Monthly Newspaper • DIOCESE OF BRIDGEPORT

May 11, 2020

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In the joy of Easter, I wish to announce the good news that in consultation with the pastors of the Diocese, we will be able to begin the outdoor public celebration of Mass on May 21, the Ascension of our Lord. This is the first step in a process that will remain consistent with Governor Ned Lamont’s call for the gradual reopening of the state in a way that safeguards public health and safety. It is my hope that the reopening of our churches, which represents phase two in our planning process, may be possible soon.

Before I outline some of the proposed details for the first phase of plan, I wish to express my sincere thanks for your patience, perseverance and fidelity during this most difficult time, when public Masses were suspended. While it has been a great sacrifice for all of us, especially those who have watched a relative or friend fall ill, buried a loved one or remained in isolation and even fear, I believe that observing the state’s shelter at home order has saved many lives. On behalf of all priests of the diocese, permit me to say how much we have missed you and look forward to welcoming you back home to your parish homes.

We have also been reminded that in our darkest hour, the Lord did not abandon us.

Our planning process assumes what most health experts have told us that the threat of the COVID-19 virus will be with us for some time. Whatever we plan must avoid a possible relapse in the progress we have made to eradicate this silent killer from our midst. As a result, we will move forward in a gradual, systematic and responsible manner to resume public worship safeguarding the health and safety of our clergy and faithful.

Further, the obligation to attend Sunday Mass will remain dispensed for the time being while we slowly resume the public celebration of Mass. This is recognition of the fact that seating will initially be limited at each celebration of Mass due to the state’s requirements for social distancing and other health mandates. It also recognizes that the elderly, who are most vulnerable, should consider remaining sheltered at home for the time being. For this reason, my hope is that each parish will continue to live stream the celebration of Mass while public worship slowly resumes.

The first phase in our plan to resume the celebration of Mass with the faithful is optional in nature and will remain in effect until Church buildings and other indoor venues can be safely reopened for worship. For those parishes that wish to offer Mass outdoors, one of two possible formats can be used. The first format will allow those who attend to be seated on chairs that will be arranged with proper social distancing. Individual outdoor seating up to 50 people. The second format will allow those who attend Mass to remain seated in their cars. The number of cars that can participate in an outdoor Mass will depend upon the size of the parking lot, the need to distance cars six feet apart from each other and allow for the safe exit of any car in case of an emergency. The outdoor venue and format for Mass will be designated by each pastor.

In order to ensure an orderly process for the celebration of Mass outdoors, a series of guidelines have been established that details many of the concerns that need to be addressed, including the use of a parish reservation system either online or over the phone for each Mass, the creation of detailed norms for the distribution of Holy Communion in a safe manner and other liturgical considerations. These norms will be posted on our diocesan website and I invite you to read them at your convenience. In addition, I ask that you consult your parish website for more detailed information about your parish’s potential participation in this first phase of planning.

Finally, I have asked each pastor to draft a parish plan for this first phase of planning to ensure that the particular needs of his parish are properly addressed. The guiding principle behind all such planning is to ensure the safety and health of our faithful and clergy, while preserving the sacredness of our liturgy and worship.

As we take this first, hopeful step forward, I pray that the Lord Jesus will continue to bless you and your families in this time of enduring challenge. Let us look forward in joy and gratitude to worship and to celebrate our Lord’s blessings once again together as a family of faith.

Sincerely yours in Christ,


Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano
Bishop of Bridgeport

 

General Guidelines for the Resumption of Public Mass
Guidelines for the Celebration of Mass Outdoors
Guidelines for the Reception of Communion

BRIDGPEORT—“How do we un-trouble our hearts?” Bishop Frank J. Caggiano asked in his homily for the Fifth Sunday of Easter.

In the live-streamed Mass from the Catholic Center chapel Bishop Caggiano reflected on the Gospel of John (14: 1-2) in which Jesus comforts his disciples who are confused and uncertain. Thomas asks him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?”

Confessing that he is a “worrier,” the Bishop began his homily by nothing that the fear and uncertainty resulting from the pandemic have “caused many of us to have a troubled heart.”

“It is fair to say that given the terrible circumstances we are living, we are worried about the unknown, worried about employment and where the money will come from, worried about our health and our loved ones, worried about the elderly we love so dearly, and worried what the new normal will be.”

The Bishop said that even with the best of intentions we tend to get caught up in our own worries. We try to control things and have them our own way, but that only leads to more anxiety.

The Bishop said that the answer to soothing an un-troubled heart “is staring us right in the face.”

“Jesus says, I am the way, I am the path, I am the one who loves you more than you love yourself. I’m the one who has the answers. I can see the end of the journey while you cannot.

Jesus set the example, the Bishop said. “He did not occupy himself with his own desires and plans… It was all about trusting in the father.”

Emptying ourselves of our own concerns and being of service to others is a way to escape our own worries and do the will of the Lord, the Bishop said.

“The gospel encourages us to get out of ourselves. Jesus ‘s way was not to spend time on what I want, but what my neighbor needs. His entire ministry was directed to those around him,” the Bishop said, adding that he walked among the people and shared their lives.

“I would like to suggest that in times when we are consumed, when we are worried or anxious, the answer is to imitate Our Lord. To look into the faces of those around us, and busy ourselves with their needs and concerns.”

Jesus invites us to look into the faces of the people who share our lives, he said.

“Let’s ’s look at them right now and see in them the invitation of Christ, to give ourselves to them, and perhaps that’s the way to have an un-troubled heart.”

To join in the Bishop’s Sunday Mass, live-streamed weekly, click this link or visit the YouTube Mass Playlist.

STAMFORD—Bishop Frank J. Caggiano and Rabbi Jay TelRav of Temple Sinai in Stamford, delivered some memorable and inspiring breakfast conversation at this morning’s Celebrity Breakfast to benefit New Covenant Center in Stamford.

An estimated 700 guests went online to join the “virtual” breakfast that was live-streamed courtesy of NBC studios in Stamford.

Seated at an anchor desk usually reserved for sports analysis the Bishop and the Rabbi reflected on profound questions including the impact of the pandemic on faith, the mystery of evil and the unprecedented challenges faced by so many during the crisis.

In his introductory remarks, Mike Donoghue, newly named executive director of Catholic Charities, said that those who missed the breakfast live-stream can watch it online (www.newcovenantcenter.org), and that there’s still time to make a donation to help New Covenant Center reach its $150,000 goal to help feed the hungry, homeless and growing number of unemployed in the Stamford area.

“I’m proud of our work here at New Covenant Center, an interfaith project with many different religions working together helping our neighbors in need.”

Donoughue said that NCC is open 365 days a year and depends on the generosity of 800 volunteers. He said he was grateful to the NCC staff “who are running into the fire every day to help the most vulnerable while most of us are sequestered at home.”

The Bishop began the conversation by thanking Rabbi TelRav and the congregation of Temple Sinai for their long-time service to New Covenant Center through preparation of monthly meals and for preparing and serving the meal on Christmas day.

He and the Rabbi then traded thoughts on spiritual challenges raised by the pandemic and the need to engage young people in their faith traditions.

“There are more questions than answers now on most people’s minds because of the uncertainties we live with. The old normal is gone,” said the Bishop noting that that suffering and death has caused people to re-examine their own lives.

Rabbi TelRav agreed, “There aren’t going to be satisfying answers,” but he added that the pandemic has led people to search for new and deeper meaning in their lives.

“Where is God in all of this, where do I see his face, his presence,” Bishop Caggiano said that people have ask him. “It’s a question that provokes us to look deeply into our own hearts. We all believe god does not abandon his people in times of challenge.”

Noting that the pandemic has leveled everyone’s sense of security, the Rabbi said, “To a large extent it’s an absolute shock to realize that I too am a have-not… This horrendously bad situation teaches us to make the most of meaning.”

Rabbi TelRav said that he has seen a remarkable translation of biblical teachings put into action in the last couple of months as people of all faiths reach out to help each other.

Both religious leaders discussed the difficulty of temporarily being unable to conduct public services where people can worship together.

The Rabbi said the fact that people haven’t been gathering in the synagogue is “a reminder that we are all subject to a system more powerful than what we thought we could control.” He said that social media has been helpful, but that people long for the richness of personal relationships.

“We have private prayers but we want communal prayer in both our traditions,” added the Bishop, who noted that the diocese is planning a phased-in return to public worship, which fulfills “the human desire to be one with God and one with each other.”

The Bishop said he was heartened by the desire of young people to serve, but that organized religions have often “failed to give a compelling reason for young people to be part of a community of faith.”

The Rabbi added that young people tend to break away and rebel, but that the pandemic may lead them to appreciate their faith. “This might be the sea change that helps our young people see what our traditions have to offer—messages that stand the test of tradition.”

John Gutman, executive director of New Covenant Center, said that since the onset of the pandemic, NCC has gone from serving 175 meals a day to 700 to those “who are hungry, homeless and jobless.

In addition to serving a growing number of hungry, NCC has also had to move much of its operations outside the building in order to safeguard the health of guests and staff, he said.

However, he said that social distancing and the need to wear masks is part of the reality of the need to “create a safe environment while serving those in need.”

During the virtual breakfast the New Covenant Center “Founders Award” was presented to Sally Kandel Kelman of Stamford , a long-time NCC volunteer and board member, and a member of the of Temple Sinai congregation.

In his greetings to the breakfast Stamford Mayor David Martin said that as a Mayor he has been blessed with “strong, well-run charities serving people in the community, who can thing we in government can’t do.”

He said that New Covenant Center “is among the very best During this crisis they have done more with less than almost anyone else,” meeting increased demand at a difficult time. “NCC has made a huge difference in our community.”

To make an online donation, visit www.newcovenantcenter.org/donate. Checks can also be mailed to: New Covenant Center, 174 Richmond Hill Ave., Stamford, CT 06902. For more information, contact Leisa Hinds-Simpson lhinds-simpson@ccfc-ct.org or 203.964.8228

DANBURY—Two talented Immaculate students received Connecticut Association of Schools 2019-20 Outstanding Arts Awards: Elizabeth Flaherty ‘20 of New Fairfield for performing arts and Elizabeth Varda ‘20 of Brookfield for visual arts. Award recipients are those who “excel in the performing and visual arts…and demonstrate scholarship and leadership.”

Elizabeth Flaherty’s teacher has described her as creative and hardworking, and believes that with her abilities she will go on to do great things “Elizabeth is a strong, confident musician which allows her to lead both musically and logistically. She is a leader of the a capella club and a regular performer in all the community outreach events our choir is a part of, she sings in the diocesan youth choir and she is a lead in our musical, “Once On This Island,” said Mrs. Jen Doherty, IHS Choir Director.

Elizabeth will attend the University of Connecticut as a Digital Film/Video Production Major. Besides singing, she plays the piano and trumpet. A cast member of Immaculate’s musical productions of “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Grease” and “Pippin,” Elizabeth was cast as Mama Euralie in “Once On This Island” this year. “I also played Gerry Dunbar in Immaculate’s drama production of “Play On!” earlier this year, and I am co-president of Immaculate’s a capella club, a member of the honors chorus and a member of Tri-M Music Honor Society,” she noted. “During my time at Immaculate I have developed myself both musically and academically through the help of my fellow performers and friends, but also through the guidance of teachers and staff. Without these people I’m sure I would not be the person I am today and I would be dearly missing their presence in my life,” Elizabeth said.

IHS art teacher Leslie Quinn said that Elizabeth “Lizzie” Varda received the award for visual arts because, in part, of her willingness to expand her skills over her four years at Immaculate High School. “In those four years she has evolved into an accomplished artist. Lizzie has the ability to not only make art but to write and talk about her work, be it ideas, processes and use of materials. She gives the viewer a window into what goes into her artwork,” said Mrs. Quinn. She noted that while Lizzie is proficient in many areas, her strong talent is costume design. Lizzie designs costumes for Immaculate’s Spring Musicals and regional theater, receiving a Halo award last year for costume design for Immaculate’s production of “Pippin.” “Lizzie brings vitality and humor to the classroom and her extracurricular and work commitments seem effortless, the mark of a true professional,” Mrs. Quinn noted.

Lizzie is also still deciding which college she will attend, but she plans to be a fashion design major. “I do a lot of fashion designs and pattern designs for textiles so that is my favorite art to do. I love to use and experiment with different materials like oil paint, wallpaper and more. I have done the costumes for IHS theatrical productions of “Twelfth Night,” “Grease,” “Our Town,” “Pippin,” “Play On!” and “Once On This Island”,” she said, adding: “I have been doing art at IHS my teachers, who believed in me and my art.”

Immaculate High School encourages students to find success in academics, athletics, fine arts and clubs and is ranked in the top ten of all Catholic high schools in the State of Connecticut by NICHE. One of the more affordable private high schools, Immaculate High School is also among the highest ranked Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport and continues to attain the highest SAT scores in the Diocese. Currently students are attending full days of virtual school with their regular schedules and access to guidance counselors, the school nurse and the school therapist. Immaculate High School students, a representation of area public, private and Catholic schools, seek academic challenges, discover leadership and engage in progressive learning opportunities and have high success rates: 100% of the Class of 2019 were accepted to top colleges and universities and were awarded college scholarships and grants totaling $27 million.

In addition to a college-preparatory academic program that offers over 33 Advanced Placement classes and a STEAM curriculum featuring advanced technology, a CISCO certification program, renovated science labs and engineering classes and a Certified Nursing Associate program, Immaculate High School has an award-winning Fine Arts program, a student career internship program, athletic teams that have won SWC and State Championships, 44 clubs and a Campus Ministry and community service program that instills faith, compassion and reverence for others. Immaculate High School, founded in 1962, is a private, non-profit Catholic college-preparatory institution serving students from 28 communities in Connecticut and New York.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY—The coronavirus pandemic has seen many parishes stepping up to give back in any way they can. One way is through drive-through food drives, where food can be collected for donation in a safe and sanitary way.

The first weekend of May, both St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Trumbull and Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Wilton conducted drive through food drives, both of which were huge successes.

St. Catherine of Siena’s Social Justice and Charitable Outreach Group raised more than $3,000 in cash and food donations from nearly 100 feet of tables. Donations were delivered to the Trumbull Food Pantry, Blessed Sacrament Parish and the Thomas Merton Center, all of which are experiencing extraordinary need right now.

Father Joseph Marcello, pastor, reflected that “Many families who came to help were wearing masks. They had big smiles under their masks, which I could see in their eyes, as they were here because they wanted to help. It’s attributed to St. Francis of Assisi that it is in giving that we receive.” He continued: “We don’t know who the recipients of this food will be other than that they are hungry and in need. And we know that not one of those cars would have come on that day had it not been for Jesus Christ, who came so that we might have life, and have it more abundantly.”

Our Lady of Fatima Parish’s event collected much needed food and supplies for the Thomas Merton Center. The event raised well over $9,000 in donations, including grocery store gift cards.

Father Reginald Norman, pastor, said he was “deeply moved by the success of this event.” Volunteers filled two vans with food before donations were even counted. Father Reggie guessed donations would come in at well over $3,000—and he was right!

“The drive was a great success because we came together and worked as a community with one common goal: feed those less fortunate than us.,” said Father Reggie, who said his parishioners did a great job spreading the word on social media and through word of mouth. “I believe that people want to help but don’t always know how to and when given an opportunity, they rise to the occasion. We are blessed and the people in my community are very generous.”

Catholic Charities of Fairfield County expressed their sincere gratitude for all donations to the Thomas Merton Center, which is working hard to protect the poor and vulnerable in the community who have been hit hardest by this crisis.

At this time, the Thomas Merton Center remains open. The soup kitchen is serving take-out breakfast and lunch six days a week and providing 300 meals per day, which is a 40 percent increase. The food pantry is providing 10 days of groceries for low-income families and distributing excess food when available to local shelters and churches. The Merton Center is also preparing and sharing meals with surrounding services.

(For more information on Catholic Charities of Fairfield County and their many services, or if you are interested in donating, visit: ccfairfield.org.)

By Elizabeth Clyons

BRIDGEPORT—In a video sent out to all schools, parents and teachers today (May 6), Dr. Steven Cheeseman, Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport, announced that distance learning will remain in effect until the close of the school year.

“I come to you with an announcement that many of us felt was inevitable but one we were hoping we didn’t have to make,” said Dr. Cheeseman. ”In keeping with the announcement made by Governor Lamont, our Catholic schools will continue distance learning throughout the remainder of the school year.”

Dr. Cheeseman said it was a difficult decision to make, but one that has been made easier by the cooperation and commitment of teachers, parents and students to continue to Catholic education during the pandemic.
On March 13, Dr. Cheeseman announced that all diocesan sponsored Catholic elementary and high schools would end in-school classes effective March 13 and begin implementing their distance learning instructional plan on Monday, March 16.

Dr. Cheeseman started by thanking teachers for their hard work in making a “mostly seamless” transition to distance learning for the 7,500 students who had been studying in the 30 different school buildings sponsored by the diocese.

Referring to the “herculean effort” of teachers Dr. Cheeseman said that spent hundreds of hours in professional development and online learning communities to make the successful transition.

Speaking directly to students scheduled to graduate from Catholic elementary and high schools in June, Dr. Cheeseman said “This year is certainly memorable, but is not one you deserve. So many milestone you have looked forward to have been affected,” pledging to find a way at a later date to express pride in their achievements.

Dr. Cheeseman said the sudden move to online learning has been a “learning curve” for everyone including parents. He thanked them for their patience and commitment to Catholic education.

“The closure of 30 schools buildings across diocese was never something we imagined we would have to do,” Dr. Cheesman said. “We will continue to work as hard as we can to ensure our teachers have the resources they need so our young people an receive a quality Catholic education.”

He encouraged parents to reach out to schools or use the online help desks if they have any questions.

Dr. Cheesman said that if anything, the pandemic has demonstrated that Catholic education is not simply “defined by buildings that house us but by parents teacher, administrators and students who together create a culture that informs the mind, forms the heart, and transforms the lives of all those lucky enough to be a part of it.”

He said that over the coming months he and his team would be working to ensure a safe, clean and nurturing school environment in the Fall.

For more information on Catholic schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport, click here.

STAMFORD—Catholic Charities will bring the Bishop and the Rabbi together—you’ll have to bring your own coffee and bagels!

That’s the plan for this Friday’s Virtual Celebrity Breakfast to benefit the emergency needs of New Covenant Center (NCC) in Stamford. The breakfast will be live-streamed from 8 am to 9 am with guests logging in to www.NewCovenantCenter.org/virtual-celebrity-breakfast from your laptop, computer, tablet or cell phone in the comfort of your home. All are welcome!

While guests will miss the in-person camaraderie and the good food that accompany the annual NCC celebrity breakfasts, they will be asked to give generously online to support NCC’s work during the COVID-19 crisis. As Stamford’s only soup kitchen, NCC is feeding the hungry, homeless, and working poor of the area seven days a week.

The main course for the breakfast promises to be a lively and inspiring conversation between Most Rev. Frank J. Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport, and Rabbi Jay TelRav of Temple Sinai in Stamford. The bishop and Rabbi will discuss how people of faith are dealing with this crisis and other critical topics.

They will also field online questions. (Anyone who would like to present a question to be included in the discussion can send them to John Gutman at jgutman@ccfc-ct.org.) Also, Stamford Mayor David Martin will make a cameo appearance with a special COVID-19 update for the Stamford region.

“The discussion between the bishop and the Rabbi will be very interesting, and it is a great time for diverse faiths to come together to help those in need during the pandemic. New Covenant Center has seen skyrocketing demand for food as we now serve 500-700 meals per day up from 175 per day last year,” said Mike Donoghue, new Executive Director of Catholic Charities.

Donoghue said that in order to meet rising demands, Catholic Charities and parishes in the Stamford area, have been holding “drive-through” food drives with more planned for the coming weeks, and that New Covenant Center urgently needs financial support.

To ensure everyone’s safety during the pandemic when guests cannot sit together communally, New Covenant Center has implemented a new strategy of bringing food to the hungry. Lunch and dinner are served Monday through Saturday and one meal on Sunday in a “take-out” format. The program now also prepares meals for the clients of several other Stamford non-profits including Pacific House and Inspirica, Building One Community, and ARI Center for Special Needs.

“The Covid-19 crisis has placed New Covenant Center as the charitable food insecurity leader of the crisis’ response in the Lower Fairfield County area,” said New Covenant Center Executive Director John Gutman. “The Center has been handing out much needed food to the unemployed, the homeless, and local families. This is especially true now that many of our area’s citizens have lost their jobs.”

The mission of New Covenant Center is to provide a nutritious meal to all those who are hungry. This is accomplished from their 8,000 sq. ft. facility located at 174 Richmond Hill in Stamford. The facility includes an efficient and modern kitchen, a welcoming dining area, expanded food storage area and refrigeration, a spacious food pantry area and additional space for other services.

Founded 41 years ago, New Covenant Center is an inter-faith project of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, serving the homeless, elderly, disabled, working poor and children.

“As the mission states, ‘No one is turned away. There are no requirements to enter the New Covenant Center doors, except a mutual exchange of respect and dignity.’ These words have never been more true as they are now.” States event co-chair Nils Dahl. “While the number of volunteers helping us on-site have declined due to safety precautions, there has been a huge increase in the number of people and companies donating food and meals to New Covenant Center’s soup kitchen and food pantry to help feed the most vulnerable in our area.”

Sarita Hanley, who is serving event co-chair, said that available resources remain stretched to the limits during the pandemic. “This program is a primary utility for the City of Stamford and remains the largest combined daily soup kitchen and food pantry serving Stamford and the surrounding Lower Fairfield County communities. It is the reason why donations are so very much needed at this time.”

Please consider making an online donation at www.newcovenantcenter.org/donate. Checks can also be mailed to: New Covenant Center, 174 Richmond Hill Ave., Stamford, CT 06902. For more information, contact Leisa Hinds-Simpson lhinds-simpson@ccfc-ct.org or 203.964.8228

Click here for New Covenant Center Virtual Event Invitation

DANBURY—Immaculate High School wishes to thank everyone, including the wonderful families, alumni and faculty/staff, who donated to our Stuff the Van event on Sunday. Because of you Immaculate was able to deliver two full vans of food to Jericho Partnership!

Even the Danbury Fire Department came by in their big red engine to drop off items! “We are so grateful and encouraged by the way the community is rallying together to serve and support our neighbors in need,” said Jericho President Carrie L. Amos. “Their actions demonstrate that they care deeply about what our at-risk community, which grows every day, is experiencing during this really difficult season. We’ve always said ‘we are better together’ and we’re seeing it now in a really significant way.”

Thank you to everyone who has the grace and faith to help others during this time of fear and need, including Immaculate seniors who would have been attending prom this past weekend, but instead made signs of gratitude for food drive donors!

WILTON—At a time when many preschools have been shuttered due to COVID-19, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Academy in Wilton has successfully completed eight weeks of distance learning for its 3- and 4-year-old preschool students.

Pre-K 3-4’s teacher Rebecca Gammardella, known as “Mrs. Della” within the OLFCA school community, is keenly aware that the COVID-19 pandemic arrived at a critical time in the children’s learning. At that point in the school year, students are recognizing letters and numbers, developing fine and gross motor skills, taking more responsibility in the classroom and following multi-step directions—skills that are so important when the children start kindergarten.

Gammardella knew that when the pandemic forced schools to close, she would need to find a way to keep the learning momentum going and deliver a classroom experience to each child’s home. She developed a thoughtful plan to transition her preschool students to a distance learning program.

A key component of her plan involved the creation of carefully curated “activity bags” filled with “academic skill keepers” and hands-on “craftivities.” Each weekly bag contains five individual daily packets containing all the supplies needed for each school day, which might include patterns, construction paper, glue, paint, beads, or any other needed items. The “theme” for each week varies. Gammardella estimates she spends 10-12 hours per week preparing and organizing the bags, which are then picked up each week by parents/caregivers.

Another key component of the distance learning program is a dedicated YouTube channel Gammardella created, where she broadcasts a prerecorded morning “meeting” each day. It might begin like any other morning classroom routine, with greetings, news, a daily calendar and a letter/number flashcard review. The video also includes her reading a story to the class, which pairs with an activity from the daily packet they received.

Gammardella warns that distance learning for a preschool child simply won’t be effective if it is limited to an iPad or a Chromebook. For preschool children, she believes, the hands-on activities are extremely important. “Whether it’s the feel of scissors cutting through paper or a crayon on the paper, applying glue neatly, or keeping their activity supplies in order, it’s important for a pre-k student to keep working on these skills,” she emphasized.

Equally important for preschoolers is social skill development. With assistance from parents/caregivers, Gammardella conducts Zoom sessions (live online meetings) so students can continue to see her and their peers. However, she sees the limitations of the Zoom platform for this age group (especially when it comes to “one at a time” speaking) and has found it works best in small groups. While not part of instruction per se, Zoom allows for some degree of personal interaction. “I can tell them how much I miss them. I miss their laughter, and seeing their families too,” she said.

Those families have always played an important role in the preschool even before COVID-19 (“the Fatima Family” is a phrase often heard within the school community), but Gammardella says their involvement has been critical to the success of OLFCA’s pre-k distance program. In addition to picking up the weekly activity bags, parents/caregivers are needed to help the children plan out their workspace and time, and supervise some activities as appropriate for the age.

Gammardella believes the “bond” between the student, families and the school is the single most important factor in the success of any preschool distance learning program. Without that school-home connection and excellent communication, she believes, any attempt at distance learning will be far less productive.

While distance learning has been an adjustment for all age groups, Gammardella believes it is especially challenging for preschool programs, where the curriculum includes fine and gross motor development, spatial awareness, self-regulation and social interaction. Importantly, she feels the OLFCA program did not lose “precious time” in the chaotic early days of the COVID-19 pandemic; the continuity of learning has been successfully maintained for the preschool students. Even more importantly, Gammardella points out the school is well positioned for the fall, when there is lingering uncertainty about many preschools’ ability to reopen.

In an innovative way of showcasing the program, OLFCA is offering preschoolers a complimentary week of distance learning from now until June 1, 2020. Interested parents may contact the school for more information.

About Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Academy
Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Academy is co-educational, National Blue Ribbon School offering a Pre-Kindergarten 3 through Grade 8 education model. The Academy’s Personalized Approach to Learning blends classroom and small group instruction with technology to provide learning that is fluid and flexible based on the ability of the student. Multi-age, child-centered classrooms offer continuous learning. OLFCA’s faith-based environment nurtures the whole child and emphasizes strong moral values and respect for self and others. The Academy is located at 225 Danbury Road, Wilton CT 06897. For more information, contact Principal Stanley Steele at ssteele@olfcatholic.org or visit www.olfacademy.org.

TRUMBULL—On a picture-perfect spring morning, an enthusiastic crew of volunteers from the Parish of St. Catherine of Siena wearing face masks and gloves welcomed more than 150 cars to a contact-free Drive Through Food Drive to support the Trumbull Food Pantry, Blessed Sacrament Parish in Bridgeport, and the Thomas Merton Center in Bridgeport, all of which are experiencing extraordinary need right now.  Through the generosity of St. Catherine’s parishioners, the May 2 effort raised more than $3,000 in cash donations and food donations overflowed from nearly 100 feet of tables.

“Demand for food at Thomas Merton Center has skyrocketed since the COVID-19 crisis began, which is now serving nearly 500 meals daily, up from 150 per day at this time last year. Some of these meals we are delivering to clients of other Bridgeport non-profits, including homeless shelters who don’t have food resources,” said Mike Donoghue, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Fairfield County.  Mr. Donoghue extends a very special thank you to Dan & Kelly Murphy, Parishioners of St. Catherine’s who organized the event, the many volunteers who helped remove food from cars and deliver it to the food banks, as well as everyone who drove through with donations on Saturday.

Father Joseph Marcello, Pastor of St. Catherine of Siena, reflects that “Many families who came to help were wearing masks.  They had big smiles under their masks, which I could see in their eyes, as they were here because they wanted to help.  It’s attributed to St. Francis of Assisi that it is in giving that we receive.” He continues: “We don’t know who the recipients of this food will be other than that they are hungry and in need.  And we know that not one of those cars would have come on that day had it not been for Jesus Christ, who came so that we might have life, and have it more abundantly.”

Mr. Donoghue noted that “Our clients are hourly workers who have recently lost jobs, immigrants, homeless, or mentally ill individuals struggling to make ends meet. Please know how grateful we are for your help and support! Catholic Charities programs are a partnership with all the generous and caring faithful of our Diocese. Thank you for helping us treat every human being, especially those who are most vulnerable, with the love and respect they deserve!”

If you missed the event and would like to help, financial contributions for this purpose are still welcome. The Social Justice and Charitable Outreach Committee is using all financial donations to buy food which will be divided equally among the three food banks. Please mail your contribution for this purpose to 220 Shelton Road, Trumbull CT 06611.  Make your check payable to St. Catherine of Siena, and write FOOD BANKS in the memo line.

Plans for a second event are already in the works.

The Drive Through Food Drive was organized by St. Catherine’s Social Justice and Charitable Outreach team, led by Salvatore Spadaccino. Other initiatives that the Social Justice & Charitable Outreach Team has worked on include: toiletry drive, school backpack drive, Thanksgiving food drive, annual Parish giving tree, pro-life baby shower, and more. For more information on the Social Justice and Charitable Outreach ministry at St. Catherine of Siena in Trumbull, contact Salvatore Spadaccino, Coordinator for Social Justice and Charitable Outreach, at caritas@stcatherinetrumbull.com.

The Parish of Saint Catherine of Siena warmly welcomes anyone who is new to our area, anyone who is searching for the truth, or anyone who is looking for a spiritual home. We are joyfully and faithfully Roman Catholic in belief and practice— a community of faith, worship, service, and formation—and with open hearts we invite all our brothers and sisters into a living and saving friendship with the Lord Jesus Christ, in the communion of His One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.  We are conveniently located at 220 Shelton Road in the Nichols area of Trumbull.

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, new needs have arisen for current and future Fairfield students in the areas of critical financial aid, student wellness, academic response, and spirituality and guidance.

Each of these areas focuses on maintaining academic continuity and the vibrancy of the Fairfield student body as well as ensuring that all students, including the class of 2024, begin and finish their academic journeys.

FAIRFIELD—In an effort to respond to the new and urgent needs of students and their families that have arisen amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Fairfield University has launched the Stags for Stags strategic philanthropic initiative, encouraging generosity to support students in the areas of critical financial aid, student wellness and resiliency, academic response and preparedness, and spirituality and guidance. Each of these areas focuses on maintaining academic continuity and the vibrancy of the Fairfield student body, as well as ensuring that all students, including the class of 2024, begin and finish their academic journeys. Support for the Stags for Stags initiative will also be the focus of the University’s upcoming STAGiving Day on Thursday, June 4.

Many Fairfield University families are facing pandemic-related financial circumstances that could prevent the continuation or start of their educational journeys in the fall. In addition, there is urgency to maintain the health and wellness of every student and assure that academic resources in and outside the classroom are fully accessible to all.

“Each day, I talk to families who have experienced the loss of a job or an event that pushes a Fairfield education out of reach,” explained Vice President of Enrollment Corry Unis. “Additional funds for financial aid will help so many deserving and talented students overcome this obstacle.”

Staying true to Fairfield’s Jesuit values, the University is also aiming to assure support for spiritual guidance and reflection that will provide the strength and resolve to carry students through their days, studies, and service to others. “It is essential that all students, especially first-year students unfamiliar with campus can seek the guidance, support, comfort, and sense of community through God that is a hallmark of the Fairfield experience,” said Rev. Gerry Blaszczak, S.J., vice president for Mission and Ministry.

Additionally, support from the community is paramount to enhance the educational experience of Fairfield student-athletes. Fairfield Athletics is in the planning process for varsity programs to return to campus to compete at the highest level. Fairfield’s Director of Athletics Paul Schlickmann explained, “Support towards the operational needs of each program provides Stag student-athletes with the requisite resources to compete for championships and supplement scholarship allocations that can be used to help them get through these uncertain times.”

Many members of the Fairfield family have already given support or expressed interest in helping current and incoming students— a testament to the Stag community’s commitment to others. The Stags for Stags initiative is a way of sharing Fairfield students’ most urgent needs with community members seeking ways to provide philanthropic support.

“Stags for Stags is an urgent call to action,” says Fairfield’s Vice President for University Advancement Wally Halas. “It is a meaningful moment when our community will once again come together guided by our Jesuit values and belief, that providing an education is and always will be the way we can improve our world.”

To support Fairfield students’ immediate needs or to learn more about the University’s Stags for Stags initiative, visit fairfield.edu/stagsforstags.

Media Contact: Susan Cipollaro, scipollaro@fairfield.edu, 203.254.4000 ext. 2726

Fairfield University is a modern, Jesuit Catholic university rooted in one of the world’s oldest intellectual and spiritual traditions. More than 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students from the U.S. and across the globe are pursuing degrees in the University’s five schools. Fairfield embraces a liberal humanistic approach to education, encouraging critical thinking, cultivating free and open inquiry, and fostering ethical and religious values. The University is located on a stunning 200-acre campus on the scenic Connecticut coast just an hour from New York City.

(Editor’s note: Priests of the Diocese of Bridgeport may be separated from their flocks physically, but they are connected to them spiritually during this unprecedented crisis. Their message is a simple one: Christ is with us even in the storm … and he will never leave us. Here are some of their stories.)

Despite COVID-19, a parish stays connected

STAMFORD—As the coronavirus crisis was intensifying, Father John Connaughton, pastor of the Parish of St. Cecilia-St. Gabriel, received a call, asking him to anoint a parishioner suffering from COVID-19. When he arrived at Stamford Hospital, the nurse helped him put on a face shield, a mask, gloves and a protective garment, and only then did he enter the room to anoint the man, who was unconscious.

Almost overnight, his ministry changed. Other priests have had to stand by the door to pray with sick and dying patients, and many have only been able to talk with them by phone. When he returned to the hospital a few days later, Father Connaughton was not allowed to administer the anointing of the sick, and he expects he may not be allowed to do so again until the pandemic ends.

“Our biggest challenge has been trying to remain connected with people in the parish since there has been a forcible separation and no public Mass,” he said. “I have been trying to learn from the example of other priests how to maintain that connection as much as I can.”

To stay in contact with his people, he regularly puts spiritual reflections on the parish website, live-streams Mass and prayer services, and sends updates by email and text-message. He also leaves the church open during the week and on weekends so the faithful can visit and pray before the Blessed Sacrament. Baptisms and weddings have been postponed, and graveside services have replaced funeral Masses, with the expectation of holding a memorial service when the restrictions are lifted. The sense of loss is great.

“It is a painful thing for people not to be able to receive the sacraments and not come together in community and worship God,” he said. “We are no longer talking about how many people are missing Mass, but how much they are missing Mass. That is one consolation — to hear them express their sadness at not being able to come to Mass.”

At St. Cecilia-St. Gabriel, he emphasizes the importance of coming together to worship God and of developing a relationship with the Lord, two practices that complement each other.

“Part of the suffering right now is that we are not able to do that in a way we are accustomed to,” he said.

A regular part of the pastoral ministry for Father Connaughton and Father Mariusz Olbrys, the parochial vicar, is to reach out to their flock to see how people are doing.

“We are calling to check up on them. We have a big list, so it will take us a while to do it, but I’ve already received messages from parishioners expressing their gratitude for the calls,” he said. “It means a lot to them right now.”

Praying for his parish before the Blessed Sacrament

STRATFORD—On many mornings, Father Peter Adamski, pastor of St. James Church, finds himself on his knees at 3 am in the rectory chapel, praying before the exposed Blessed Sacrament and asking for the graces his parishioners need to confront the coronavirus crisis.

He also shares Jesus with his parishioners, who are invited to drive through the church parking lot and pray to the Blessed Sacrament, which is visible in the monstrance in a rectory window.

For Father, it is an enduring reminder that God is always with us.

“I know the Lord is not abandoning us,” Father Adamski says. “He can never do that because he is pure love.”

That fundamental fact of faith has made some of the challenges more bearable. Since the restrictions on public gathering were instituted, he has had several deaths in the parish. The first was a dear friend, who was in Bridgeport Hospital. Father was able to hear his confession, give him Viaticum and the Apostolic Blessing. A week later, he died. At the time, he said a funeral liturgy without a public Mass and later performed a graveside service at the cemetery.

There is an intense longing among his parishioners for a return to community worship and the sacraments.

“We have been getting lots of calls from people who have a longing in their hearts to be back in the community and to be able to receive the Blessed Sacrament,” he said. “Some of them are elderly and cannot come to confession.”

He explains to them how to make an Act of Spiritual Communion and an Act of Perfect Contrition, which requires that the penitent promise to go to confession as soon as possible.

“This practice has been done for centuries,” Father said. “You must promise the Lord that you will go to confession after this pandemic is over, when we can gather in the church again.”

The last time Father celebrated Mass publicly, he was able to distribute 500 holy cards with a prayer for protection against the coronavirus. They had just arrived that Friday. For him, the timing was providential.

When asked about the pandemic by anxious parishioners, Father says, “God is not punishing us. He is not a vengeful God. He is a merciful and loving God, and we need to turn to him now more than ever. We need to pray like we’ve never prayed before and ask him for his help and his peace.”

‘This is a time to make us stronger’

STAMFORD— God works all things for the good for our salvation … and all things include the coronavirus, Father Joseph Gill, parochial vicar at the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist, says.

“Everything that God allows is an opportunity to turn back to him with greater fervor. Our lives and our futures are in his hands, and that is something we can often forget in our technological world,” Father said. “Our lives and our world are in the hands of God, and nothing happens without his permissive will.”

Father has been encouraging people to make the best use of their time, and that means prayer, fasting, spiritual reading and growing closer to their families … rather than binge-watching Netflix.

“It should be a time that will make us stronger and a time to turn in on ourselves. People should reflect on their lives,” he says. “I’ve seen incredible spiritual proof that people are coming back to the faith after many years.”

He sees evidence in the confessions that he has heard on the front steps of the Basilica for several hours on Thursdays and Saturdays. Masses are live-streamed daily and on Sundays, which can have as many as 500 people watching from as far away as Ireland and Sri Lanka.

“One thing I have found very edifying is the Eucharistic hunger of people. They are asking, ‘When can we have Mass again? When can we have the Eucharist?’” he said. “I pray that their hunger is stoked and that it can grow.”

It is also a time for priests to reflect, he said.

“All my ministry ultimately flows from my union with Christ, so fasting and prayer for my parishioners is the greatest act that I can do,” he said. “It involves asking for God’s grace upon my people, so I have been spending a lot of extra time in prayer to bring God to the people. I have been getting myself out of the way to allow God to do his work.”

BROOKFIELD—St. Joseph Catholic Academy of Brookfield will close its doors at the end of June and will not re-open for the 20-21 school year.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I must announce with tremendous regret and sadness that SJCA will be closing its doors permanently on June 30, 2020,” said David Hanley, Chairman of the St. Joseph Catholic Academy in a letter to parents. The letter was issued in conjunction with the Diocesan Office of Education after efforts to expand enrollment were unsuccessful.

“The Board, would like to convey our profound sorrow. We are deeply saddened by the reality of St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy closing, saddened for our own families and for yours and for future families who will never come to know the wonderful family that has been St. Joseph’s. Many of us have been associated with this lovely school for a decade or more, some for much, much longer.”

In his letter Hanley indicates that St. Joseph’s had approximately 160 children two years ago but was not profitable.

“Today, SJCA enrolls 66 children and, while tremendous efforts are ongoing, those efforts have not enabled us to predict a marked enrollment increase and viable budget for next year,” he said.

Hanley told parents that despite considerable efforts the school, which includes Pre-K through eighth grades, was unable to achieve a number of enrollment and financial benchmarks established by the Diocese of Bridgeport as part of an overall Strategic Educational Planning Process being undertaken in all of its schools.

“The Diocese set criteria for our enrollment and budget for next year, which would ensure our viability. Given the reality of our situation, the SJCA Board could only provide planning that forecasted continuing, significant financial loss for next year,” he said.

The planning process was launched by Bishop Frank J. Caggiano in November 2019, to address the challenges faced by Catholic schools including changing demographics, declining enrollment, Catholic identity and financial issues that have an impact on Catholic education.

Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dr. Steven Cheeseman said the bishop asked the diocesan Education Commission in collaboration with the Office of the Superintendent to undertake the process.

Since that time Since that time the five committees empowered by the commission have been meeting to look at educational models, provide leadership develop and benchmark school viability issues. In December of last year they visited schools and met with parents to discuss the benchmarks necessary for long-term sustainability.

The diocesan Education Commission is expected to issue its final report about the educational and structural models and viability of schools at the end of May.

Hanley said that while the Diocese does not plan to make formal decisions and announcements regarding elementary school closures until later this Spring, the St. Joseph’s board believed believe it is very important to provide families adequate time to make alternative plans.

Re-enrollment deposits can be transferred to another Catholic school or be reimbursed to parents. An official Student Transfer Form will be sent to parents, which enables the school to send the student’s permanent academic records to another school and will allow parents to stipulate how they want their re-enrollment deposit managed.

“We want to support your decision to provide a continuing Catholic school education for your children,” Hanley said.

Nearby schools accepting transfer deposits and applications include Sr. Gregory the Great School, 85 Great Plain Road, Danbury; St. Rose of Lima School, 42 Church Hill Road, Newtown, and St. Joseph’s School, 370 Main Street, Danbury.

WESTPORT—This past weekend, Church of the Assumption in Westport displayed washable face masks on a “giving tree” in front of the church.

Hand-sewn, washable masks were donated by members of the Filipino Community of Fairfield County, along with prayer cards for anyone who would like one.

Also included are sanitizing prep pads donated by the Knights of Columbus.

Anyone who is in need of these products are welcome to come and take them.

“What’s usually a tree filled with lights at Christmas time is now a tree hanging facemasks,” read the weekend bulletin.

“We just put up the masks this morning and already half of them are gone,” said Father Cyrus Bartolome, pastor of Church of the Assumption.

(For more information visit assumptionwestport.org.)

BRIDGEPORT—For the past few weeks, for the first time in the diocese, VIRTUS classes are being held virtually, said Erin Neil, Director of Safe Environment & Victim Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese.

It’s not business as usual, but with several construction and renovation projects along with other essential activities continuing throughout the diocese, the need for Virtus training is ongoing both during the crisis and as schools and parishes prepare for the eventual reopening of the state, she said.

As projects on church and school campuses continue with such work as painting, plumbing, roofing and cleaning, Neil said it is mandated that everyone on school or church property, must first be VIRTUS trained as part of the diocese’s Child Protection and abuse prevention program.

This innovative move to online training has also opened an opportunity for contractors on renovation projects to receive the proper training while gathered on the job site.

Neil said VIRTUS programs are designed to help prevent wrongdoing and promote “rightdoing” within religious organizations. The VIRTUS programs empower organizations and people to better control risk and improve the lives of all those who interact with the Church.

To accomplish the task of training individuals while social distancing is in effect, the Church like many organizations around the world has turned to technology and virtual meetings.

Neil and her staff have been coordinating online VIRTUS classes through Zoom to help keep projects on schedule and ready a team of volunteers eager to help in various ways throughout the diocese when activities resume.

“We are able to do the class while there are a group of contractors on a bench watching the child safety course,” said Neil, adding that this arrangement offers convenience and ensures everyone is properly trained.

Moving classes online also allows peers to take the class at the same time at home as well.

After successfully registering for a session online, the registrant receives a Zoom invitation by email with a link to click on to join the training at a certain time.

For people who don’t have access to technology, they can delay VIRTUS training to a later date. In-person classes will once again be offered when the restrictions on gatherings are lifted.

In the meantime, Zoom classes have not only offered a new way for people to participate but it has also given many a glimpse into the lives of others that they may not have had otherwise.

The surprise visit of a family member, specifically a family pet, is often a welcome and heartwarming conversation starter.

“If you see my cat in the background, don’t be alarmed, she likes to jump around and be on camera,” said Diane Scott, Safe Environment Program Assistant and a recent facilitator of a VIRTUS training session.

“I’ve never had this many people in my living room,” Scott joked, just before starting a traditional roll call of attendees. “Welcome to my home,” she said.

“We won’t make a mess,” a participant responded amid laughter from the group.

The friendly banter is a pleasant way to begin the meeting before the more serious discussions of protecting against child abuse or the abuse of vulnerable adults.

Of course, the in-person class experience is more personal and preferred, especially if a person recalls or needs to report an allegation of abuse. The Diocese has professionals on stand-by to help anyone by phone.

The course not only helps educate people about the types of behavior to look out for, but it helps attendees spread the word about resources that are available to other organizations as well. For instance, many attending the class inquired about using this program in public school systems.

This is probably the way to go forward,” Neil said, referring to offering online instruction in addition to in-person classes. “It’s a wonderful way to bring people together during this time while we are socially distant.”

The Safe Environment Office of the diocese is always available to assist anyone who is a survivor of abuse as a minor or as a vulnerable adult by a person from the Church. Contact Erin Neil, L.C.S.W, Victim Assistance Coordinator 203.650.3265 or the survivor and witness hotline at www.light-house-services.com/diobpt or 833.990.0004. To register for a VIRTUS class go to www.virtusonline.org.

By Kathy-Ann Gobin