Over the past two years of this pandemic, we’ve endured an unprecedented crisis that has touched every aspect of society, including our Diocese. Throughout these challenging times, our parishes, schools, and ministries have done heroic work accompanying and caring for the people they serve.
We recognize that these past two years have not been easy, and the uncertainty of the pandemic has exacerbated feelings of frustration and concern from people of good will around the country.
Today, peaceful, prayerful demonstrators gathered outside of the Diocesan Catholic Center to share their legitimate concerns about the Government’s recent legislative act as it pertains to Catholic and private schools. Though we did not organize and sponsor this gathering, we understand the strong feelings and appreciate the awareness our parents have brought to this important issue. We are heartened to see and hear from our parents, whose passion and devotion to Catholic education are the lifeblood of our Catholic schools.
While we are concerned about government over-reach on this issue, we have been fortunate to have a good working relationship with the government (both State and local) as well as leaders of the community and parent representatives throughout this pandemic. In this spirit, we advocate a way forward that includes dialogue, listening, mutual respect, and prayer.
At the end of the day, we believe that all parties involved, including our civic leaders and the group gathered outside the Catholic Center today, agree on one thing: our children are our number one priority, and we all want what is best for them.
As such, the Diocese would like to reiterate that it will not be lifting the mask mandate in our schools until it is legal to do so, consistent with the law, expected to be on February 28th, 2022. As we emerge from this pandemic, it will be important for us to establish the appropriate role of non-public schools in our education system, recognizing the relationship between church and state.
In objecting to the recent Department of Education letter, it is also important to note that the diocese has followed federal, state, and local health and safety guidelines throughout the pandemic in order to protect those who attend its schools and churches throughout Fairfield County.
Consistent with the urging of Pope Francis and the leadership of Bishop Frank J. Caggiano, the diocese has encouraged people to get vaccinated and to follow other public health measures in order to protect the lives of themselves, their families and others they come in contact with. The diocese has also developed policies based on the recommendations of local health providers and has followed the science in making decisions.
We recognize the intensity of feelings and on all sides of this issue, made worse by the uncertainty of the course of the pandemic. However, what should unite us is the concern for our children and for each other. We urge all to work and pray for end of pandemic and to engage in respectful civic dialogue that will reconcile our differences and help us to move forward to rebuild our lives.
For those who would like more information, we encourage you to read Dr. Cheeseman’s letter to parents from 2/9/2022: https://www.bridgeportdiocese.org/dr-steven-cheeseman-responds-to-the-state-department-of-education-letter/
