Learn about Our Lady of Aparecida Parish

Our Lady of Aparecida Parish in Danbury/Bethel, Connecticut, serves as a vital spiritual home for the Brazilian-American Catholic community, with over 1,100 registered families and many more participating in its thriving religious, social, and cultural events.

Established as an independent parish in 2020 after nearly two decades as a Quasi-Parish under St. Peter’s, the community has expanded to a new location in Bethel, allowing for greater pastoral outreach and religious formation. The parish fosters faith development through 28 active ministries, including retreats, sacramental preparation, youth programs, and faith formation for families.

Thanks to the Diocesan Capital Campaign, Our Lady of Aparecida has transformed its facilities, creating a dedicated worship space, classrooms, and offices to better serve its growing congregation.

As the Episcopal Vicar for Brazilian Catholics, Father Leonel Medeiros oversees the spiritual life of Brazilian Catholics across the Diocese of Bridgeport, ensuring they receive sacramental care and faith formation. His responsibilities include guiding the pastoral plan for the Brazilian Ministry, advising clergy and lay leaders, planning major community events, and maintaining administrative oversight of the parish.

Our Lady of Aparecida hosts six daily and five weekend Masses, provides religious education, and offers critical outreach such as home visits for the sick, immigration support, and family counseling. The parish also leads efforts in pilgrimages, youth engagement, and charitable initiatives, including the African Missionary Initiative in Mozambique.

Committed to fostering a dynamic faith community, Our Lady of Aparecida Parish continues to grow and serve through its deep-rooted mission of evangelization, formation, and pastoral care. With its expanded facilities and dedicated leadership, the parish stands as a testament to the faith and resilience of the Brazilian Catholic community in the Diocese of Bridgeport.