Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Military Museum

Keeping with this week's theme, Crossroads Magazine is highlighting the Military Museum of Southern New England, which is located in Danbury, CT. The museum is home to more than 60 war tanks, and over 85 percent of them are in working order and can actually be driven. For the most part the tank collection starts with vehicles made in the early years of World War II and the models continue all the way up until the late 1990s.

The museum was the brainchild of John Valluzzo, a Korean War veteran who was approached by a friend with the idea of a museum devoted to tank destroyers. John began searching for the 9 different types of vehicles used by tank destroyers during World War II, contacting the US government, private individuals, and even other countries in his quest to honor American veterans.

Since the museum first began nearly 25 years ago, its collection has expanded from World War II tank destroyers to all of 20th century mechanized warfare. But the heart still remains the vehicles of World War II.

The museum features over 10,000 artifacts covering nearly 100 years of American military history. The museum also hosts open turret days on the last weekend over every month, so you can get inside many of the tanks and other vehicles in their collection to see what they’re actually like inside. The museum also has a mobile unit that travels to schools and other special events to bring military history to people throughout the state.

Crossroads Reporter Kim Sanders visited the museum for a behind-the-scenes look at those massive tanks.

To see pictures of the tanks and to see them running, click here.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Women Veterans


As we advance into the new millineum, women soldiers are becoming more and more commonplace. But that was not the case back in the 1940s, when Rose DelMonico Murphy joined the service.

Rose is in her 90s and is one of thousands of women veterans in the state of Connecticut. Her acts of kindness and valor as an army nurse have been documented in letters sent home by other soldiers, and live on in her memory, told as heartening stories to younger members of her family.

Rose was stationed in the heart of the south Pacific, and helped to heal hundreds of wounded men.

In honor of the more than 14 thousand women veterans living right here in Connecticut, the state has introduced a new memorial in the veteran’s alcove.

Crossroads reporter Alisha Leavelle honored Rose DelMonico Murphy during our Memorial Day Special. We thought we'd bring it back through the blog in time for Independence Day.

Click here to see Rose's amazing story.

Friday, June 26, 2009

New Catholic Charities Center

It’s official! Archbishop Henry Mansell cut the ribbon and blessed the brand new Catholic Charities Family Center in Waterbury. The facility will offer services including a child guidance clinic, family support, parenting education, adoption services, employment help, and treatment for mental health and substance abuse. The Archbishop says, "Today we see the Archbishop's Annual Appeal at work, the results and the effect and the dedication of this new Catholic Charities family service center of Waterbury: three floors of offices that will be delivering services of such importance, making wonderful differences in people's lives.” Catholic Charities already serves about 10 to 15 thousand people in the Waterbury area. The former rectory of Sacred Heart Parish was converted into the center. This Saturday, Crossroads Magazine will introduce you to this new space. Watch us at 10:30 a.m. on WTXX and 10:30 p.m. on My TV 9 (WCTX).

ACLU Supports Diocese of Bridgeport

As we have reported on the blog, the Diocese of Bridgeport is suing for an injunction against the State of Connecticut Office of State Ethics' attempt to have the diocese register as a lobbying organization. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has sided with the diocese, filing an amicus brief on behalf of the Church.

Bishop William Lori says, "The ACLU’s decision to join with the Diocese in this case demonstrates that this is a matter of fundamental civil liberties that threatens the Constitutional rights of all citizens."

He continues, "Holding a protest rally on the steps of the State Capitol and posting information on our diocesan website are not lobbying but an expression of our First Amendment rights of free speech. We welcome the support of the Nation’s leading civil liberties organization, and look forward to making our case against the misguided actions of the Office of State Ethics."


For more information, visit www.bridgeportdiocese.com/story_ACLUStatement.shtml

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Ready for Some Peace and Quiet?

Life has its challenges. The stresses of daily life can weigh us down. That is why increased numbers of people are seeking spiritual rejuvenation, a time of rest, relaxation, reflection, and prayer. This weekend on Crossroads Magazine, reporter Jason Calvi will bring us to a sanctuary of peace, Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center in West Hartford. The economy is actually leading more people to the quiet confines of Holy Family, one of the country's largest retreat centers. Find out how some time away from the stresses of everyday life can refresh your body, mind, and soul. Check out Crossroads Magazine this Saturday at 10:30 a.m. on WTXX (CW 20) and 10:30 p.m. on WCTX (My TV 9).

For more information on Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center, click here.

There are several retreat centers in the Archdiocese of Hartford. Some are open for groups; others welcome individuals for day, weekend, and week long retreats; some provide directed retreats and conferences:

(Photo courtesy: Brandon Nappi, Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center)

WJMJ Religious Headlines


Updated:

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

WJMJ Religious Headlines

Sen. Dodd Now Supports Gay Marriage

Catholic Teachers in CT Accept a Wage Freeze

Demonstrating their commitment to the students they teach and the schools they serve, the teachers in the four high schools in the Archdiocese of Hartford have overwhelmingly voted to freeze their salaries for the next school year, 2009 – 2010.

Their vote means that teachers at East Catholic High School in Manchester, Northwest Catholic High School in West Hartford, St. Paul Catholic High School in Bristol, and Sacred Heart High School in Waterbury will not have their salaries increased at all in the next school year. Also taking a wage freeze are all administrators and staff at the four schools.


The schools sent out a statement saying: "The salary freeze reflects our concern, commitment and partnership with our students and their families during these uncertain economic times. Together, we remain committed to every student who desires a quality Catholic education.”

Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Dale R. Hoyt, expressed the appreciation of the Archdiocese for the Association’s vote for a salary freeze, saying, “We are extremely grateful that the high school administrators, faculty and staff have chosen to share in the necessary sacrifices required by the current economy. I am equally proud of these fine people who have placed the fiscal health of their schools and the needs of the students and parents above their own. They are tremendous examples of the commitment our faculty and staff have to our schools, and we are blessed to have them in our schools.”

Crossroads reporter Stephanie Valickis examined the reasons behind the wage freeze and its results. Click here for the full story.

Monday, June 22, 2009

WJMJ Religious Headlines

Massachusetts Deacon Healed by NewmanCardinals of the Vatican Congregation for the Causes of Saints have approved a miracle in Massachusetts. Deacon Jack Sullivan of the Archdiocese of Boston suffered from a severe spinal disorder. He prayed to Cardinal Newman, and was subsequently cured in August 2001. Deacon Sullivan tells the London Times he feels "awe and immense gratitude" to God and Newman. He says without the miracle, he would never have been able to complete studies to become a permanent deacon. While the cardinals approved the miracle at their June meeting, the Pope has the final say on this case. Cardinal Newman was a well known 19th century writer and priest. He converted to Catholicism after serving as an Anglican minister.

Other Headlines:

NJ "Shock Jock" Arraigned in Hartford -- No Plea


A New Jersey blogger was arraigned in Hartford Superior court today on charges of inciting violence against state lawmakers. The charges stem from his reaction to legislation introduced in March that would have taken all control from Catholic Bishops and Pastors over their own parishes’ finances, and given it to a board of lay people.

More than 5 thousand Catholics showed up at the state Capitol to protest the bill, even though the legislation had already been shelved.

Earlier this month, Hal Turner broadcast commentary on his website urging his blog readers to quote “take up arms” against Connecticut lawmakers . Turner also suggested that government officials should quote “obey the Constitution or die.” He says his words are protected by free speech rights, and did not enter a plea.

The charge carries a maximum prison sentence of up to 10 years. Turner's next court hearing is July 14th.

Manchester Parishes to Consolidate Pastors

In Manchester, parishioners and their pastors have come up with a way to improve efficiency and cut costs without closing any of their four churches.

Starting on July 30th, the four parishes in Manchester will be served by two pastors. Five priests in total will serve the needs of the Catholic community there.

Father Steven Sledesky will preside over St. Bridget’s Church and St. Bartholomew’s Church, while Father Kevin Cavanaugh will take charge of St. James’ Church and Assumption Church. Father Tom Sievel will be relocated to East Haven.

Plans for this restructuring have been in the works for more than 5 years. Church officials are stressing that the parishes are not merging. They are simply sharing a pastor.

Bringing Rockville Together - Bev's Corner

If you ever find yourself walking around in downtown Rockville (possibly trying to kill time before fighting a traffic ticket, as I was, or maybe visiting someone at RGH, or just browsing the little shops on Union St.), you might notice a big yellow sign: Check Out My Space. God.

It got my attention anyway. I walked into Bev's Corner with no expectations and found a comfortable living room like area with stacks of books lining the shelves and some well-worn couches in the corner by the window. Further in I could see card tables set out, and maybe a dozen people or so either using them to play cards (it looked like UNO) or eating bagels and drinking soda. On the far side, a band stage was set up, ready for Jacob's Well Coffeehouse and their Christian music. The soft buzz in the air was made up of several contented conversations - some about God, Jesus, or the bible, and some about life, the street, and job searching. No one at Bev's Corner had any place to be, and no one at Bev's Corner felt ostracized because of it.

The little space operates in conjunction with Union Church; the pastor's office, in fact, is right down the hall. It's founder is Larry Meehan. He says he and his wife had wanted to start a program like this when they retired. Unfortunately, he lost his wife before that day came. But Larry pushed on. He says God has given him the strength to provide guidance and comfort to those in need, be they coming from the shelter up the road, from the street itself, or just popping in out of curiosity, as I did.

Starting a little over a year ago, with just one visitor in its first six weeks, Bev's Corner has blossomed into an active and constructive hang-out, with dozens stopping by each day.

The Corner is involved with charity work, and recently helped victims of an apartment building fire that all but gutted a five-family house.

To hear the whole story and learn more about Bev's Corner, click here.

The Corner is also a big part of JesusFest, a growing religious block party in the Rockville downtown. JesusFest will take place on July 12 this year, and if you choose to go, be sure to make a stop at Bev's Corner - Larry says a coffee, a bagel and God will waiting for you.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Recreational Water Illness

As summer approaches, you'll soon be making your way to the pools, ponds and rivers of Connecticut. But there are some things you need to know to help keep you from getting sick once you get there.

Common water illnesses show symptoms like a head or stomach ache, or an ear infection. These illnesses can be caused by E.Coli and other micro-organisms found in the water system.

Crossroads reporter Stephanie Valickis explored the common swimming areas of Connecticut, and has tips on where to go this summer, and how to avoid a nasty bug.

Click here for the full story.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Live Mass at Our Lady of Peace in East Hartford

The Office of Radio and Television will be going live from the parish of Our Lady of Peace in East Hartford, on Saturday, June 13, at 4:00 p.m.

The Mass will celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, the body and blood of Christ.

Our Lady of Peace parish with 750 families is known as the small church with the big heart. It began in 1970 as a mission church to St. Christopher in East Hartford. In June of that year, the first Mass was celebrated at the Dr. Thomas O’Connell School. In 1971 Our Lady of Peace was elevated to parish status. In 1975, groundbreaking took place for the new church, a modern white structure located on 6 acres of land. Our Lady of Peace has recently been linked with Blessed Sacrament parish, also in East Hartford.


Join us tomorrow afternoon at 370 May Rd. in East Hartford, as we televise this Mass live at 4 p.m.


Bridgeport Diocese Appeals Supreme Court Decision

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport has filed a Motion with the Connecticut Supreme Court for reconsideration, by the entire Court, of the decision in the case Rosado verses Bridgeport Roman Catholic Diocese.

The Diocese has asked that the case be considered by the entire Court rather than the divided, five-member panel that issued the May 22nd decision to open court-sealed documents to the media involving alleged abuse cases.

The Diocese maintains that the current decision to open the documents fails to consider the
serious conflict of interest of the trial judge, fails to uphold the legitimate privacy and constitutional rights of all parties to lawsuits, and fails to recognize that disclosure of the sealed documents in question is barred by the Religion Clauses of the First Amendment.

Last month a five-member panel ruled by a 4-1 margin that the court documents involving 23 lawsuits against seven priests from the Diocese of Bridgeport should not be sealed. The documents were scheduled to become public in a matter of weeks but now will remain sealed until the court rules on the churches new motion.

Click here for the full story according to the Diocese of Bridgeport.

Alex's Lemonade Stand

On this week's Crossroads Magazine, reporter Jason Calvi shares with us the inspiring story of Alexandra Scott. Alex, who was born in Connecticut, was diagnosed with childhood cancer during her first year on this earth. Wanting to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients like her, she turned to the best money making idea she could come up with: selling lemonade. That little Connecticut stand raised thousands of dollars for cancer research when Alex was just four years old. Before she died at the age of 8, Alex raised over $1 million! Now, Alex's Lemonade Stands are sweetening the country, with thousands of people setting up their own stands. The organization has raised more than $25 million for pediatric cancer research.

As the weather warms up, why not stop by an Alex's Lemonade Stand near you. Find a location here.

For more information on the foundation, or to find out how you can set up your own Alex's Lemonade Stand, check this site.

Watch Crossroads Magazine this Saturday for the inspiring story of one local stand. Also, hear from Alex's father, Jay Scott. Crossroads Magazine airs all across Connecticut on WTXX on Saturday at 10:30 a.m., and 10:30 p.m. on My TV 9.
Photo Courtesy: Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation

Corpus Christi Procession in Middletown

The Catholic Churches of Middletown will hold a public procession of the Most Blessed Sacrament on the Feast of Corpus Christi on Sunday June 14, 2009.

The Feast of Corpus Christi celebrates the Precious Body of Jesus and the institution of the Blessed Sacrament. It is held on the Sunday following Trinity Sunday. There will be Benediction, Eucharistic hymns, prayers and traditional readings for the feast from the Gospels of Sts. Mark, Matthew, Luke and John at each of the churches.

The walking procession will begin at St. John Church, at approximately 10:30 a.m., following their 9 a.m. Mass and Eucharistic Adoration. The procession will then proceed to St. Sebastian Church after their 10 a.m. Mass. Eucharistic Adoration will take place at approximately 11; then process at approximately 11:30 to St. Mary of Czestochowa Church. Following their Eucharistic Adoration, they will process to St. Francis of Assisi Church where Bishop Cote will participate in the Eucharistic Adoration at approximately 12:45.

A luncheon banquet will follow in the Monsignor M. Davitt Fox Parish Center. Tickets are $20.00 per person and are available at all area churches or by calling (860) 346-4792. For more information, click here.

Crossroads Magazine will be there and will bring you coverage of this powerful event.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Bishop Lori on Fox News Website

Fox News has picked up on a story we first reported at the end of May. As of 2:15 p.m., the story is the front page article on Foxnews.com.

You can read our May coverage of this story here.

Connecticut's Office of State Ethics says the Church must register as a lobbyist group because it organized rallies at the Capitol. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport filed a federal lawsuit against the state. Church officials are asking the court to issue an injunction against the Office of State Ethics' decision.

Bishop Lori tells Foxnews.com, "We were simply seeking to fulfill our mission, to continue to be ourselves." Later he remarks, "It seems to me that by requiring a diocese or any other entity to register with the state before it can protest an unfriendly action by the state has a chilling affect. I don't think it's in anyone's interest that a protest rally be labeled lobbying."

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

WJMJ Religious Headlines

New Catholic Blessed
Medieval Church Documents Found in Chicago
Court Says 10 commandments Monument is Endorsement of Religion
Muslim Fired for Head Scarf
FBI Informants Inside Mosques
Video Game Maker Fakes Christian Protest
Anti-Semitism Down

George Tiller's Abortion Clinic Closes


George Tiller's abortion clinic has closed. The clinic, Women's Health Care Services, Inc., was one of the few in the country to offer late-term abortions. Tiller, of Wichita, Kan., was shot and killed at his church on May 31. Scott Roeder, an anti-abortion activist, is in Sedwick County Jail, awaiting trial. Roeder declared "victory" over the clinic's closing. He has not admitted guilt.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has come out against the killing, saying all human life is sacred and that a pro-life stance does not equate to violence.

Read the New York Times' story here.

As We Age...

Staying active as you grow older may be easier said than done, but maintaining your strength and flexibility is essential for getting the most out of life. Health specialists at McLean Health Center in Simsbury say there are several simple ways to keep active as you grow older.

They recommend strength training, even if you have to use a very light weight, or no weight at all. But they warn that inadequate footwear can lead to injuries like sprained ankles and knees. So before you start any activity, be sure you have the right equipment. They say simple exercises you can do at home will strengthen your joints and keep you limber longer. They recommend using a step and simply stepping up and down, slowly on the right and then the left foot. They emphasize the importance of using your legs to get out of a chair, as opposed to just using your arms. To maintain that level of flexibility and strength, they say walking is the best thing you can do. They recommend 10 to 30 minutes of walking a day. For those of you who have a pool nearby, the experts say easy water aerobics can quickly increase flexibility by providing both buouancy and resistance.

To learn more about ways you can stay active, or sign up for some of McLean's programs, click here.



Friday, June 5, 2009

Mission Haiti on Crossroads Saturday


A Connecticut man is building an orphanage in Haiti. On Saturday, Crossroads Magazine will introduce you to Moving With The Spirit's Mission Haiti. Hear the inspiring journey of the charity's founder, Catholic musician and speaker Sean Forrest. Watch our show for these and many more good news stories from the crossroads of Connecticut.

In order to build an orphanage, the mission needs help. Learn how you can pitch in here.

Parish Community Tag Sale This Weekend


The St. Catherine of Siena Women’s Club will hold a tag sale on Saturday, June 6, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. and Sunday, June 7, after Masses. St. Catherine of Siena Church West Simsbury, CT. The tag sale, which will be held rain or shine, returns after a four-year absence.

“The tag sale at St. Catherine of Siena Church had been an annual event for many years. We’re excited that the event will be returning to the parish this year,” said Bryce McGowan, Tag Sale Committee Co-Chair. “With the economy the way it is, everyone is looking for a bargain. It's a great way to help the parish as well as the community. We're confident many new treasures will be discovered amidst the wide variety of items for sale. There is something for everyone.”

If there's something you're looking for, drop by 265 Stratton Brook Road, West Simsbury, CT, on June 6 or June 7.

Governor Vetoes Bill to Abolish Death Penalty

Governor Jodi Rell has vetoed legislation that would have abolished the death penalty. The governor says the state cannot tolerate people who commit the most violent of murders.

Supporters in the Democrat-controlled General Assembly do not have the necessary two-thirds majority of votes to override her veto. HB 6578, which would have replaced capital punishment with life in prison, passed 19-17 in the Senate and 90-56 in the House last month.
Connecticut has 10 death row inmates. It has executed one inmate since the U.S. Supreme Court allowed states to reinstate capital punishment in 1976.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Live Mass at St. Francis of Assisi in South Windsor


The Office of Radio and Television goes live in South Windsor this Sunday for to broadcast a Mass on location.


Established in 1941, more than 1400 families attend St. Francis of Assisi Parish. Initially parish Masses were offered at the town hall auditorium on Main Street as plans were drawn for a new church. That church was dedicated on November 29, 1942. Currently, St. Francis of Assisi Parish is undergoing a church expansion to accommodate an ever-growing congregation.


Join us at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Sunday, June 7, at 10 a.m.
673 Ellington Road, South Windsor, CT 06074

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

WJMJ Religious Headlines


Faith Healing Boy Back on Chemo
Some Say Conservatives Partly to Blame in Murder of Abortionist
Dems For Life Leader on Pregnant Women Support Act
Praying for Bishops Who Were Against Obama at ND
Extremists Tell Nepal Christians: Leave, Or Die
Muslim Judge: WMD's Go Against Islamic Law
Murdered Iraqi Bishop Honored
Cardinal Stafford Retires

Laser Monks

It is not what you would expect to find in the quiet of a Wisconsin monastery, but there monks are running a computer business. The New York Times introduces its readers to the Laser Monks of Wisconsin. These Cistercian monks support their monastery and life of prayer by selling ink and toner cartridges. The money they make from the business helps them live their lives as “professional pray-ers.” You can read all about these computer monks in today’s New York Times here.

Cemeteries as Art

Many people dismiss cemeteries as creepy, or sad, places - not places at which to stop, not places at which to admire history. But cemeteries are as historic and artistic as any museum. The practice of burying and remembering the dead spans worldwide.

Crossroads Magazine spoke to two very different tombstone-lovers about their obsession with cemeteries and how they connect the living as well as the dead.

Dr. Bart DePetrillo is a retired obstetrician, who has spent the past 20 years collecting and carefully documenting Italian history through its cemeteries. He considers their cemeteries their greatest museums.

Ruthie Brown is the President of the Connecticut Gravestone Association. Her mission is to preserve and protect our cemeteries here in the state. She says the art within American cemeteries may be harder to find, but it’s no less real.

Two different people, with two different goals, and one meeting place that spans worldwide - cemeteries.

To hear their stories, and get a glimpse at the beauty within cemeteries, click here.

Monday, June 1, 2009

New Catholic TV News Show


He used to produce segments of Sixty Minutes and CBS News. Now he is a Catholic deacon embarking on a media ministry. Deacon Greg Kandra is the news director for the Diocese of Brooklyn’s New Evangelization Television.

Deacon Greg will use his wealth of experience to oversee the New York City cable station's newest show called Currents. The website says the show "is a half-hour news magazine program telling stories of people of faith from around the block and around the world....we are the first daily Catholic news program. Currents’ combination of exclusive interviews and features provides unique insight to inform viewers and strengthen them in their faith."

The show will air on cable in New York City, but you can also catch the show live on the net here.

To watch NET's other exciting program, check out this page.

More WJMJ Religious Headlines


U.S. Bishops Respond to Dr. Tiller's Murder
Fr. Frank Pavone's Reaction
New Study: Religious HS Students Have More Abortions
Pope John Paul II's Beatification Delayed?
Pope Benedict to Visit Czech Republic

WJMJ Religious Headlines


Catch WJMJ Relgious News on WJMJ Catholic Radio. That's 88.9 FM in Hartford, 93.1 in Hamden, and 107.1 in New Haven.