Crossroads Magazine - Exploring the Inspiring

St. Joseph Medal of Appreciation

2010-03-05T15:54:00.002-05:00

While the Olympic medal presentations have been completed, many in the Archdiocese of Hartford are winning a different sort of medal… the St. Joseph Medal of Appreciation. Archbishop Henry J. Mansell will present the Medal of Appreciation on Sunday, March 7th at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Joseph. Since 2002, the St. Joseph Medal of Appreciation has been given to parishioners from around the Archdiocese who exhibit distinguished and outstanding service to the Church. This year, Archbishop Henry J. Mansell will honor 208 people, the most St. Joseph Medal winners ever in one year.

Hartford Parishes Raise $1 Million for Haiti

2010-02-26T09:51:00.003-05:00

Catholic parishioners of the Archdiocese of Hartford have so far donated more than $1,000,000 to Haitian earthquake relief. One hundred percent of the funds go to the relief efforts of Catholic Relief Services (CRS). Archbishop Henry J. Mansell says, “I offer my profound gratitude to all the people who were moved by love and compassion to help our brothers and sisters in Haiti. The overwhelming sign of support and solidarity shows God’s grace among us. Please know that your support, coupled with donations from around the world, will be put to good use, as CRS continues to provide relief to Haiti.”

The $1,036,217 collected so far from 166 parishes, 5 schools, and individual contributions will assist Catholic Relief Services’ around-the-clock mission in Haiti. CRS has already provided food, medical care, and shelter to hundreds of thousands of people. CRS provided emergency shelter kits to help nearly 100,000 people living in refugee camps. They are in the process of distributing kits to help 20,000 more. CRS staff members are also investigating solutions to housing problems. CRS has already set up nine primary care centers in the earthquake-ravaged country. Doctors and medical professionals are performing hundreds of critical operations per week at St. Francois de Sales Hospital, a hospital that our donations are working to repair.
Catholic Relief Services is well-rooted in Haiti; they have been serving there for 55 years. The million dollars from the Archdiocese will add to the worldwide Catholic effort to help CRS in Haiti. The Archdiocese of Hartford expects the number of donations to increase as we hear from the remaining 47 parishes of our Archdiocese. Those who wish to donate should send a check marked clearly for Haitian Relief to: The Chancery, 134 Farmington Ave., Hartford, CT 06105.

The Archbishop reminds us: “While the earthquake is no longer making front-page headlines, the people of Haiti continue to suffer. They need our help now more than ever, to find solutions in the long term. That is what Catholic Relief Services does.”

National Prayer Breakfast

2010-02-04T12:44:00.004-05:00

“Empowered by faith, consistently, prayerfully, we need to find our way back to civility.”

Those were the words of President Barack Obama as he started his day in prayer. He spoke this morning at the 58th annual National Prayer Breakfast in Washington. The president and first lady joined thousands of guests, including members of Congress and other government and religious leaders from around the world. Obama described himself as a man of faith, and asked his adversaries to take that into account.

“Now, I’m the first to confess," he said, "I’m not always right. Michelle can testify to that, but surely you can question my policies without questioning my faith... or my citizenship”

Other speakers included the Spanish Prime Minister who supports gay marriage and the easing of restrictions on abortion and divorce, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The National Prayer Breakfast is sponsored by a secretive Christian group known as the Fellowship, or the Family.

March for Life - Washington, D.C.

2010-01-21T15:48:00.005-05:00

Hundreds of thousands of people are pouring into Washington D.C. to protest abortion for the annual March for Life. Office of Radio and Television reporter Jason Calvi is with a group from the Archdiocese of Hartford. Tonight there will be a special Mass, which, we're told, more than 10,000 people will attend. Tomorrow, a pro-life breakfast, another Mass, and then the march itself. WJMJ and Crossroads Magazine will be there live and bring you reports throughout the day.

Deacon Charles Dietsch to Speak on Experience in Haiti Earthquake

2010-01-18T16:18:00.001-05:00

Deacon Chuck Dietsch of Sacred Heart Parish in Southbury has returned from Haiti after being rescued from the rubble when a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the region.
He will speak about his experience in the quake and his mission in Haiti, tomorrow, Tuesday, January 19, 2010, at his parish in Southbury at 10:00 a.m.
Deacon Chuck first visited Haiti in 2007 with other members of Sacred Heart Parish, a visit that eventually culminated in a decision to twin the parish with Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Parish in Gran Boulage, Haiti in October 2009.

Since then, Deacon Chuck has been serving with the Office of Haitian Ministries of the Diocese of Norwich to work with groups of Americans who came to Haiti through the Norwich Mission House for a cultural and spiritual immersion in Haiti.

He arrived for his mission there just days before the earthquake shook the country. He and Jillian Thorpe, also from Connecticut, were buried under the rubble for 10 hours before being rescued.

Deacon Chuck was taken to the American Embassy in Port-au-Prince and then flown to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic before being flown back to the United States. He is presently recuperating from his injuries at home.

WHO: Deacon Chuck Dietsch of Sacred Heart Parish
WHAT: Speaking on his experiences in Haiti, before, during and after the earthquake. Increasing awareness to the disaster there that still requires help and funds.
WHEN: Tomorrow, January, 19, 2010, 10 a.m.
WHERE: Sacred Heart Parish, 910 Main St. South, Southbury

Deacon Chuck will speak at 10 a.m. and take questions afterward.

CRS - Relief to Haiti

2010-01-15T16:30:00.004-05:00

Archbishop Henry Mansell asks parishes to take up a donation to help Catholic Relief Services aid victims in Haiti.

Catholic Relief Services is readying food and other aid to help families affected by a powerful earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12. CRS has committed an initial $5 million (US) to help survivors of the devastating quake.

“This is a massive disaster,” says CRS’ Country Representative in Haiti, Karel Zelenka. “We should be prepared for thousands and thousands of dead and injured.” In a brief call on Tuesday night before phones went down, Zelenka described clouds of smoke surrounding Port-au-Prince and said, “I’ve experienced earthquakes before, but I never felt anything like this. This is a major hit. And it was direct.”

While the CRS office in Port-au-Prince is undamaged, a building directly across from it collapsed. CRS has approximately 340 staffers in Haiti, of which 120 are in Port-au-Prince. Many staffers slept outside on Tuesday night to avoid building collapses from aftershocks.

CRS has pre-positioned food, water storage containers, bedding and other supplies in warehouses in Haiti and nearby countries. “We have to find out if the warehouses in Haiti are damaged,” says Ken Polsky, Regional Representative for CRS Latin America. “We will also move supplies there from the Dominican Republic and Miami.”

“This is going to be devastating,” says Bill Canny, Director of Emergency Operations for CRS. “We know it's chaos in Port-au-Prince and help is needed immediately.”

“We're moving additional emergency staff in as quickly as possible,” continues Canny, who left for Haiti January 13.

CRS has worked in Haiti, the poorest country in the Western hemisphere, for over 50 years. The country is still rebuilding from the 2008 hurricanes that left the city of Gonaives buried in 3.2 million cubic yards of mud.

How to Help:
Donate via phone: 1-877-HELP-CRS or text RELIEF to 30644
Donate online: www.crs.org
Write a check: Catholic Relief Services
P.O. Box 17090
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-7090
Memo portion of check: Haiti Earthquake

You can also donate locally by sending a check marked clearly for Haiti Relief Services to the Chancery at 134 Farmington Ave., Hartford, 06019

Or here to the Office of Radio and Television, at 15 Peach Orchard Rd., Prospect, CT, 06712

Circus Nuns

2009-11-13T17:02:00.004-05:00

The circus came to Bridgeport's Harbor Yard, and if you missed it, don't worry, it comes every year.

But there are many things going on behind the scenes, that a show-goer would never see, like, for instance, the religious sisters helping the performers and their children.

The circus is like a travelling city. The train in which the families live is a mile and a half long. There are food carts, animal carts, living space carts, equipment carts, all lined up and all moving across the country at a fairly decent clip. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the circus crew travels, on Wednesdays - Sundays, they put on a show in a new location.

Many take their families with them. 10-year-old Katherine Stuart says the circus life is "not so weird." She goes to school, five days a week, for five hours a day. Sr. Dolores Fabritze teaches her history, math, English and geography, to name just a few subjects. The school day looks a bit different from a circus train, though. They are in "school" from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and that school is really whatever back room the venue provided them. They must unpack their books and tools from movable carts, and then pack them all back up again five days later when they leave. After school, the children can't really do sports or participate in extra curricular activities, but they spend time in the nursery and with the performers, as their parents ready for that night's show.

Sr. Fabritze and other religious personalities make sure that the sacraments are provided to the performers who request them. They also provide bible studies and personal healing for those on-board the train.

If you'd like to see more of what goes on behind the scenes at the circus, tune in to Crossroads Magazine, at 10:30 a.m. on TXX and 10:30 p.m. on MyTV9.

Waterbury Native One Step Closer to Sainthood

2009-09-22T13:11:00.008-04:00

Hartford Archbishop Henry Mansell has just signed the documents of the investigation into a possible miracle attributed to the founder of the Knights of Columbus, Venerable Fr. Michael McGivney. The information is now being sent to the Holy See, where a team of medical experts and theologians at the Congregation for the Causes of Saints will investigate the potential miracle.

Make sure to watch Crossroads Magazine this Saturday for the full story. Crossroads airs Saturday on WTXX at 10:30 a.m., and My TV 9 at 10:35 p.m.

Nun Run!

2009-09-21T16:17:00.005-04:00

Alicia Torres, of Chicago, wants to become a sister, but she cannot do that until she pays off $94,000 in student loans. To help pay off the debt, she gathered pledges as she ran a half-marathon. Her site, TheNunRun.com, is gaining national attention.

NPR's All Things Considered interviewed her.

Here is the Chicago Tribune's video of Alicia.

Alicia wants to join a new community of Franciscan Sisters in Chicago who will serve the poor.

Once those debts are paid off, Alicia hopes she will still be able to run in her habit.

Priest Chef Out Cooks Renowned Chef Bobby Flay

2009-09-11T15:17:00.010-04:00

Father Leo Patalinghug beat world-famous chef Bobby Flay in a steak fajita cook-off on the Food Network’s Throwdown! With Bobby Flay. Father Patalinghug works at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, where some of our Archdiocese of Hartford seminarians train for the priesthood. Bobby Flay visited the seminary to challenge Father in a head-to-head cooking competition.

Father's Grace Before Meals cooking show airs on Boston's Catholic TV. You can also find his show on his website, which receives 10,000 hits a day. He also penned a book with the same name as the show. Father tells the Archdiocese of Baltimore's The Catholic Review, “Having Bobby Flay challenge me to a throwdown was a complete surprise and shock. I’m a huge fan of his and the Food Network, so it was an honor just to be on the show and cook alongside of an Iron Chef.” Flay is a former altar-server.

If you missed the original episode on September 9, you still can check out Father's victory on the Food Network on Sep 20 at 11 p.m. and Sep 21 at 2 a.m. Check times here. Congrats, Father Leo!

PBS's Faith and Ethics Newsweekly just did a nice profile on Father. It is worth checking out.

Guadalupe Celebration

2009-09-09T12:11:00.003-04:00

Crossroads Magazine will be on hand for the Guadalupe Celebration tonight in New Haven. We hope to meet many of you there. Here's the information, from the Knights of Columbus:

On Wednesday, Sept. 9, the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council will host a festive Guadalupe Celebration and procession in New Haven, Conn., featuring a rare relic of St. Juan Diego – a small piece of his miraculous tilma, nearly 500 years old. A special Mass will be offered by Archbishop Henry Mansell at 5 pm in St. Mary’s Church, with a homily by Bishop William Lori. At 6 pm, Msgr. Eduardo Chavez, the world’s foremost expert on Our Lady of Guadalupe, will speak about the apparitions. At 6:30 pm, a procession with the relic will begin from St. Mary’s Church, leading through the streets of New Haven to the K of C Museum for a fiesta in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Festivities will include a chance to individually venerate the relic, as well as Mexican food, performances, artworks and much more. All are invited. Please see kofc.org/guadalupe for more information.

Bishop of Scranton Resigns

2009-08-31T12:34:00.005-04:00

The Diocese of Scranton posted the press conference announcing the resignation of 63 year-old Bishop Joseph Martino. The bishop says stress has caused him insomnia and crippling physical fatigue. He has lead the diocese since 2003. The Vatican announced today that Pope Benedict XVI accepted Bishop Martino's resignation. According to Canon Law, a bishop must turn in his resignation at the age of 75. Canon Law also allows a bishop to resign because of illness or if he becomes unsuited for the ministry because of "some other grave reason." Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia will now be temporary administrator of the Diocese of Scranton. During the press conference today, the Cardinal said he hopes the Holy Father will appoint a new bishop of Scranton within six months. The Cardinal has named a number of episcopal vicars to serve in the diocese. His vicar general is Monsignor Joseph Bambera, pastor of two parishes in Archbald. After brief statements from Bishop Martino and the Cardinal, the media asked a number of questions.

Series on Seminarian

2009-08-26T17:20:00.003-04:00

The Columbus Dispatch is doing a six-day series on the journey to the priesthood for one young man. They go behind the scenes of seminary life to paint a picture of one man's vocation. It is really unheard of for secular media to do a six-part series, let alone one on the priesthood.

You can check out the articles here.

Thanks to The Deacon's Bench for linking to this article.

The photo courtesy: The Columbus Dispatch.

Convicted Connecticut Pastor Dies in Prison

2009-08-24T15:53:00.005-04:00

The Rev. Michael Jude Fay, the longtime pastor who stole more than $1 million from St. John Church in Darien, died Saturday in a Butner, N.C., federal prison. He was 10 months into a 37-month sentence for the theft.

The Diocese of Bridgeport is not releasing any details on the death, but Fay was known to be suffering from prostate cancer.

In May 2006, it was discovered Father Fay was using church money to support a lavish lifestyle, which included trips to Europe, the Caribbean and other parts of the United States.

More than a year later, Fay pleaded guilty to interstate transportation of money obtained by fraud. Father Fay and his attorneys asked the judge not to send him prison, saying he would die there.

Fay was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than a million dollars in restitution.

Remembering Pro-life, Catholic Eunice Kennedy Shriver

2009-08-12T11:22:00.009-04:00

Pro-life groups are remembering a champion of life, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. The sister of John, Robert, and Ted Kennedy and the founder of Special Olympics died Tuesday. Susan B. Anthony List President Marjorie Dannenfelser says,"No one more than Eunice Kennedy Shriver understood better the power held by the most vulnerable in our society." She continues, "She fought for those hidden in the shadows of life, while acknowledging that they teach us far more than we could ever offer them. She was consistent in her championing of every vulnerable human life.” Shriver was a former advisory committe member of the pro-life Susan B. Anthony List. In 1992, Shriver and many pro-life leaders signed a full page ad in the New York Times. They protested the Democratic Party's embrace of the abortion-rights agenda. Shriver also worked for Democrats for Life of America and Feminists for Life.

The AP reports the longtime priest of Mrs. Shriver says the Special Olympics founder was a compassionate woman who attended church regularly. Father John Enzler says Shriver was striving to be in touch with God. Father says Shriver saw herself as a steward, using God’s gifts to help others. He also says that Shriver’s legacy is her recognition that everyone is important.

National Vocations Study

2009-08-11T13:08:00.010-04:00

A landmark study says incoming vocations to religious orders are more traditional and ethically diverse than their predecessors. Georgetown’s Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate released “Study of Recent Vocations to Religious Life" on Tuesday. Most religious orders in the country have shrinking numbers. The few congregations where numbers are spiking are more traditional. According to the study, which surveyed 4,000 people who entered initial formation or made solemn vows since 1993, most younger recruits want to join orders that wear the habit, are faithful to Church teaching and also pray, live, and work together. Most of those entering the religious life sense a call and desire for spiritual growth. Eight-five percent of respondents feel attracted to the joy or commitment of the community members.

These new members are also ethnically diverse. Twenty-one percent are Hispanic, fourteen percent are Asian, and six percent are African or African Americans.

The principal author of the study, Sister Mary Bendyna, called these new vocations a sign of hope. Brother Paul Bednarczyk, executive director of the National Religious Vocation Conference, says "The Church and the world need women and men religious. Their witness has been the impetus for social change and spiritual renewal throughout history....Now a new generation of religious men and women show a renewed appreciation of our Catholic worship, identity, and communal living. Their witness remains a vital part of the life of the Church."

You can read the press release, a helpful summary of the study, here.

Photo Courtesy: Nashville Dominicans, a group with dozens and dozens of new postulants entering the convent year after year.

Cathedral Green Dedicated and Blessed!

2009-08-10T15:49:00.008-04:00

Archbishop Henry Mansell cuts the ribbon at the brand new Cathedral Green, which will be the home for 28 low income families.

Click here for the complete story, with pictures.

This Saturday, Crossroads Magazine will give you a tour of the new space and share the touching stories of some of the families who will soon move into Cathedral Green. (In the above photo, you can see the hard work of one of our videographers, Bruce Tumyol, as he and his camera peer down into the ribbon cutting crowd.)

In order to help furnish the new rooms, Catholic Charities still needs some monetary donations. You can contact Peter O'Donnell for more information:
J Peter O’Donnell
Director of Fund Development
Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Hartford
860-728-2571 or email
podonnell@ccaoh.org

Priesthood: "The Coolness Factor"

2009-08-07T10:23:00.008-04:00

A toy Mass kit? That's right. Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle writes a review of the toy for Catholic boys. She says, "What better time to instill a vocation to the priesthood in your young 3 to 12 year-old son, nephew, grandson, godson, or friend than in the Year of the Priest?" You can check out the My Mass Kit toy here. I've met many priests who tell me they used to "play Mass" when they were kids.

I wonder if Donna is on to something in promoting this toy. I think there is something to be said about what I'm terming "The Coolness Factor." Not to be irreverent, but the priesthood is very cool. At every Mass, through the power of the Holy Spirit, the priest brings the Lord Jesus to the world in the Eucharist. In Confession, God works through the priest to save a soul from damnation and bring it back to God. That is cool. Very cool. If a young boy is able to see the coolness of the priesthood, I believe he will be much more open to answering a call. Of course, there is much more to the priesthood than "The Coolness Factor;" priesthood is a challenging vocation for sure, but with God all things are possible.

If you want to see a great example of "The Coolness Factor," check out this wonderful video: God in the Streets of New York City from Grassroots Films. The priesthood is cool.

If you would like more information on answering a call to the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Hartford, please contact Fr. Michael Dolan. Check out the vocation's site. The phone number is 860-761-7456. Or you can e-mail Father at director@vocationshartford.org.

Prayer Vigil for Life Outside Planned Parenthood

2009-08-06T12:09:00.003-04:00

This Saturday pro-lifers will gather in New Haven to pray for the end of abortion. They will begin their vigil at 7:30 a.m. with Mass at St. Mary's in New Haven, followed by a half hour of Adoration. They will then drive to St. Joseph's Church (129 Edwards Street). From there, they will process to Planned Parenthood in New Haven, where they will pray until around 10:15 a.m.
For more information, see http://ecclesiadomesticajmj.blogspot.com/.

Year of the Priest Icon Writer from Connecticut

2009-08-06T11:07:00.006-04:00

Have you seen this beautiful icon in holy cards at your church? The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops are using it for the Year of the Priest. Iconographer Marek Czarnecki of Seraphic Restorations in Meriden, Connecticut wrote this image of Christ the Great High Priest. Czarnecki explains his icon, “Here Christ is shown in Latin Rite vestments with a gold pelican over His heart, the ancient symbol of self-sacrifice. The borders contain a windig grapevine and altar prepared for the celebration of the liturgy of the Mass; in the borders are smaller icons of Melchizedek and St. Jean-Baptiste Vianney.”

Crossroads Magazine will introduce you to this icon and the iconographer on this week's show. Catch Crossroads Magazine on WTXX on Saturday at 10:30 a.m., and on My TV 9 (WTCX) on Saturday at 10:35 p.m. (right after the 10 p.m. news).

For more about Czarnecki, check out his website here:http://www.seraphicrestorations.com/. You can order a poster of the icon from the National Federation of Priests' Councils here.

Young Priest Featured in Paper

2009-08-06T10:48:00.004-04:00

As a youngster, Matthew Nemchausky wanted to work in the film industry, but as you can see from the collar in his photo above, he is now Fr. Matthew. He is just one of the recently ordained priests in this country. Chicago's Southtown Star featured Father in this piece yesterday. Check it out. Let us continue to pray for many more vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-08-04T16:08:00.005-04:00

Nigerian Church Leader Asks Government to Pay for Burned Churches
Pakistani Bishop: Police Did Not Do Enough to Stop Violence
Vietnam Catholics Protest Persecution
Church Threatens to Excommunicate Over Abortion Pill
Portugal High Court Upholds Gay Marriage Ban
Worcester Closed Church Sold to Pentecostals
U.S. Sisters to Complete Comprehensive Questionnaire
Annual Appeals See Boost, Despite Economy
Mark Wahlberg Marries in Catholic Church

Vocations Holy Hour Tonight

2009-08-04T15:05:00.011-04:00

On this 150th anniversary of the death of the patron of all priests, St. John Marie Vianney, Most Holy Trinity Church in Wallingford will host a Hour Hour for Vocations.

What: Holy Hour for Vocations
When: Tuesday, August 4, 2009 at 7 p.m.
Where: Most Holy Trinity Church, 84 North Colony Street [Route 5] in Wallingford, CT

You are invited to join in celebrating this Year of the Priest by praying in front of the great gift our priests bring us everyday: Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Altar. Join in the prayer to ask God to send more shepherds to tend the flock. The monstrance to be used, seen above, is the National Vocations Monstrance blessed by Pope John Paul II. This prayer service will also allow people the time to follow Pope Benedict's call to pray for all priests. (Find out about receiving a Plenary Indulgence at this site.)

Archbishop Henry Mansell says, "This is a wonderful way to celebrate the Feast of St. John Vianney, Patron of Priests across the world, as we move into the Year for Priests. The Holy Hour is an excellent opportunity to pray for more vocations to the priesthood. We are very encouraged here in the Archdiocese of Hartford with the recent and significant increase in the number of our seminarians, but of course we still hope for more. I would encourage as many parishioners as possible to participate in this Holy Hour on August 4 and to continue your prayers for our priests and for many men to answer the call to the priesthood."

All are invited to the church hall for refreshment after Adoration. A panel of priests and parishioners will also share testimonies about the gift of priesthood.

New Study on Resisting Temptations

2009-08-04T14:22:00.009-04:00

How confident are you in your ability to resist temptation? Loran Nordgren, senior lecturer of management and organizations at Northwestern University studied the question. His answers will be published in the journal Psychological Science, but you can find an introduction on LiveScience.com.

In the article he says, "People are not good at anticipating the power of their urges, and those who are the most confident about their self-control are the most likely to give into temptation."

For example, in one experiment people who thought they could resist smoking were twice as likely to indulge in a cigarette as those who were not sure of their abilities to resist.

The conclusion of Nordgren's work is to not put oneself in danger of succumbing to a temptation. He says, "People have less self-restraint than they think, a false belief that often leads people to expose themselves to more temptation than they can handle."

For Catholics, this study is not too earth shattering. We are taught to avoid the near occasion of sin. Now, the secular science backs up that teaching. God's grace helps us when we are in temptation. Try praying, while getting out of the situation. "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil."

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-08-03T16:52:00.004-04:00

$100 Million Government Contract with Catholic Charities
Appeal of Court's 10 Commandments Are Unconstitutional Decision
Wisconsin Faith Healing Death: Guilty Verdict
Oregon Faith Healing Death: Guilty Verdict
Miami Catholics Await Word on Church Closings
Episcopalians Nominate Gays for Bishop
Pope Deplores Anti-Christian Killings in Pakistan
Oldest U.S. Synagogue Now Has Visitor Center
Catholic Bank Apologizes For Owning Stock in Contraception Company
Archbishop Warns about "Dehumanizing" Social Networking Sites
Michael Phelps Turns Down Pope's Invitation
Video: Skateboarding for Jesus?

St. Padre Pio: The Matchmaker?

2009-07-31T15:24:00.009-04:00

St. Padre Pio the matchmaker? The holy priest who had the stigmata for 50 years led a couple to marriage. The couple, now residing in Somers, Connecticut, met back in the 1960s when visiting the friary of St. Padre Pio. They kept in touch and visited after this original meeting. Germain Bianchi wanted to marry the young woman, Ortrud, but she was not so sure. One more visit to see Padre Pio changed all that. The couple says what happened next was a miracle. During that time, the pilgrims would wait for the holy priest’s blessings in separate parlours: one for men, another for the women. Ortrud and Germain were both pulled from their respective crowd and taken to a private area. Both were surprised that the other was there too. Just then, Padre Pio walked in, placed his hands on both of their heads, and gave them a blessing. They took it as sign they were to marry.

Crossroads Magazine will have the whole story this Saturday at 10:30 a.m. on WTXX, and 10:30 p.m. on My TV 9. Tune in for this inspiring story of a Connecticut couple and a modern day saint.

You can read Ortrud's description of this romance story here.

Photo Courtesy: PPPG.org (Padre Pio Prayer Groups).

Young Friars Walk to D.C.

2009-07-30T10:47:00.004-04:00

Photo Courtesy: www.friarwalk.com

This group of young, smiling Franciscan Friars journeyed three hundred miles from Roanoke, Virginia to Washington, D.C. Along the pilgrimage, they were mistaken for Jedi Knight impersonators, slept on picnic tables along the Appalachian Trail, and ministered to people through talking and offering a joyful witness.

These guys went with only the essentials: their habits and a change of underwear and a toothbrush. As Br. Joshua Van Cleef says on the group's blog, "This pilgrimage is about the abundance of life offered in simplicity, in relationships, and in trusting in God.” They did odd jobs for food and shelter, when they weren't sleeping outdoors. "Pilgrimage as a lifestyle is resurfacing within the Order; it is a penitential and radical way of completely relying upon the grace of God," says Br. Richard Goodin on their blog.

The friars were featured on the front page of the Washington Post. You can read the excellent article here. The paper also a wonderful photo essay here. Finally, the paper provides a map of the brothers' journey, as well as the various places the group slept, including a trampoline outside a firehouse, a police academy barracks, and a Baptist church.

Let us pray for many more holy, inspiring vocations to the priesthood and religious life. May these young men live fruitful lives following the footsteps of their venerable founder and fellow walker, St. Francis of Assisi.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-30T09:08:00.006-04:00

Catholic Medical Association: Hit Reset on Health Care Reform

IRS Stops Tax-exempt Status Probe of Politics Preaching

Video: Jerry Falwell's Son Gives Opening Prayer at U.S. House

No Charges in Mormon Plaza Gay Kissing Arrest

Largely Muslim Albania Proposes Gay Marriage

Now in Court: Woman Charged With Wearing Pants

Violence Continues Against Catholics in Vietnam

Protesting Dom. Rep.'s Law Forcing Catholic Blessing of Marriages

An Indiana Catholic University Receives $6 Million Donation

Madonna Pens Article about Spiritual Conversion

2-1-1 and Food Stamps

2009-07-27T17:03:00.005-04:00

United Way of Connecticut’s 2-1-1 is a state-wide service for those in need, in need of food, shelter, information, programs... anything, really.

Leaders in the group say the economic distress calls are increasing with one of the biggest jumps being requests for help with food. 2-1-1 can point people to WIC services in their area or even DSS services like cash assistance and food stamps.

Since last year, there have been 54 percent more calls just for food stamps, a program now called SNAP. SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; it’s designed to provide additional funds for households to purchase healthy foods.

The federal stimulus package passed by the Legislature earlier this year provides for additional SNAP benefits, increasing those benefits by 13.6 percent.

Applicants no longer need to visit a DSS regional office…the entire process can be completed over the phone, through the mail or online. Everything is done with an electronics benefits transfer card, meaning the person in need would simply get an EBT card, take it to the store and use that for their grocery purchases. This makes usage easy and gives the person a lower profile than years ago when the stamp method was used.

The amount of the benefits depends on the household income and expenses; the figure remains in place for the duration of the certification period - usually a year. The benefits also carry over from month to month, so an EBT card is very similar to having an electronic bank account for the snap benefits.

Although about 127,000 families in the state are enrolled in SNAP. There are several thousand more that are eligible. 2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day, and anyone can call.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-24T14:15:00.004-04:00

Preacher Tony Alamo Convicted of Sexual Abuse

Leading Cardinal: No Communion for Pro-Abortion Politicians

Dr. MLK's Niece: Abortion is Not Health Care but Genocide

Bush Catholic Advisor: Obama Not Seeking Common Ground on Abortion

President Obama: I Pray All the Time

Parents Acquitted of Manslaughter Charges in Faith-healing Case

Activists: N. Korean Killed for Passing Out Bible

Vietnam Pres. to Visit Vatican in November

Pope Chats with Children

The Real Life, Catholic Indiana Jones

Florida Gator QB: Heisman Winner, Believer & Missionary

Tweet Prayers to Western Wall

Priest Fashion Designer on Crossroads Magazine

2009-07-24T11:49:00.004-04:00

As we shared with you here on the blog, New Haven native Fr. Andrew O’Connor is a priest of the Archdiocese of New York who leads the charity Goods of Conscience. It is an apparel line Cameron Diaz recently wore in Vogue Magazine. Julia Roberts will also wear some of the organization's clothing in the upcoming film Eat, Pray, Love.

You maybe wondering, "Why in the world is a priest a fashion designer?" We will bring you the answer this Saturday on Crossroads Magazine. That's at 10:30 a.m. on WTXX, and 10:30 p.m. on My TV 9 in Connecticut. Just a little hint at the answer: Father truly believes his charity work is a perfect opportunity to live Catholic social teaching. He is also reaching out to many people searching for faith answers.

For more information on Goods of Conscience, check out their website here.

An Ongoing Saga: FIC, Courant, and DCF

2009-07-24T10:38:00.013-04:00

If you read today's Hartford Courant, then you may have seen this letter to the editor from The Family Institute of Connecticut's Executive Director Peter Wolfgang. In the letter, Wolfgang defends the Institute's request that the state's Department of Children and Families take down links that promoted "the revisionist view that the Bible and religion approve of homosexual activity and attack those churches that disagree."

This letter is part of on ongoing saga between the FIC, The Courant, and DCF. As we reported on WJMJ Religious News on July 15, the Connecticut Department of Children has taken down web links that promoted a pro-gay interpretation of the Bible. DCF removed the links after being threatened with a lawsuit from the Family Institute of Connecticut and the American Center for Law and Justice. The links were to various websites saying the Bible takes a positive view of gay actions. The Family Institute’s Peter Wolfgang says DCF was violating the First Amendment because DCF was using public funds to try to change religious views of children. DCF has agreed to take the site down until the issues are addressed. They say they will remove information that promotes a particular religious viewpoint.

However, Wolfgang says the Courant has distorted the story. On July 17, he posted his first blog post reacting to the paper's coverage. You can read that reaction here, along with links to the article he questions. He also blogged again today, acknowledging the Courant's correction of the original piece, while still wondering about the original piece, asking, "Who lied to the Courant about the content of our complaint?"

WJMJ News Headlines

2009-07-23T16:02:00.005-04:00

Baptism at the Parents' Weddings

Nurse Forced to Aide Abortion

Rabbis Arrested in NJ Money Laundering Scandal

"Write Yourself into Bible"

Summer Camp for Those Considering Priesthood

Hartford Catholic Charities Wins National Award

2009-07-23T15:24:00.003-04:00

Catholic Charities USA recently handed out their 2009 Family Strengthening Awards. El Centro Family Center, run by Catholic Charities of Hartford, was among the three winners from across the country.

El Centro Family Center strengthens families "by encouraging children, adults, and seniors to reach their full potential. The center's family specialists work with families that need services, support, leadership development, early childhood education, adult education and training, crisis intervention, and stabilization. The program seeks to help parents recognize that they are their children's first and most important teachers, natural supporters, and most powerful advocates, and further, that they are decision makers who can have a positive impact in their families and communities."

This award honors exceptional programs that provide holistic services that support family relationships, strengthen family finances, and enhance the community. The winning programs will each receive a $25,000 award. The awardees will then be formally honored at Catholic Charities USA's Annual Gathering in Portland, Oregon in September.

Politico: Happy 175th Birthday, Cardinal Gibbons

2009-07-23T08:32:00.015-04:00

Photo: AP. James Cardinal Gibbons and President Theodore Roosevelt.

Politico has this article about James Cardinal Gibbons of Baltimore (1834-1921), the United States' second cardinal. The Church leader was born on this day in 1834. The piece says Cardinal Gibbons played a key role in the Vatican's decision to allow Catholics to join labor unions, was one of the founders of the Catholic University of America, and frequently visited the White House.

President Theodore Roosevelt called Gibbons “the most respected and venerated and useful citizen of our country.” the Cardinal also led the American Church's Council of Baltimore. A letter to the editor in The Catholic Review describes Gibbons as someone who "walked the streets of Baltimore before lunch and dinner each day, greeting and being greeted by the people on the street, who might also 'have a word' or 'speak their mind' or just pass the time of day."

Archbishop Edwin O'Brien of Baltimore will celebrate a Mass in honor of Cardinal Gibbons today.

The Great Silence: Vatican Ambassador Confirmation Hearing

2009-07-22T16:17:00.008-04:00

President Obama’s Vatican ambassador appointee had his confirmation hearing today. From a quick search of the Internet, it looks like this hearing is not drawing much attention from the media. We were able to find just a few blog entries about the hearing, including this one from the Washington Times.

According to Times religion editor Julia Duin, Diaz gave a brief prepared speech. During the session, Senator Bob Casey asked Diaz about the recent meeting between the Pope and the President. Diaz’s answer gives us some more insight into the conversations of the two leaders, more than was originally released. Diaz said the President and Pope talked about outreach to Muslims, Middle Eastern peace, Cuba, the political situation in Honduras, and the Pope’s encyclicals on bioethics and abortion. After the hearing, Duin and one other reporter tried to interview Diaz. He only said he was very proud to be nominated. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee may vote on the appointee next Tuesday. The full Senate will also need to approve the appointment.

In May, Catholic News Service offered this article on the appointment of Diaz, a theology professor from Collegeville, Minnesota.

(Updated on Thursday: Other news organizations are now reporting on this hearing. According to the Times blog entry, only two reporters tried interviewing Diaz. That leads me to think most of the stories are gathering their information from the Times or the other reporter who tried talking to Diaz.)

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-21T17:03:00.006-04:00

Judge Throws Out Challenge to Prop. 8

Budget Chief: Taxpayers May Fund Abortions

More People Turning to Home Funerals

Police Attack Catholics in Vietnam

Pope Sends Message to Tour de France Cyclists

Bike Ride Pilgrimage in Poland

Jimmy Carter Leaves Baptist Church

Diocese of Bridgeport Will Appeal to U.S. Supreme Court

2009-07-17T14:52:00.005-04:00

The Diocese of Bridgeport is seeking to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court to keep documents pertaining to sexual abuse cases sealed. Diocesan officials on Friday asked the state Supreme Court to continue a stay against releasing the documents until the U.S. Supreme Court decides whether to take up their appeal. The documents were scheduled to be unsealed as early as Monday. The state court ruled that more than 12,000 pages of documents from more than 20 lawsuits against priests should be released. Those documents have been sealed from public view since the diocese settled the cases in 2001. The diocese has questioned the impartiality of the trial judge in the case, who was on committee aimed at providing more access to court records.

The Diocese's statement says, "There are constitutional rights and privacy issues of great concern for all citizens that we wish the U.S. Supreme Court to review and decide." The first major issue surrounds what the Diocese says is an unconstitutional interpretation of the "judicial document" doctrine. Under this doctrine, the state Supreme Court has decided to treat all court documents as public information. According to the Diocese, however, only documents that shed light on the judicial decision making process fall under this doctrine. Since these cases were settled out of court, releasing the papers does not shed light on the judicial decision making process and so should remain private documents, according to the argument of the Diocese. As the Diocese's motion says, the doctrine is "to allow the public to monitor judicial performance. This doctrine is not, and never has been, intended as a constitutional or common law right to gather information for investigative journalism into the activities of private litigants." According to the motion, the Diocese says the issue of "judicial documents" is one that has "divided courts across the country."

A second issue revolves around First Amendment rights.

For the Diocese's motion and additional information click here.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-17T11:44:00.004-04:00

Pope Undergoes Surgery for Wrist Fracture

Court Upholds Ban on Passing Out Bibles in School

Much more headlines to come. Listen to WJMJ Catholic Radio on 88.9 in Hartford, 93.1 in Hamden, and 107.1 in New Haven. WJMJ Religious News airs weekdays at 8:25, 11:25, 2:25, and 4:25. Don't forget ABC News and Connecticut news are on the hour.

Updated:

Pope Smiling, Arm In Cast

Enrollment Decline at Catholic Schools

Only 33% of Scientists Believe in God

Legion to Take Over College

Confession: An Oil Change for the Soul

Pro-Soccer Players: Faith on Shirt Debate

WJMJ News Headlines

2009-07-16T16:00:00.004-04:00

Pope Prays for Plane Crash Victims

Episcopal Church to Bless Gay Marriages?

"Extraordinary" Pro-life Victories in AZ

President Obama's Recent Catholic Nominations

Vatican Newspaper Likes Harry Potter?

Night at the Vatican Musuem

Baby Massage

2009-07-13T16:08:00.004-04:00

When times get stressful, sometimes you just need a massage, but many doctors say massages aren't just for adults. If you have a fussy baby, massaging him or her can help calm him down, improve sleep patterns and help digestion. It can even help with their growth and development.

Crossroads reporter, Alisha Leavelle explored the benefits of baby massage on Crossroads Magazine in May. Click here to see the techniques you should use to soothe your baby whether they have tummy trouble, colic, or are just generally fussy.

Priest Fashion Designer in Vogue Magazine?

2009-07-13T15:00:00.008-04:00

New Haven native Fr. Andrew O’Connor is a priest of the Archdiocese of New York. He is the leader of two charity groups that combine the riches of art and Catholicism. In 2000, he founded “Sacredartheals,” which is collaboration with artists and Catholicism. Some of the works are found in parishes from France to Mississippi. In 2005, Father founded Goods of Conscience. The goal of the group originally was to preserve the Guatemalan custom of back-strap weaving, while providing the artisans a living wage. Goods of Conscience is an apparel line, that was recently worn by Cameron Diaz in Vogue Magazine.

Father will be speaking at his native St. Mary's Church in New Haven Monday night at 7:30 p.m.

Crossroads Magazine will introduce you to Father Andrew on our June 25th show.

Environmental Stewardship

2009-07-10T17:47:00.015-04:00

This weekend on Crossroads Magazine, we are devoting our show to energy and the environment. Tune in to learn about a proposal to turn garbage into gas. See how junk becomes art. Learn how the sun can power your home.

In addition, we will feature a report about global warming. We spoke to Yale Professor Dr. Ellen Thomas, who studies microscopic organisms in the Long Island Sound. In her research, she finds evidence that the sea is rising. These findings lead her to argue the world is warming.

To help protect the environment, many Catholics, including the Pope and the U.S. Bishops, are urging good environmental stewardship. Learn more about what some individuals and parishes are doing to chip in. Watch Crossroads Magazine this Saturday.

For more information on Church pronouncements on the environment, check on the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change website.

U.S. Bishops' Letter on climate change is here.

Catholics are pledging to do things to reduce their carbon footprints. Many, including Hartford's Archbishop Henry Mansell, are joining the Catholic Climate Covenant. You can join by taking the St. Francis Pledge. You can find out more and make the pledge here.

For people or parishes who want to get involved in the Archdiocese of Hartford, you can contact Jennie Graustein or Lynn Campbell at the Office of Urban Affairs at 203-777-7279.

2009-07-09T16:04:00.004-04:00

Maine Voters To Vote on Gay Marriage
Vermont Church Sued over "Moving Assets"
President Obama: Influenced by Catholic Social Teaching
Appeals Court: Pharmacists Must Sell Morning After Pill
Iowa Public School Wants to Allow Kids to Take Bible Class/Pray
Cardinal Rigali on the New Embryonic Stem Cell Guidelines
Australian P.M. and Korean President Meet Pope
Boston Red Sox Player on Faith Through Cancer Battle
The Blessed Mary in a Tree Stump?

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-08T16:06:00.002-04:00

Maine Supreme Court: Bishop Can Be Sued in Abuse Cases

Mass. Sues Feds Over Definition of Marriage

President Obama Meets Russian Orthodox Patriarch

Mrs. Obama Meets Orthodox Nuns

Religious Engraving for U.S. Capitol Added to Bill

Caught on Tape: Vandal Smashes Virgin Mary Statue

Episcopal Head: Church in Crisis

Pope Switches Things Up for Ecclesia Dei Commission

Pope Discusses His New Encyclical

Australian Catholics Offer Adult Stem-Cell Grant

Air Force Needs A Few Good, Holy Men

National Advocacy Group Backs Bridgeport Diocese

2009-07-08T10:13:00.000-04:00

A national advocacy group is calling for the removal of the head of Connecticut’s Ethics Office.

This is in regard to the motion made by that office to have the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport file as a lobbyist group.

The Group, “In God We Trust,” is urging Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal to dismiss Carol Carson, the Ethics Office Director… calling the office “out of control.”

The Ethics Office agreed to drop its investigation of the church after the Attorney General warned that the state would likely lose the lawsuit filed by the Diocese against it.

The national political advocacy group has over 70 thousand supporters of various faiths.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-06T16:56:00.004-04:00

Homemade Bomb Hits Mass. Parish

Pope Laments Philippians Bombing

President Obama Talks about Pope

Catholics & Baptists Agree on Intermarriage

Ads Air on Vatican Radio

Turkey Game Show: Convert Atheists

Actor Anthony Michael Hall Shares Faith

CT. Supreme Court Won't Reconsider Case

2009-07-06T16:44:00.002-04:00

The Associated Press reports the Connecticut Supreme Court will not reconsider their ruling to release thousands of pages of sex abuse court documents. The Diocese of Bridgeport asked the state’s highest court to rehear the case with all justices present. In May, the court ruled 4 to 1 that more than 12 hundred pages of documents from 23 lawsuits could be made public. A diocesan lawyer said they are still considering their legal options, including appealing to the United States Supreme Court.

Pope Approves Healing of Mass. Deacon by Newman

2009-07-06T16:26:00.006-04:00

Pope Benedict XVI has approved a miracle in Massachusetts: the sudden healing of a Massachusetts deacon who suffered from a severe spinal disease. The miracle is attributed to Cardinal John Henry Newman, a 19th century English Catholic convert from Anglicanism. The Holy Father authorized the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to publish decrees declaring miracles, martyrdom or heroic virtue for twelve deceased Catholics who are on the path to sainthood, including Cardinal Newman.

The healed deacon is Jack Sullivan. He shared his story over the weekend with inmates from Plymouth County Jail. He says he was studying to become a deacon, when the crippling pain interrupted the studies. He prayed to Cardinal Newman after seeing a show about him on the Eternal World Television Network. The pain left, but then returned a year later. The deacon prayed once again. He then felt a tremendous warmth and tingling. After this experience, Deacon Jack was healed of the spinal problem. He says the Cardinal "is always a part of me." He hopes to serve at the Beatification Mass.

You can read more here.

Official Vatican Announcement here.

2009-07-02T16:10:00.005-04:00

Federal Judge to Rule on Cali’s Gay Marriage Ban
Pittsburgh Catholic Cemetery Ransacked
White Powder Sent to Christian TV Station is Just Protein
Death Row Inmate Can Now Watch TV Mass
Pastor Rick Warren Speaks to Muslims
Muslims Attack Christians in Pakistan
Catholics in Honduras
Thousands of Mexican Priests Threatened
Pope John Paul II Closer to Sainthood?
Michelangelo’s Last Murals Now Open

Diocese of Bridgeport: Not a Lobbyist

2009-07-02T08:41:00.007-04:00

As we reported in the WJMJ Religious Headlines yesterday, Connecticut's Office of State Ethics has decided to stop its inquiry into whether the Diocese of Bridgeport needs to register as a lobbyist. The Office had said the Church's organization of rallies at the State Capitol made the Church a lobbyist group, and must register as such. The Diocese sued for an injunction against this request. The American Civil Liberties Union sided with the Diocese in this case. On June 30, the state's Attorney General, Richard Blumenthal urged for the end of the investigation. Ethics enforcement officer T.J. Jones will close the investigation, in light of Blumenthal's letter.

The Diocese has issued the following statement in response to the end of this probe:

“We are pleased to hear that the Office of State Ethics will abide by the Attorney General’s opinion and drop its action against the Diocese of Bridgeport.

“This is welcome news, not only for the Diocese but for all citizens who cherish the fundamental rights guaranteed by the First Amendment.

“We look forward to receiving written confirmation from the Office of State Ethics. At that time we will make a decision on our lawsuit.”

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-07-01T16:12:00.008-04:00

Connecticut Ethics Office Stops Diocesan Lobbyist Probe
Connecticut Attorney General: Lobbying Probe Should Stop
Man Tries to Run Over Pro-lifer
Cardinal Rigali Against Federal Funding of Abortions
Planned Parenthood Caught on Tape Bending Abortion Laws?
Will School Be Closed on Muslim Holidays in NYC?
English School to Student: Take Off That Crucifix
Pope's Wednesday Audience
Encyclical Out Next Tuesday
The Latest on the Kansas Miracle Investigation
Baltimore Miracle Investigation
Catholic Group Buys Very First Wendy's
Invention Allows 3D Modeling of Unborn Babies

Military Museum

2009-06-30T15:48:00.004-04:00

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.

Women Veterans

2009-06-29T15:57:00.004-04:00

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.

New Catholic Charities Center

2009-06-26T16:34:00.005-04:00

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

2009-06-26T09:50:00.004-04:00

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

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-06-25T16:19:00.003-04:00

Ready for Some Peace and Quiet?

2009-06-24T12:19:00.006-04:00

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

2009-06-24T11:42:00.007-04:00

Updated:

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-06-23T16:13:00.006-04:00

Sen. Dodd Now Supports Gay Marriage

Catholic Priest Dies from Iraq Injuries

Pope to Meet President Obama
Papal Vicar: No to Condoms in Schools
Vatican Official on Muslim-Catholic Relations
U.S. Bishops, Unions, Health Care Agreement
Pastor Warren Speaks to Breakaway Episcopalians
Morning-After Pill Banned in Chile
Vatican Space Observatory in NYT

Catholic Teachers in CT Accept a Wage Freeze

2009-06-23T14:48:00.008-04:00

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.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-06-22T17:16:00.007-04:00

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

2009-06-22T16:31:00.005-04:00

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

2009-06-22T15:10:00.006-04:00

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

2009-06-22T13:00:00.010-04:00

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.

Recreational Water Illness

2009-06-19T15:33:00.006-04:00

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.

Live Mass at Our Lady of Peace in East Hartford

2009-06-12T16:49:00.006-04:00

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

2009-06-12T15:45:00.003-04:00

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

2009-06-12T13:39:00.012-04:00

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

2009-06-12T12:32:00.005-04:00

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.

Bishop Lori on Fox News Website

2009-06-11T14:16:00.007-04:00

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."

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-06-09T17:00:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-09T15:41:00.003-04:00

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...

2009-06-09T13:50:00.004-04:00

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.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-06-08T16:47:00.004-04:00

Religious Sister Killed in St. Louis
Abortion Doc. Murderer: More Violence Coming
Lay Group: Catholic Hospitals Partnership To Cover Abortion?
Pro-lifers Fear New NYC Law
Rally: President Obama, Please Don't Cover Religious Symbols
Gay Rights March in D.C.?
Catholic Ponzi Scheme Guilty Plea

Israel Rescinds Move to Freeze Church Assets
Pope: Only Love Can Make Us Happy
Patriarch: Climate Crisis is Greatest Threat

Increased Numbers of U.S. Priests/Deacons; Less Baptisms/Marriages

Nashville Dominicans Get Ready for Large Incoming Class

Catholic Bishops' Friendly Wager on Basketball

Mission Haiti on Crossroads Saturday

2009-06-05T23:33:00.005-04:00

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

2009-06-05T16:55:00.006-04:00

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

2009-06-05T16:12:00.004-04:00

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.

Live Mass at St. Francis of Assisi in South Windsor

2009-06-04T16:51:00.004-04:00

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

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-06-02T16:27:00.009-04:00

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

2009-06-02T16:18:00.006-04:00

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

2009-06-02T10:35:00.004-04:00

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.

New Catholic TV News Show

2009-06-01T16:28:00.007-04:00

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

2009-06-01T16:17:00.004-04:00

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

2009-06-01T08:36:00.009-04:00

Abortion Doctor Murdered
Pro-Life Groups Denounce Killing
Fr. Cutie's Episcopal Pulpit
First Black Woman Rabbi
Pope Surprised He Was Chosen
Pope May Meet Obama

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.

Bridgeport Diocese Sues the State

2009-05-29T17:02:00.005-04:00

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport filed a federal lawsuit Friday afternoon against the state for seeking to have the church register as a lobbyist because it organized rallies against a bill to have independent boards oversee the churches finances.

Church officials are asking the court to issue an injunction against the Office of State Ethics' attempt to make the church register as a lobbyist.

"I believe the OSE's extension of the lobbying laws to these activities will interfere with the diocese's ability to mobilize its members and, if necessary, to urge them to rally at the Capitol," Bishop William Lori said.

The Hartford Courant has the whole story here.

In March, more than 4,000 Catholics gathered at the Capitol to protest a proposed bill to have lay councils oversee the finances of local parishes, relegating Catholic pastors and bishops to an advisory role.

Crossroads Magazine covered the event, and will bring you the video shortly.

American Exorcist Speaks

2009-05-29T15:47:00.007-04:00

Every day he battles evil spirits. Now an American exorcist is telling his story. Religion News Service introduces its readers to Fr. Gary Thomas, the official exorcist for the Diocese of San Jose. In March, Fr. Thomas wrote bishops and seminary rectors, urging them to train more exorcists. He included copies of the book The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist by Matt Baglio. This work chronicles Fr. Thomas' three year journey from parish priest to “spiritual detective.” If you would rather wait to see the story on the big screen, RNS reports New Line Cinema has bought the rights to The Rite.

Connecticut Catholic Bishops Fight Death Penalty

2009-05-29T15:26:00.006-04:00

Connecticut's House and Senate have voted to repeal capital punishment and replace it with life in prison without the possibility of release. This bill will soon go to Governor Jodi Rell, who has promised to veto the legislation. The six Catholic bishops of Connecticut have urged the Governor to reconsider her decision in this letter posted on the Catholic Conference of Connecticut's website. The Conference is asking you to urge the Governor to sign H.B. 6578.

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-05-29T14:58:00.005-04:00

Lawsuit: AIG Bailout Promotes Islam?
Lawsuit: National Day of Prayer Unconstitutional?
Papal Nuncio: Thumbs Up to Obama's Ambassador Pick
Catholics Fight Embroynic Stem Cell Research
Parishioners Sue New Orleans Archbishop

Miami Archbishop Surprised by Fr. Cutie

African Priests Go On Strike

Reconcilling the Date of Easter

Spelling Bee Winner Spells Bible Derived Word
Flash Drive Bible

Pray for Peace Walk

2009-05-28T18:06:00.007-04:00

Al Forte, of Norwalk, is a man taking his mission to the streets. Last summer he walked from Yankee Stadium to Wrigley Field in Chicago. Across the country, he encouraged people to pray for peace.

This year, he hopes you will join him as he walks a little closer to home. If you are interested in the Pray for Peace Walk this Sunday, check out Al's website. Time to lace up those shoes for a day of pounding the pavement and encouraging others to pray for peace. As Al says, "The more we pray for peace, the more peace there will be."

Motorcycle Run for Nursing Homes

2009-05-28T16:14:00.006-04:00

The Home-to-Home Foundation is a non-profit organization that works to enhance the quality of life for residents in long-term care facilities. They provide social activities and volunteer programs for those living in nursing homes.

The Home-to-Home Foundation's fourth annual bike run will be held on May 30, 2009 at the Prospect VFW in Prospect, CT. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the Prospect VFW, and the motorcycle ride starts at 10. A picnic will follow the ride at 1 p.m. with music, food, and a bouncer for the kids. Barbeque courtesy of Cafe 1650.

Riders- $20, Passengers- $10, Picnic only- $20, and kids under 10 years of age get in for free. Call (203) 591-9061 for further details.

Crossroads Magazine will be there, and will bring you full coverage of the event.

Ambulance to the Congo

2009-05-27T15:32:00.005-04:00

A priest in Waterbury is gearing up to ship out goods and medical supplies to the Congo. It's part of an effort to help women there survive childbirth. The World Health Organization cites more than 30 thousand women dying in the Congo during birth every year. Many times they cannot get to a proper facility, and end up giving birth in their villages, without proper supplies. Many die of infection, still others die of routine complications of the birthing process.

When a family in Texas donated an old van to Father Honore Kombo of St. Peter and Paul Parish, he started fixing it up, and stacking it full of medical necessities. He plans to ship the van overseas to be used as a mobile clinic.

Before that can happen, Fr. Kombo needs more supplies and more money. Crossroads reporter Jason Calvi took a tour of the van, and heard the personal stories of several women denied proper care in the third world country. Click here to see the touching story.

If you would like to help Fr. Kombo in his mission, you can email him at HONOREKOMBO@YAHOO.COM

WJMJ Religious Headlines

2009-05-26T16:43:00.008-04:00

Update on Friday's Top Story:
SNAP Requests Release of Bridgeport Documents

Bishops Praise Cali. Supreme Court For Affirming Gay Marriage Ban
Teaching Homosexuality to Kindergartners?
Faith Healing Vs. Chemo Update
Scientology Charged with Fraud
Vatican Urges Cooperation in China
13 Ordained in Newark

Ct. Supreme Court Rules on Sex Abuse Files

2009-05-22T15:42:00.004-04:00

In a four to one decision, the Connecticut Supreme Court has ruled that sealed documents from the Diocese of Bridgeport’s sexual abuse cases can be released to the public.

The New York Times and the Boston Globe have requested those documents be unsealed using the Freedom of Information Act.

The Diocese of Bridgeport has responded to the case here.

The Diocesian press release quotes the Supreme Court's dissenting opinion penned by Justice William Sullivan:“A person of ordinary intelligence and experience would have reason to question Judge Alander’s impartiality in the present case…”

The statement goes on to say, "Well after the legal time limit to challenge the initial sealing of documents, the secular press intervened, demanding access to the court files, including the sealed records. In a decision replete with anti-Catholic Church rhetoric, the trial judge actually invented an entirely new procedure to accommodate this after-the-fact request from the press."

Finally, the diocesian statement says, "Sadly, the history of this case has been about access by the secular media to internal Church documents of cases more than 30 years ago to suggest, unfairly, that nothing has changed. This is despite the extraordinary measures the Catholic Church has undertaken over the past several years to treat victims with great compassion and dignity, and to put in safeguards and educational programs to ensure that such a tragedy will not happen again."

The Court's majority opinion is here.
The Court's dissenting opinion is here.

Chastity with Jason Evert

2009-05-19T14:46:00.009-04:00

Sex is everywhere these days, and many parents, Catholic and otherwise, are at a loss as to how to guide their children to make the right decisions as they begin to grow up in what's become a very different and more fast-paced world than ever before.

Jason Evert is a world-renowned speaker on teenage sex and chasity, and to help parents in their mission to educate their youngsters, Saint Paul High School in Bristol invited him to speak to hundreds of students there, in a school-wide assembly in March.

Getting Jason was no easy task. School leaders say they were on a two-year waiting list. The speaker is so effective, schools and organizations all over the country have him speak to their youth. Since he can't be everywhere at once, Jason has also written several books, like Pure Love and Romance Without Regret, and he has even made DVDs, to help children in their journey into adulthood.

With funny stories, lively anecdotes and a penchant for talking like a teenager himself, Jason Evert seems to really connect with the kids. He says he started by trying to talk women out of abortions, and his career took shape from there. He now talks to more than 100,000 students a year.

Click here to hear some of Jason's talk yourself, and see what all the fuss is about. If you'd like to see where Jason will be next, you can go to his website, http://www.chastity.com/

Golf Tournament for Vocations at Lyman Orchards

2009-05-15T17:36:00.005-04:00

The Knights of Columbus is holding a golf tournament for vocations at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield on Monday, May 18, 2009. There will be a continental breakfast served at 7 a.m., the golfing starts at 8.

After the tournament, dinner will be served.

The cost is $128 per golfer, and that includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, use of the driving range, a golfer prize bag, a 6” Lyman Orchard’s apple pie, and a BBQ dinner with beer, wine and soda.

Non-golfers are invited to the dinner after the tournament for a donation of $73.

All proceeds will be donated to the Connecticut State Council’s Father Michael J. McGivney Vocations Fund.

Help and Hope Breakfast

2009-05-14T17:12:00.004-04:00

The Catholic Charities is holding their annual Help & Hope Breakfast tomorrow morning at 7:30 at the Marriott Hartford Downtown.

All proceeds from the breakfast will go to basic human needs for children throughout Hartford, Litchfield & New Haven Counties.

Chris Dailey, Associate Head Coach UConn Women's Basketball will be the guest speaker and
Diane Smith of CPTV's "All Things Connecticut"will be the master of ceremonies.

House Votes to Abolish the Death Penalty

2009-05-14T16:54:00.003-04:00

The Connecticut State House has voted to abolish the death penalty. After a five-hour-long debate the House voted 90-56 to punish capital crimes with life sentences without the possibility of release.

The legislation now moves to the Senate, where its chances for passage are considered questionable. If the Senate passes the bill, it is not likely to become law because Governor Jodi Rell continues to support capital punishment. The governor reiterated her position earlier this week. The winning margin in the House fell short of the 101 votes that would be needed to override a Rell veto.

Blue Mass

2009-05-12T17:10:00.001-04:00

Changing the Death Penalty in Connecticut

2009-05-12T10:26:00.003-04:00

Connecticut’s death penalty law is being reviewed, and may be changed as early as this week.

On Friday, the legislature’s judiciary committee discussed the state's death penalty law, to determine if it should be repaired, completely scrapped or left as is. The panel reviewed proposals by Chief State's Attorney Kevin Kane that aim to address lengthy delays in implementing the death penalty law.

The committee voted 24-13 in March to advance a bill to abolish the death penalty, with supporters calling the existing law unworkable and expensive. At that time the committee had also asked Kane to come up with proposals for a more workable death penalty.

Kane's plan calls for streamlining the appeals process by implementing time limits and changing the practice of automatically delaying execution every time an appeal is filed.

Just one inmate has been executed in Connecticut in nearly 50 years - convicted killer Michael Ross in 2005. Ross was executed only after he requested it and he had to wage a legal fight to do so.

Alisha Leavelle has studied the death penalty laws in the state of Connecticut. Click here for the detailed story.

Crossroads Magazine will continue to bring you updates on the changing law.