Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
In collaboration with the ministry team from the Office of Faith Events, Bishop Reidy recently renamed the ministry to better reflect the work and outreach happening across the diocese. The Office of Faith Events is now known as the Evangelization and Discipleship Ministry.
This new name expresses more clearly the heart of our mission: to help the Diocese of Norwich be “Rooted in Christ, United in Faith, & Committed to Serve.” Evangelization is the call given to every Christian— to share the Good News of Jesus Christ—while discipleship reminds us that our faith journey is lived both personally and together as a community of believers growing ever closer to Christ.
One of the most significant changes in our ministry is a renewed focus on training parishioners to lead the programs we have traditionally conducted. When we evangelize others, we strengthen their faith and empower them to share the beauty of our Catholic tradition. We will accompany and support those we train at the parish level so that they, in turn, can reach out to others in their communities. When we do this well and consistently, more people will be drawn into the life of our parishes, enriched by one another’s experiences of faith—ultimately strengthening parish life.
By doing so, we hope to strengthen the culture of faith in our local churches and support pastors and parish leaders in building vibrant communities where people encounter the living Christ.
As a ministry, our goal is to help people recognize and appreciate the gift of our Catholic faith. And like every good gift, it is meant to be shared. This will challenge our parishes to reach beyond their borders to welcome those who may not yet be part of their worshipping communities.
With the new name come new titles—and a new face—on our team.
Alvania Tejada, formerly our administrative assistant, is now the Ministry Coordinator, a title that better reflects the work she faithfully carries out each day. Alvania coordinates the calendar and scheduling for all the ministries we support. She oversees program registrations, manages deposits and check requests, designs our prayer cards and promotional materials, and assists with both virtual and in-person events. Her creativity and organization are invaluable to our office.
“We have reimagined how we can best use our individual gifts and talents to serve God and the Church—it’s a very exciting time for everyone in the diocese,” says Tejada.
Liza Roach has stepped into the newly defined role of Family Life Minister. She will oversee marriage preparation and enrichment, annulment awareness, pastoral care for separated and divorced Catholics, and fertility awareness/NFP. Liza will also coordinate the Anniversary Mass, baptismal preparation, parent mentoring, and faith formation from Birth to Grade 5. A significant portion of her work will focus on intergenerational parish programs, family mentoring, family services outreach, and social justice awareness.
“Enrichments for family life are needed at the parish level so we can strengthen families and help parents feel confident in passing on the faith. We want families to know we are their partners on this journey, providing whatever support they need,” says Roach.
Our newest team member is Maria Sweeney, who serves as Youth and Young Adult Minister. For youth, Maria will oversee NECYO sports, the Play Like a Champion training program for athletes, parents, and coaches, faith formation for grades 6 and up, diocesan youth events, and Confirmation retreats. She will also develop and maintain our social media outreach.
For young adults, she will support and promote College Campus Ministry, plan service opportunities, coordinate the Young Adult Mass with the Bishop, and collaborate with both Young Catholic Professionals and local young adult groups.
“I look forward to being part of the Evangelization and Discipleship Ministry Team as we take on new endeavors for catechesis under the leadership of Bishop Reidy,” says Sweeney. Maria, a wife and mother of four, brings experience in youth ministry, diocesan formation, and catechesis.
As the leader of the Evangelization and Discipleship Ministry Team—and currently the only full-time member—my responsibilities include overseeing the evangelization team; providing enrichment and training programs; directing OCIA; supporting the Partnership on Disability Ministry; offering parish outreach; recruiting and training parish leaders; evaluating evangelization efforts; supporting spiritual growth for both parishes and our team; overseeing Caregiver Spirituality and End of Life Ministry; adult faith formation; catechetical leader support; and planning diocesan pilgrimages. I also regularly meet with staff, priests, and parish personnel, serve as a liaison to pastors, and oversee the Spiritual Renewal and Awakening program, Family Life Ministry, and the Youth and Young Adults Ministry.
We are excited to move forward with our reimagined and renewed vision. We hope to offer new programs and ideas that strengthen faith and help people experience God’s love more deeply. The world needs to be reminded that we are all brothers and sisters in Christ and that God’s love and mercy are priceless gifts meant to be shared.
I ask for your prayers for this ministry—for all those who will serve in it and for all those it will serve. May it be a source of inspiration and support for our parishes as together we proclaim the Gospel and witness to Christ’s love in eastern Connecticut.
By Andrea Hoisl