September 20, 2023 The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D. D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy and diocesan appointment in the Diocese of Norwich   Reverend Marvin Bearis, OFM Cap., to Saint Pius X Parish, Middletown, Pastor. Effective:  September 1, 2023.      Reverend Peter J. Langevin, Chancellor    

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Do you remember the last time you heard a good story? It’s easy to become captivated by a compelling narrative or a fascinating myth. From novels or warm conversations over dinner to movies or even music, stories capture our imagination and shape the way we think about the world. As Catholics, we are confronted by a host of narratives that compete with, and often contradict, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We know, however, that God has revealed the true story of the whole world. The story of Christ is, as C.S. Lewis put it, “the true myth.” Jesus isn’t ...

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Sometimes, the best stories come from unexpected moments of inspiration. Recently, I had a unique experience attending Mass at St. Columba in Columbia. Originally, I hadn't planned on going there; the church I regularly attend had canceled the early Mass for the summer. At the same time, I was struggling to find a topic for this month's Four County Catholic article. Writer's block had hit me hard, and the deadlines were looming. During the Communion meditation, something remarkable happened. My eyes caught sight of a large plaque on the wall listing the corporal...

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If you think angels are chubby cheeked, bare-bottomed tots with wings, or maybe golden-haired ladies in white nightgowns playing harps, it’s time to take a look at St. Michael the Archangel, commander of the heavenly army. Leader of Heavenly Forces: Michael, who shares his Sept. 29 feast day with fellow archangels Gabriel and Raphael, is the leader of the heavenly forces in the eternal fight against Satan and the other fallen angels. If you’ve ever seen a picture of an intense looking angel armed with a helmet, sword, and shield, piercing a dragon with a l...

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Homilist, Deacon Mark Desroiser delivers an inspiring message at the September 26th vigil Mass to kick off the 40 Days for Life campaign in the Diocese of Norwich. This year, the 40 DAYS FOR LIFE campaign runs from Wednesday, September 27th through Sunday, November 5th. It is hoped that you will join pro-life people of all faiths by praying, fasting, and signing up to attend the 40 DAYS FOR LIFE peaceful prayer vigil held outside Planned Parenthood, 12 Case St., Norwich. Never done it before? There’s nothing to be afraid of. It’s not a protest. Here&rs...

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For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me” (Mt 25:35-36).   Pope Francis, in his message for the 2023 World Day of Migrants and Refugees, writes, “These words are a constant admonition to see in the migrant not simply a brother or sister in difficulty, but Christ himself, who knocks at our door.” The Church has celebrated World Day of Migrants and Refu...

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