Though the Scriptures say little about them, Saints Joachim and Anne hold a cherished place in Catholic tradition as the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. Celebrated on July 26, their feast day invites us to reflect on the sacred role of grandparents and the quiet, enduring power of faith passed down through generations. Joachim and Anne are believed to have been devout and prayerful people, longing for a child and trusting in God's providence through years of waiting. Their patient faith was rewarded not only with the birth of Mary bu...

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On Saturday, July 19th, middle school and high school youth from across the diocese gathered at Hurd State Park in East Hampton for a special “Hike with the Bishop” hosted by Bishop Richard Reidy. Under clear summer skies, the group set out on a morning hike through the park’s flexible trails, enjoying the perfect blend of fun, fresh air, and faith. Along the way, Bishop Reidy shared words of encouragement and spiritual reflection, inviting the youth to encounter God through the beauty of creation and meaningful conversation. With comfortable shoes, ...

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  Pope Leo XIV marked the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing with a video call to U.S. astronaut Buzz Aldrin and a visit to the Vatican Observatory, located on the papal estate of Castel Gandolfo, where he has been staying for two weeks. According to the Vatican, the pontiff’s July 20 call with the 95-year-old Aldrin, the last surviving Apollo 11 crew member, included reminiscing on the historic 1969 landing and meditating together on the “mystery, greatness, and fragility” of God’s creation as described in Psalm 8. Earlier ...

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Executive Director – Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti Location: Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti The Diocese of Norwich is seeking a full-time Executive Director for Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti. Mission As an expression of our Catholic Faith, Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti, a sponsored ministry of the Diocese of Norwich, is committed to serving the people of Haiti in the spirit and values of the Gospel. While providing sacramental and spiritual support, this ministry offers education, health care, and other services to Ha...

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A Summer Symphony of Faith From the Editor's Keyboard When I say this issue sings, I mean it literally. The July/August edition of the Four County Catholic is hot off the press—and whether you’re reading from a porch swing or poolside chair, I promise there’s something inside that will lift your spirit and maybe even make you hum a tune or two. Our cover story features Dr. Anne Halloran Tortora, a music educator whose life has been a crescendo of faith, talent, and service. A Grammy quarterfinalist (yes, those Grammys!), she’s shaping...

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WASHINGTON – Over 3,500 young adult pilgrims from across the United States gather in Rome for the Jubilee of Young People on July 30, and a livestream of the celebration will be available to allow those who are unable to attend to participate in the festivities. The event at the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls is organized by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), with the generous support of the Knights of Columbus. Other collaborators for the event include the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame, and the website...

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