The Area is growing with strong interest across the two Connecticut Dioceses, Hartford and Norwich, where hierarchy changes are in motion. We thank Area Affiliate Chair Paul, KM ’24 for initiating a wonderful event to bring members, affiliates, and prospects together from far and wide towns. Special thanks to Mark, KM & Cherith, DM who graciously opened their lovely home and gorgeous property upstate to us on Saturday, August 24th. The weather was picture perfect as you can see, void of recent strong storms. The Potluck “Table of Plenty” was covered with delicious wraps, chicken tenders, snacks, homemade salads, and yummy dessert delicacies.
It’s not possible to make frequent personal contact across the 100 miles in our seven Area counties, even in little Connecticut! Paul and Richard gave updates on the expanded Affiliate and Spirituality programs for the rest of the year. The attendees, who ranged in age from 15 to 90’s, forged several new ministry partnerships, like pro-life. For example, the rejuvenation of the Diocese Prison Ministry was described by Gina, Membership Chair. We were very pleased that Fr. Dennis could join us again from the Shoreline to speak about his Eastern Liturgy and special community ministries at his St. Ann Melkite Church.
Sterling, KM ’23 is also supporting a thirteen week FAITH OF OUR FATHERS series there from September 3rd on the Apostles Creed. Mark and Cherith explained the 10th Connecticut Lourdes in a Day service and asked for support in three weeks on September 14th; Area Hospitaller Bob O’Hara reinforced it with an example of a healing under examination from his 2024 Lourdes Pilgrimage.
The attendees graciously donated ad hoc cash towards the local WFSB CBS TV fundraiser to help victims of the recent catastrophic floods in the Naugatuck River Valley. Our Order of Malta picnic group was featured on their TOWN BY TOWN segment at 5:47pm to promote their cooperative donor program. A few affiliates and members of both Connecticut Areas live in the hardest hit towns. Special thanks to Grace Lindstrom from Holy Family Hospital in Bethlehem – Holy Land for providing lovely photo gift samples of the Advent Christmas tree tags.
We sincerely thank our hosts the Sullivans and all of the attendees for a very delightful Summer day. Best wishes to our upcoming Investitures of KM ’24 Paul, sponsor and Dr. John, who was on duty at the Boston Children’s Hospital; hopefully new Deputy Area Chaplains.
