North East Connecticut Spirituality in Action

Annual Lourdes In A Day Pilgrimage

Malades and caregivers unable to attend the annual Lourdes Pilgrimage can experience “Lourdes in a Day” at the St. Peter Claver Church in West Hartford, Connecticut. The Day includes Reconciliation, Rosary, Washing of the Feet, Anointing Mass, Adoration and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Benediction. Between 25 and 50 Knights, Dames, and Auxiliary provide malades and caregivers with the opportunity to receive the sacraments and join in prayer and spiritual growth. The Annual Lourdes in a Day Pilgrimage is jointly sponsored by the American and Federal Associations. This project originated in 2014.

Defense of the Faith

In Old Lyme, Connecticut, approximately 10 Knights, Dames, and Auxiliary join retired priests from the diocese of Norwich for Mass and dinner. This year’s Liturgy was celebrated by Chaplain, Bishop Michael Cote. Members prepare and serve the dinner and provide transportation for those in need of assistance. This project originated in 2016.

Malta March for Madonna

Ten Knights, Dames, and Auxiliary provide needed assistance to women and children at drop in center. This project originated in 2017.

New Life Ministry of Old Lyme, Connecticut

This reentry program provides mentoring, employment assistance, medical help, and temporary housing to women at the Janet York Correctional Facility in Niantic, Connecticut. Each year, about 8-10 Knights, Dames, and Auxiliary assist at monthly Mass, provide weekly Bible studies, and conduct retreat days, all on the York campus. This project originated in 2008.

PARTNER TO GROW Community Garden

The community garden at the local Valley Shore YMCA in Westbrook helps to feed the needy at the Shoreline Pantry while providing the opportunity for volunteers of all ages to learn about green crops and work together to provide fresh produce. A local Knight works weekly with volunteers from spring ground-breaking through peak summer harvests to fall shutdown.