The blessing of prayer shawls, knit by members of the Compassion Ministry, took place at all masses during a weekend in February, 2008. These shawls will be presented to members of the parish community who are experiencing a medical or personal challenge.
As a Social Outreach-Compassion Ministry Lenten project, parishioners generously filled approximately 100 beautiful Easter baskets full of thoughtful items to be distributed to families and senior citizens. These acts of charity brought smiles to the faces of many.
Also, photos of Easter Sunday mass at Church of the Holy Family on March 23, 2008.
The stained glass windows at Church of the Holy Family, installed in the winter of 2006, are the result of a dream that dates back to early members of the parish and are a testament to the fact that when many in the community come together, dreams can come true. The work represented in the actual production of the completed windows is a result of over 400 hours of stewardship by parishioners Donna Howell, Ed Pontbriant, Nick Buonocore, Peter & Lori Zagaja and wood craftman, Bob Lataille with assistance from Father Michael and also Jeff Vail of Plum Gully Stained Glass, LLC. A fund was started in memory of parishioner, Gloria Malecky and with additional donations in memory of Kevin Pearl, community member, the dream became reality.
On March 6, 2009 the front door of the church was graced with a new stained glass window of a dove designed, created and installed by the same group of artists/parishioners.
The Church of the Holy Family Golf Tournament, an annual fundraiser was held on September 19, 2008 at the Blackledge Country Club. It was a great day of golfing, sunshine and fun for a good cause.
The Music Ministry at Church of the Holy Family is a vital and lively one. It is never too late to join any of our musical groups: Praise Band, Adult Choir or Children's Choir. New members are always welcome - attend a rehearsal and see if this ministry is for you.
Padre's Run 2009, the 9th Annual event was held on June 14. On a beautiful sunny morning, a Memorial Mass was held followed by a blessing of motorcycles by Father Michael and well wishes from State Rep. Pamela Sawyer. A procession of over 100 bikers then proceeded from the church parking lot through the New England countryside led by Father Michael. The bikers returned to the church hall for a BBQ luncheon, music and camraderie. This year's fundraising effort benefits US soldiers serving our country.
Saturday, August 1, 2009 marked our First Annual "Blessing of the Clowns" at Church of the Holy Family. It was a beautiful way to celebrate International Clown Week. Eight clowns participated, include four clowns from our parish's Clown Ministry. Our 'Caring Clowns' are trained and visit many local nursing home residents on a regular basis. What a special ministry of love, hugs and compassion! At this 'colorful' event, the clowns greeted parishioners, served as lectors and musicians, and hosted a very special Liturgy of the Word for children in attendance. We look forward to many more Clown Blessings in the years to come!
Spirit Weekend was recently held at the Church of the Holy Family. Parishioners were invited under "the big tent" to learn about the many volunteer stewardship opportunities in our parish community. Together we can accomplish our dreams!
The 4th annual Healing Mass & Luncheon was held on June 7, 2009. The event, hosted by members of the Compassion Ministry, was especially meaningful to those seeking physical, emotional and spiritual healing. During the Mass, Father Michael administered the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. A luncheon followed in the church hall.
"The chair of the priest celebrant must signify his office of presiding over the gathering and of directing the prayer." - GIRM 310
One of our parishioners, Robert Lataille, created this new Presider's Chair which I think is beautiful and I am most grateful for the gift of his hands. You will notice on the upper back of the chair the Greek word, "AGAPE" which means "unconditional love." I believe the word, "AGAPE" is central to the love that God and Christ have for us as well as the love we receive and the love we share with our sisters and brothers. I pray that as you look upon this Presider's Chair you will be embraced by the spirit of this love - AGAPE.
The annual "Spirit Weekend" was held in September. Parishioners were invited under the "Big Tent" to enjoy light refreshments while learning about the many opportunities available to join the committees and ministries of Church of the Holy Family and shared their stewardship with others.
The annual tag sale-craft fair to benefit Haiti was recently held on the church grounds Great food, crafts and bargains were enjoyed by all for a good cause.
Four times each year, parishioners at Church of the Holy Family volunteer at the Covenant Soup Kitchen in Willimantic, CT. There are opportunities for parishioners to prepare the meal and/or to serve visitors to the Soup Kitchen on the day of service.
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." - 1 Peter 4:10
(J.Golino photos)
Padre's Run 2010
This year's 10th Annual Padre's Run was a huge success. A warm summer morning ~ a beautiful and spiritual Mass said by Father Michael attended by over 100 motorcycle riders joined by many parishioners and friends ~ The American Legion Color Guard ~ a special "Anthem" song by our young parishioner ~ T-shirts & hats ~ Breakfast by the American Legion ~ Special Guest Representative Pam Sawyer ~ Pledge of Allegiance ~ Blessing of the Bikes ~ Motorcycle "parade" lead by CT State Police and Father Michael ~ Barbeque Luncheon, Music and Prizes ... all to benefit our US troops. (B. Ulkus photos)
