Saint Mary Parish Guide
Come join us as we Live, Learn and Share our Faith
Saint Mary Parish
A Roman Catholic Family of Faith, Love and Service
Established 1881
Ridgefield, Connecticut
PAGE OF ADS – INSIDE FRONT COVER
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Saint Mary Parish
55 Catoonah Street
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Parish Office: (203) 438-6538, Fax: (203) 438-4406
Website: www.smcr.org
Dear Friends in Christ,
Welcome to our Saint Mary Parish Family. The cornerstone of our beautiful Church,
laid in July of 1896, represented the dreams of many Catholic immigrants who arrived in
the New World and worked together to build a new life rooted in their Roman Catholic
faith. For over a century and a quarter, Saint Mary Parish has continued to welcome all
newcomers and has warmly encouraged them to contribute their talents to the wider
community as they grow in their faith.
Today, we are still building on that same cornerstone, Jesus Christ. Responding to
the needs of this new millennium, while remaining firmly rooted in our history and faith,
our Parish has created a strategic plan, inviting all our members to contribute their
talents to over forty growing ministries that help us to live, learn and share our rich gift of
faith.
Our attached Parish Guide shows the many ways you can become more deeply
involved in our Family of Faith. In it you will find descriptions of various Parish services,
ministries and activities as well as useful contact information. Here at Saint Mary Parish
there is something for everyone at every age. Come to grow in faith and fellowship with
us.
As I thank our dedicated Parish staff and many volunteers who make possible all
that we do, may I express the hope that this Guide will inspire you to enter more fully
into the life of our vibrant Faith Community.
Very sincerely in Christ Jesus, Our Lord,
Msgr. Laurence R. Bronkiewicz
Pastor
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Table of Contents
Parish Staff and Services ............................................................... 5
Parish Staff .................................................................................... 5
Clergy ........................................................................................... 5
Religious ...................................................................................... 5
Lay ............................................................................................... 5
Lay Members of St. Mary Corporation .......................................... 5
Parish Operating Council, Team Leads ........................................ 6
Parish Finance Council ................................................................. 6
Parish Services ............................................................................. 7
Sacraments .................................................................................. 7
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) ................................... 8
Religious Education ...................................................................... 8
Music Ministry ............................................................................... 8
Saint Mary Cemetery .................................................................... 8
Saint Mary School ........................................................................ 8
Youth Ministry............................................................................... 9
Parish Ministries and Activities ..................................................... 9
Spirituality Team ........................................................................... 9
Altar Guild .................................................................................... 9
Altar Servers ................................................................................ 9
Baptism Stoles ............................................................................. 9
Cursillo .......................................................................................10
Disciples 4 Life ...........................................................................10
Divine Mercy ...............................................................................10
Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors ...............................................10
Men’s Ministry .............................................................................10
Mothers’ Club .............................................................................11
Music Ministry .............................................................................11
Perpetual Adoration ....................................................................11
Ushers and Greeters ..................................................................11
Catholic Action Team ..................................................................12
Birthright of Danbury ...................................................................12
Catholic Relief Services ..............................................................12
Catholic Women in Community (CWIC)…………………………… 12
Dorothy Day House of Hospitality ...............................................12
Knights of Columbus ...................................................................13
Midnight Run ..............................................................................13
Mission Society ...........................................................................13
Parish Nurse Program ................................................................13
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Stephen Ministry .......................................................................... 13
St. Peter’s Run ........................................................................... 14
Homebound Eucharistic Ministry ................................................ 14
Faith Formation Team ................................................................... 14
Baptism and Pre-Baptism Instruction ............................................ 14
Adult Religious Education ............................................................. 14
Natural Family Planning ................................................................. 15
Religious Education ...................................................................... 15
Respect Life .................................................................................. 15
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) .................................... 15
Saint Mary School ......................................................................... 16
Scripture Study ............................................................................. 16
Women’s Day of Recollection ....................................................... 16
Youth Ministry/Life Teen................................................................ 16
Social / Fellowship Team .............................................................. 16
CYO Basketball Program .............................................................. 17
Senior Citizens’ Mass and Luncheon ............................................ 17
Sewing & Crafts Guild ................................................................... 17
Welcome Committee ..................................................................... 17
Facilities Team............................................................................... 17
A Brick and a Prayer ..................................................................... 18
Cemetery ...................................................................................... 18
Facilities ........................................................................................ 18
Finance Team (a.k.a. Parish Finance Council) ............................ 18
Communications Team ................................................................. 19
Saint Mary Parish Online............................................................... 19
Index ............................................................................................... 20
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Parish Staff and Services
Parish Staff
Clergy
Office: (203) 438-6538
Fax: (203) 438-4406
Msgr. Laurence R. Bronkiewicz, Pastor, msgrlrb@smcr.org
Rev. Russell Augustine, Parochial Vicar, frruss@smcr.org
Rev. Peter Smolik, Parochial Vicar, frpeter@smcr.org
Deacon Jerry Lambert, gmlamb@optonline.net
Deacon Bob Salvestrini, salvo@aol.com
Religious
Office: (203) 438-7335
Director, Rel. Education
Assistant
Fax: (203) 438-6876
Sr. Joan Brennan, C.N.D., religioused@smcr.org
Sr. Margaret Brennan, C.N.D., religioused@smcr.org
Lay
Office: (203) 438-6538
Receptionist
Secretary
Accountant
Business Manager
Cemetery Director
Cemetery Sales
Facilities Manager
Maintenance
Music Director
Nurse
Youth Minister
Fax: (203) 438-4406
Rosalie Clarke, ext. 100, rosalie@smcr.org
Maria Arena, ext. 110, maria@smcr.org
Barbara Rizzo, ext. 106, brizzo@smcr.org
Ray Sturz, ext. 113, rsturz@smcr.org
Ray Sturz, ext. 113, rsturz@smcr.org
Donna Barber, ext. 114, dbarber@smcr.org
Liz Zaglauer, (203) 438-3114, liz@smcr.org
Phil Franceschini, Jim McElroy, Val Teixeira
Darren Motise, ext. 300, darren@smcr.org
Colleen Minchik, RN, (203) 431-8949
Laura Danner, (203) 438-2394, ldanner@smcr.org
Lay Members of St. Mary’s Corporation
In addition to the Diocesan Bishop or Administrator (in the absence of a Bishop), who
serves as President of St. Mary’s Corporation, a civil corporation in the State of
Connecticut, and Diocesan Vicar(s) General or Chancellor in the absence of a Bishop,
who serve as Vice Presidents, Msgr. Bronkiewicz, our Pastor, serves as
Secretary/Treasurer, along with two parishioners who are appointed each year to serve
as Lay Members of our Parish corporation. They are:
Nanette Bracken,brackennanette@yahoo.com, Richard Camuso, rcamuso@comcast.net
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Parish Operating Council, Team Leads
Executive Committee, Deacon Jerry Lambert, gmlamb@optonline.net
Executive Committee, Tim O’Connor, toconnor79@gmail.com
Executive Committee, Margaret Scally, mscally@snet.net
Catholic Action Team Lead, Mary Staudt, staudtmary@sbcglobal.net
Communications Team Lead, Rick Belmonte, rwbelmonte@comcast.net
Facilities Team Lead, Vince Falotico, vincent@brooksandfalotico.com
Faith Formation Team Lead, Janie Nneji, jnneji@aol.com
Finance Team Lead, Tony Giobbi, tonygiobbi@gmail.com
Spirituality Team Lead, Paul O’Connell, poconnell02@snet.net
Social / Fellowship Team Lead, TBD
Parish Finance Council
The three lay members of St. Mary’s Corporation, our Parish Business Manager,
Facilities Administrator and Parish Accountant attend Finance Council meetings but are
not members of the body. For additional information, please see page 18.
Msgr. Laurence Bronkiewicz, msgrlrb@smcr.org
Rev. Russell Augustine, frruss@smcr.org
Rev. Peter Smolik, frpeter@smcr.org
Chair, Tony Giobbi, tonygiobbi@gmail.com
Nanette Bracken, brackennanette@yahoo.com
Richard Camuso, rcamuso@comcast.net
Bob MacAvoy, rmacavoy@easton-consult.com
Ginny Passarelli, rapvkk@gmail.com
Barbara Rizzo, brizzo@smcr.org
Alicia Snakard, cpasnakard@aol.com
John Spera, John.Spera@us.pm.com
Ray Sturz, rsturz@smcr.org
Elizabeth Zaglauer, liz@smcr.org
Nick Perna, nickperna@aol.com
John Eppolito, eppoitoj@msn.com
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Parish Services
Sacraments
Eucharist - Mass Schedules
Weekend Masses
Saturday Vigil Masses at 4 PM and 5:30 PM in the Church
Sunday Masses at 7 AM, 9:30 AM and 11:15 AM in the Church
Sunday Masses at 8 AM, 10 AM, 12 Noon, 5 PM in the Parish Hall
Weekday Masses
7 AM and Noon in the Church, Saturday at 8 AM in the Church (Novena Mass)
Holy Days – 7 AM, 9 AM, Noon
Reconciliation - Confessions
Saturdays from 3-4 PM, or by appointment. For Advent and Lent, please see the
Bulletin.
Baptisms & Pre-Baptism Instruction
Baptisms are celebrated every Sunday at 12:30 PM, with the exception of Holy Days
and Holiday weekends. Please call the Parish Office to schedule a Baptism.
● The Pre-Baptism class, held the second Wednesday of every other month at 7:30
PM in the Barn, is required for new parents and parents who have not participated in
a pre-Baptism class within five years and wish to have a child baptized. Please call
the Parish Office to register for a Pre-Baptism class.
● Catholic godparents are required to obtain a sponsor certificate from their parish
stating that they are practicing Catholics in good faith and forward it to the Parish
Secretary at least one week before the Baptism. A non-Catholic Christian may also
act as a witness for a Baptism.
Contact: Parish Secretary, Maria Arena, (203) 438-6538, ext 110, maria@smcr.org
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Marriage & Marriage Preparation
Couples planning to marry should contact the Parish Secretary at least one year in
advance to schedule their wedding.
● At least nine months prior to the wedding date the future bride and groom should
begin preparation for their marriage and are expected to participate in the marriage
preparation program (Pre-Cana) offered by the Diocese of Bridgeport. A booklet on
preparing for marriage at Saint Mary Parish is available at our Parish Office.
● For schedules and other information about the Diocesan marriage preparation
program (Pre-Cana), see their website:
www.bridgeportdiocese.com/index.php/marriageprep
Contact: Parish Secretary, Maria Arena, (203) 438-6538, ext 110, maria@smcr.org
●
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Anointing of the Sick
Anyone who is seriously ill or preparing for surgery may arrange to receive the
Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick by contacting the Parish Office: (203) 438-6538.
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)
RCIA involves preparing un-baptized and baptized, but un-catechized adults for
initiation into full communion with the Catholic Church. RCIA general information
sessions typically begin in September and continue through November. These are
followed by weekly instructional classes in Scripture and Catholic doctrine beginning on
the first Sunday of Advent and continuing through Palm Sunday. To the extent possible,
the session schedule tries to accommodate the convenience of the participants.
Contact: Deacon Bob Salvestrini, (203) 438-2761, salvo@aol.com
Religious Education
Office: (203) 438-7335
Fax: (203) 438-6876
Director of Religious Education
Sr. Joan Brennan, CND, religioused@smcr.org
Assistant
Sr. Margaret Brennan, CND, religioused@smcr.org
Administrative Assistant
Nancy Cofone, religioused@smcr.org
Assistant
Dorian Peckham, dorian@smcr.org
For additional information, please see page 15, or contact: religioused@smcr.org
Music Ministry
Director of Music and Organist: Darren Motise, (203) 438-6538, ext 300,
darren@smcr.org
For additional information, please see page 11.
Saint Mary Cemetery
Office: (203) 438-3606
Fax: (203) 438-7906
Director: Ray Sturz, rsturz@smcr.org Sales: Donna Barber, dbarber@smcr.org
For additional information, please see page 18.
Saint Mary School
The School, awarded the Blue Ribbon by the U.S. Department of Education, and the
Diocesan Award for Excellence, is one of 33 elementary schools in our Diocesan
System. Preschool through eighth grade. Principal: Anna O’Rourke, (203) 438-7288,
orourkea@smsridgefield.org.
For additional information, please see page 16, or visit: www.smsridgefield.org
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Youth Ministry
Youth Minister: Laura Danner, (203) 438-2393, ldanner@smcr.org
For additional information, please see page 16.
Parish Ministries and Activities
During our Parish strategic planning process, seven areas of Parish life were identified,
with a planning team assigned to each. Now in the implementation phase of our Parish
strategic plan, each of the seven teams, represented on our Parish Operating Council,
works with our Parish Staff in coordinating the ministries, programs and activities in
those seven areas. All of our Parish ministries are linked to the work of one or more
Teams.
Spirituality Team
Mission: to foster the spiritual growth of our parishioners and our community as a
whole, utilizing all Parish spiritual resources.
Team lead: Paul O’Connell, (203) 438-7202, poconnell02@snet.net
Altar Guild
Join the Altar Guild in caring for the altars where Mass is celebrated and in enhancing
the beauty of our worship spaces through floral and other kinds of decorations.
Contact: Anita Barrios, (203) 431-6705, anitabarri@aol.com
Altar Servers
We encourage boys and girls in fourth grade and above to become altar servers. Altar
server teams of four are scheduled for two weekend Masses each month and are also
called upon to serve at weddings and other special celebrations.
Contact: Richard Camuso, (203) 438-2244, rcamuso@comcast.net
Baptism Stoles
Baptism stoles are lovingly made by parishioners for children baptized in our Church
and are given to the child as a gift from the Parish on Baptism Day.
Contact: Parish Office, (203) 438-6538
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Cursillo
A “men’s only” and a “women’s only” Cursillo weekend retreat is held both in the spring
and fall of each year at a retreat house in Danbury. It focuses on practicing our Catholic
faith, supported by the faith community. The Cursillo experience helps people discover
and fulfill their personal vocations and promotes the formation of core groups dedicated
to the practice of Gospel values. Many of our parishioners have participated in this
retreat and encourage others to consider attending a Cursillo.
Contact: George Schuster, (203) 438-3280
Disciples 4 Life
Disciples 4 Life Retreat is an adult weekend retreat open to all men and women of the
Parish over the age of 18. The leaders of the retreat, which focuses on discipleship, are
men and women of our Parish. The retreat is offered twice a year at the Seton
Neumann Center in Danbury, CT.
Contact: Angelina Falotico, (203) 431-1394, angelina@brooksandfalotico.com
Divine Mercy
A ministry of prayer inspired by St. Faustina and her devotion to divine mercy, rooted in
the words of Christ to her: “Trust in My Mercy and be merciful to others." It is celebrated
on Divine Mercy Sunday with the prayer called the Chaplet of Mercy and also by the
Novena to Divine Mercy.
Contact: Elly Pesce, (203) 431-6983.
Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (Eucharistic Ministers) assist with the
distribution of Holy Communion at Mass and some also take Communion to the
homebound. Lectors read the Old and New Testament readings at Mass in addition to
introducing the Mass, the ministers and making any necessary announcements. Both
ministries serve the beauty and solemnity of the Eucharist.
Contact: Richard Camuso, (203) 438-2244, rcamuso@comcast.net
Men’s Ministry
Our Men’s Ministry provides a forum for men to share their faith with each other, grow in
their spirituality and be of service to our Parish and the wider community. We are
always looking for men to become involved in this very exciting and enriching ministry.
We meet every Saturday from 6:30-8:00 AM in the Saint Mary School Hall. See our
website: www.stmmm.org for more details.
Contact: Timothy O’Connell, (203) 903-4846, timothytoconnell@gmail.com
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Mothers’ Club
The Mothers’ Club provides an opportunity for women to grow in the knowledge and
practice of their faith and to be of service to the Parish and wider community while
supporting one another. Its activities fall into one of four categories: spiritual,
philanthropic, social and child-oriented. The Mothers’ Club organizes the annual
Christmas Giving Tree which helps many local charities. It also runs our annual summer
Vacation Bible School. Among its other activities are an annual women’s morning of
recollection, an active book club and activities for Parish pre-school children. The
Mothers’ Club is always looking for new members! We offer a great opportunity for
spiritual growth, fellowship and good works. Anyone interested please call one of the
Presidents. When the time is right, we encourage you to jump right in and meet some
of the great ladies and families of Saint Mary Parish.
Contacts:
Alison
Mosiello,
alisonmosiello@gmail.com,
Lisa
Schoenherr,
tlshaner@yahoo.com, Janine Trench@sbcglobal.net
Music Ministry
The Music Ministry of our Parish enhances our public worship with the help of several
volunteer performing groups, including a traditional choir, which sings each Sunday at
the 9:30 AM Mass, and contemporary vocal and instrumental ensembles including the
weekly Life Teen Music Ministry and a children's choir. Parishioners who love music or
who play an instrument are welcome to contact our Parish Music Director for more
information.
Contact: Darren Motise, (203) 438-6539, ext. 300, darren@smcr.org
Perpetual Adoration
A ministry of prayer practiced in our Adoration Chapel where the Blessed Sacrament is
exposed around the clock. Men and women pray silently in the Chapel every day of the
year (except from Holy Thursday after the Mass of the Lord’s Supper until Easter
Sunday morning). The Chapel is located on the right side of the Saint Mary School
building. Parishioners are encouraged to sign up for one hour a week in prayer before
the Blessed Sacrament.
Contacts: Monica and Bill Brown, (914) 533-2832, or the Parish office at (203) 4386538.
Ushers and Greeters
Ushers and greeters are needed at all weekend liturgies and holy days of obligation to
greet, assist individuals in finding seats, take up the collection and organize the
offertory procession. Substitute ushers and greeters are also needed. Open to all men
and women, young and old.
Contact: Fr. Russell Augustine, (203)438-6538, ext 119, frruss@smcr.org
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Catholic Action Team
Mission: to educate the parishioners on Catholic Social Teaching and provide
opportunities to put it into practice through social outreach ministries and good
works. We coordinate charitable projects among other ministries that address needs
within and beyond the borders of Saint Mary Parish.
Team Lead: Mary Staudt, (203)431-9849, staudtmary@sbcglobal.net
Birthright of Danbury
Helping women in crisis pregnancies. Volunteers are always needed, as well as baby
clothes and maternity clothes.
Contact: Mev Rickert, (203) 790-7094, nanamev@att.net
Catholic Relief Services
A worldwide Catholic agency providing emergency relief services to those in need
across our planet. Recent areas of assistance include Haiti and Japan.
Contact: www.crs.org
Catholic Women in Community (CWIC)
Strives to build goodwill and unity among women of all ages and stages in the Parish.
Scheduled throughout the year, the “CWIC Open House” offers opportunities for
socializing, friendship, spiritual growth, and spiritual discussions on a broad range of
issues related to our Catholic Faith. It also offers the opportunity to hear about other
parish events, ministries, and volunteer opportunities.
Contact: Angelina Falotico (203) 431-1394, angelina@brooksandfalotico.com
Dorothy Day House of Hospitality
There are three ways Saint Mary parishioners help the Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen and
Shelter: one Sunday a month parishioners work at the soup kitchen cooking, serving,
and greeting; another group makes the sandwiches in our Saint Mary School kitchen to
take to Dorothy Day; and some volunteers also spend an overnight at the shelter.
Regular volunteers and substitutes are always needed.
Contacts: Michael & Mary Ann Hnath, (203) 438-6453, hnath@sbcglobal.net
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Knights of Columbus
The Marquette Council of the Knights of Columbus, a 113 year old institution, is
devoted to serving our Parish and the wider community. Men wishing to deepen their
faith through service are always welcome to join. We are a small but committed group
guided by the simple principles of Charity, Fraternity, Unity and Patriotism which have
been guiding the Knights throughout our history. Help us continue our tradition of
service. Become a Knight.
Contact: Thad Belfanti, (203) 431-1492, gk@KofC245.org, www.KofC245.org
Midnight Run
Saint Mary Parish participates in an area-wide program that takes food, clothing, and
toiletries to those living on the streets of New York City and tries to create a relationship
of trust, sharing, understanding and affection with those it serves. Midnight runners
collect and sort items of clothing and prepare food for distribution. Vans used for
transport belong to the “Midnight Run” organization.
Contact: Elma Stoveken, (203) 894-1341, jstoveken@comcast.com
Mission Society
Fathers Greg and Peter Short, sons of our Parish and graduates of Saint Mary School,
are missionaries serving in South America and the Philippines respectively. The Annual
Mission Boutique directly assists them by raising funds for their missions. Throughout
the year, Mrs. Peg Short and her committee gather unique and valuable items which
are sold at the boutique in November.
Contact: Peg Short, (203) 438-8281, bps53@sbcglobal.net
Parish Nurse Program
The Parish Nurse Program uses a holistic approach to promote health and healing.
Contact: Colleen Minchik, R.N., (203) 431-8949.
Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is an outreach program that brings Christ’s healing love to people
suffering everything from illness and grief to family troubles and job loss. Lay Stephen
Ministers from our Parish receive fifty hours of training in providing confidential,
emotional and spiritual care to individuals in our Parish experiencing difficulty in their
lives. The Stephen Ministers will be working in collaboration with our Pastor, other
Clergy members of the Parish and our Stephen Leaders, Mary Ann O’Grady and Mary
Belmonte. Information regarding the Ministry is available from Mary Ann O’Grady at
203-438-5610,
mannog@aol.com
or
Mary
Belmonte
at
203-244-5232,
mcdarlin99@yahoo.com
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St. Peter’s Run
St. Peter’s Run provides approximately 100 lunches for distribution to families and
individuals every Saturday between 11:30 AM and 1 PM at St. Peter’s Parish in
Bridgeport. St. Peter’s Run volunteers obtain the lunch items, (i.e., food, snacks,
drinks), prepare the food, take it to St. Peter Parish and distribute it to those in need.
Individuals and group volunteers can select and reserve dates online through our
Parish web site, www.smcr.org.
Contact: Mary Staudt, (203) 431-9849, staudtmary@sbcglobal.net
Homebound Eucharistic Ministry
Each Sunday, Eucharistic Ministers visit homebound parishioners, and also residents at
Laurel Ridge Health Care Center, Ridgefield Congregate Housing and the Ridgefield
Crossing Assisted Living Residence. To receive the Eucharist or to help with this
ministry or to receive a visit and the Eucharist, please contact: Lloyd Jensen, (203)
438-4435, lloyd.jensen@sbcglobal.net
Faith Formation Team
Mission: to help form the Catholic faith of our parishioners at all ages and stages.
Team lead: Janie Nneji, (203) 431-7675, jnneji@aol.com
Baptism and Pre-Baptism Instruction
For additional information, please see page 7.
Contact: Parish Secretary, Maria Arena, (203) 438-6538, ext 110, maria@smcr.org
Adult Religious Education
Our goal is to provide the adult learners of the Parish opportunities to learn more about
their Catholic Faith through Speakers Series, Retreats, and the offering of the Diocesan
St. Cyril School of Jerusalem mini courses on the Creed, Sacraments, Christian Living,
Prayer, and Scripture. Contact: Janie Nneji, (203) 431-7675, jnneji@aol.com
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Natural Family Planning
Natural family planning is a highly effective and natural means of fertility awareness.
Not only can it be used to plan or prevent pregnancy, it can also help in the diagnosis of
problems associated with the woman's cycle. In this shared system, the responsibility
of its use is placed equally on both spouses.
Contact: Michelle Daniels, CFCP, (203) 731-7489, fertilitycaresvcs@sbcglobal.net
Religious Education
One of our fundamental obligations is to pass on our Catholic faith to our children. We
are a pilgrim people, journeying in the company of the Lord. We are fed on our pilgrim
way; by the Word of God, by the Sacraments, and by one another. Catechists are
always needed for our very large Religious Education program, and training and
support are provided by our Religious Education Staff and the Diocese.
Contacts: Sr. Joan Brennan, CND, Sr. Margaret Brennan, CND, Mrs. Nancy Cofone,
Mrs. Dorian Peckham, religioused@smcr.org
Respect Life
The mission of the Respect Life Committee is to proclaim the Gospel of life and work
toward the implementation of the USCCB “Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities.” It seeks
to promote the culture of life, changing hearts and minds via educational efforts, and
supporting post-abortion healing, pregnancy advisory services and adoption.
● Activities: We annually sponsor a “March for Life” bus trip to Washington, D.C. and
participation in the Danbury Life Chain and the Fairfield County 40 Days for Life. We
post billboards and prepare bulletin inserts with educational messages, and support
Birthright and Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats.
● Web site: www.stmaryrespectlife.org
Contacts: Hank Vosswinkel, (203) 545-0989, voss1000@aol.com, John Papa, (203)
947-0713, john.papa@ipreo.com
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)
RCIA involves preparing un-baptized and baptized, but un-catechized adults for
initiation into full communion with the Catholic Church. For additional information,
please see 8.
Contact: Deacon Bob Salvestrini, (203) 438-2761, salvo@aol.com
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Saint Mary School
Saint Mary School in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is a Roman Catholic, co-educational day
school for students grades Pre-K through Grade 8. Our school is a true community of
staff, clergy, and parents all dedicated to the holistic education of each child. Academic
excellence developed in a faith-filled environment has far reaching and long term
benefits that strengthens the present and future lives of our students. Saint Mary School
is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and is honored
to be a winner of the 2010 Blue Ribbon School award, and the Diocese of Bridgeport
Excelsior Award.
Contact: Mrs. Anna O’Rourke, Principal, (203) 438-7288, orourkea@smsridgefield.org,
www.smsridgefield.org
Scripture Study
Enrich your understanding of the Bible and what it means to live our Catholic faith.
Monday and Tuesday morning sessions are offered, as well as Monday evenings.
Contacts: Morning sessions: Mary Jo Calamai, (203) 431-1309, mjcalamai@gmail.com
Evening sessions: Beverly Scott, (914)763-6243, bscott@scottassociatesllc.com
Women’s Day of Recollection
A formative and spiritual half-day that also combines a social element. This is a
Eucharistic centered retreat with Confession offered throughout. As they are held
periodically please check the Parish Bulletin for announcements.
Contact: Michelle Daniels, (203) 438-2645, daniels.michelle@sbcglobal.net
Youth Ministry/Life Teen
Saint Mary Parish has an active Life Teen program for teenage parishioners in
freshman through senior year of high school. Life Teen gathers for the Sunday 5 pm
Mass, which is followed by dinner and a Life Night at 6 pm in the Parish Hall.
Contact:
Laura Danner, Youth Minister, (203) 438-2394, ldanner@smcr.org,
www.smrlifeteen.com
Social / Fellowship Team
Mission: to plan and coordinate various Parish social events in order to strengthen the
sense of community in our Parish Family – our Fall Festival; Lenten Fish Friday
Dinners; Pasta Night; Parish Mass and Picnic at Ballard Park in June; St. Patrick’s Day
Dinner/Dance, St. Valentine’s Mass and Dinner and Dance, etc.
Contact: TBD, (203) 438-6538.
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CYO Basketball Program
We have a very active basketball program for boys and girls grades five through eight.
Our teams compete with other area Catholic Youth Organizations (CYO), as well as
school and town teams. Our home court is the Nancy Bossidy Recreation Center in the
Saint Mary School building.
Contact: Jack Jancin, (203) 748-3808
Senior Citizens’ Mass and Luncheon
This monthly get together begins with the Rosary at 11:30 am, followed by Mass and
luncheon in our Parish Hall. During the luncheon, we celebrate birthdays and other
special occasions as well as holy days and holidays.
Contact: Religious Education Office (203) 438-7335, religioused@smcr.org
Sewing & Crafts Guild
Our Sewing & Craft Guild's main activity is to make items for the Fall Festival, which
involves expert sewing, knitting, and crocheting. One of the highlights of the Fall
Festival is the very beautiful Quilt raffled off during the Festival. All proceeds go directly
to Saint Mary Parish.
Contact: Carmel Battista, (203) 438-3482, mabattista@sbcglobal.net
Welcome Committee
The new parishioner Welcome Committee, currently being formed, provides a warm
welcome to new members of Saint Mary Parish by reaching out to them via phone,
emails, home visits, and special events.
Contact: TBD
Facilities Team
Mission: to help oversee the care, maintenance and use of all Parish properties and
buildings, to recommend enhancements and improvements when necessary, and to
develop a capital planning budget as well as long-term property and building plans.
Team lead: Vince Falotico, vincent@brooksandfalotico.com
17
A Brick and a Prayer
A gift that will last. Order your special brick customized with the inscription of your
choice for placement in the courtyard in front of Saint Mary Church.
Contact: Maria Arena, (203) 438-6538, ext 110, maria@smcr.org
Cemetery
Saint Mary Cemetery is one of four parish-owned and operated cemeteries in the
Diocese of Bridgeport. Because of our Catholic respect for those who have died and
have gone before us marked with the sign of faith, great care is taken to insure that our
Cemetery is well maintained and managed in a manner that honors those buried there
as well as their families. Because our Church plays an active role in the town of
Ridgefield, and recognizing that many Catholic are married to non-Catholic spouses, we
welcome the burial of members of other faiths. Our Cemetery, located on the corner of
North Street and Copps Hill Road, also has a very attractive Columbarium for those
who opt for cremation of their remains.
Contacts: Ray Sturz, (203) 438-6538, ext 113, rsturz@smcr.org, or Donna Barber,
(203) 733-4658 (Cell)
Facilities
Includes the following: Church, Parish Office, School (including Parish Hall and Nancy
Bossidy Recreation Center), Barn, various parking lots, Parish Cemetery and various
rental properties with buildings.
Contact for facility usage and rental: Liz Zaglauer, Facilities Manager, (203) 438-3114,
liz@smcr.org
Finance Team (a.k.a. Parish Finance Council)
Mission: to assist the Pastor in the management of all aspects of Parish finances in
accordance with universal Church law (Code of Canon Law) and Diocesan policy. Since
the Parish Finance Council is advisory to the Pastor, its recommendations must be
ratified by him. The Council meets monthly and presents a quarterly financial report to
the Parish. It also oversees the preparation of an annual Parish budget, in collaboration
with the Parish Operating Council, and presents that budget to the Pastor for approval.
Team lead: Tony Giobbi, (203) 431-7686, tonygiobbi@gmail.com
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Communications Team
Mission: to help Saint Mary Parish Staff, Parish Operating Council, Teams and
Ministries communicate with each other more effectively and to craft important
messages for dissemination to parishioners and the wider Ridgefield community using
many media formats including weekend Bulletins, Mass announcements, periodic
newsletters, our online website and an interactive Facebook page as well as town hall
meetings.
Team lead: Rick Belmonte, rwbelmonte@comcast.net
Saint Mary Parish Online
Our Saint Mary Parish web page can be found at www.smcr.org. Here you can find the
weekly Bulletin, a Parish calendar of events, an up-to-date listing of all our ministries,
important announcements and more!
And we're on Facebook too. The latest info and important updates can be found here, in
addition to photos from various Parish events. Find us by searching for "St. Mary
Roman Catholic Church" on www.facebook.com. Contact us @ webteam@smcr.org
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Index
A
A Brick and a Prayer, 18
Adult Religious Education, 14
Altar Guild, 9
Altar Servers, 9
Anointing of the Sick, 8
B
Baptism Stoles, 9
Baptisms & Pre-Baptism
Instruction, 7
Birthright of Danbury, 12
C
Catholic Action Team, 12
Catholic Relief Services, 12
Catholic Support Group for the
Separated and Divorced, 12
Catholic Women in Community, 12
Cemetery, 18
Clergy, 5
Communications Team, 19
Cursillo, 10
CYO Basketball Program, 17
D
Disciples 4 Life, 10
Divine Mercy, 10
Dorothy Day House of Hospitality,
12
E
Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors,
10
F
Facilities, 18
Facilities Team, 17
Faith Formation Team, 14
Finance Team (a.k.a. Parish
Finance Council), 18
K
Knights of Columbus, 13
L
Lay Members of St. Mary
Corporation, 5
Lay Staff, 5
Life Teen, 16
M
Marriage & Marriage Preparation,
7
Mass Schedules, 7
Men’s Ministry, 10
Middle School Ministry, 14
Midnight Run, 13
Mission Society, 13
Mothers’ Club, 11
Music Ministry, 11
20
N
Natural Family Planning, 15
O
Online, 19
P
Parish Finance Council, 6
Parish Nurse Program, 13
Parish Operating Council, Team
Leads, 6
Parish Services, 7
Parish Staff, 5
Perpetual Adoration, 11
R
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of
Adults), 8
Reconciliation - Confessions, 7
Religious, 5
Religious Education, 15
Religious Education Staff, 8
Respect Life, 15
S
Sacraments, 7
School, 16
Scripture Study, 16
Senior Citizens’ Mass and
Luncheon, 17
Sewing & Crafts Guild, 17
Social / Fellowship Team, 16
Spirituality Team, 9
St. Peter’s Run, 14
Stephen Ministries, 13
U
Ushers and Greeters, 11
V
Homebound Eucharistic Ministry,
14
W
Welcome Committee, 17
Women’s Day of Recollection, 16
Y
Youth Ministry/Life Teen, 9
21
NOTES
22
SAINT MARY PARISH
55 Catoonah Street
Ridgefield, CT 06877
203-438-6538
23