Our Calendar — Parish News

Volunteers needed for Stratford Day:  Our parish will have a kielbasa and sauerkraut food booth on Main Street at Stratford Day, Saturday, June 7.  Volunteers are needed on an hourly basis from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. to prepare and sell sandwiches.  Please sign up at the easel in the lobby or contact Richard Lasecki (378-1479) or Bishop Anthony (377-9901).  This is a fundraiser for our parish budget.  Please help.

Ballroom Dance—June 14:  The parish Men’s Society will hold a Ballroom Dance from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 14th (Flag Day).  Vivian will play favorite ballroom and line dance music.  Tables may be reserved for 8 or 10 people.  The cost is $15 per person, which includes admission, snacks, hot dog, pastry, coffee and for the evening: regular and light beer, red and white wine, diet and regular soda, de-caf and regular coffee and tea.  Dance reservations MUST BE MADE IN ADVANCE by calling (203) 377-9901.  Admission is payable at the door and only those who are 21 or older will be admitted.

50-50 Raffle:  The Men’s Society has started selling chances for a 50-50 raffle to be drawn on Father’s Day.  Society members will be available before and after every Mass until June 15.

Mother’s Day Breakfast:  We thank Mark Trenske, Fred Clemente, Frank Christianson and Chris Lickteig for the fine job they did preparing the breakfast last Sunday.  We also thank everyone who stayed for it!!

Stuffed Cabbage for Sale:   Go to the kitchen for three or four stuffed cabbages frozen and packed in tin for $6. 

Share Your Recipes: The Women’s Society is publishing a cookbook, which will include for all seasons and holidays: hors d’oeuvres, salads, soups, main entrees and desserts.  Contribute your favorite and tried recipes in the basket at the back of church or mail them in.  Be sure to include your name and phone number on each recipe.

Spojnia (Spoon-yah) Meeting—June 22:  Members of the Polish National Union of America, which is the fraternal insurance organization for the PNC Church, are invited by District Director Kristen Kopka to attend a meeting with PNU President Irene Jugan at Holy Trinity Parish in Webster, Mass.  Dinner is included, but reservations must be made with Kristen.  Come and learn of the new plans for the PNU and about out current insurance, annuity and credit union offerings.  The meeting starts at 3 p.m.  Kristen and Bishop will both drive.

Young Men—Ages 15 to 25:  Not sure if you are being called to become a priest, or think you are called?  Either way, register with Bishop Anthony to attend the “Discernment Weekend” to figure it all out.  Even if you think you may want to consider the priesthood, contact Bishop.  It’s all free to attend, meals included.  Starts Friday at 3 p.m. on June 20, ends at 11 a.m. on Sunday, June 21.  It will take place at our seminary in Scranton PA.

Father's Day Breakfast--June 15:    Bring your fathers, your whole family and your friends to the Father’s Day Mass at 9:30 a.m., Sunday, June 15th, and then to the annual Father’s Day Breakfast at 10:30 a.m.  Mothers and youth will prepare a very special breakfast of fresh-cut fruit, sausage in a pancake wrap, orange juice, hard roll and coffee, tea or milk.  All this for a freewill offering!

Stuffed Cabbage Supper:

On Saturday, April 19, we hosted about 150 people, eating in or taking out meals.  The menu included stuffed cabbage, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, rye bread, beverage and French fudge roll ice cream.  Stuffed cabbages have been freshly frozen, three or four to a tin (depending on the size of each stuffed cabbage), and are available for $6 per tin.  Call or stop by the kitchen.

Gift Basket Raffle:  

We held the drawings for 12 themed gift baskets on April 19.  The winners were: Veronica Trenske (2 baskets), Helen Reynolds, James Nelson, Abby Nelson, Michelle Andorka, Carol Murdzia, Paul Lonzenski, Kathy Smith, Marianne Charabowski, Ed Steigauf and Phil London.  We thank everybody who participated in the raffle.  We especially thank the following members who so generously donated the gifts for this raffle:   Susan Lewandowski (2), Florence Rasmussen (2), Linda Barry, Ronald Beach, Lynda Desrosiers, Darlene Kopka, Carol Murdzia, Dolores Smith, Patti Squezello, Ann Stockman and Veronica Trenske.

Mission & Evangelism Workshop:

Deacon Masulli, Jean Macionus, Susan and John Lewandowski attended this national PNCC program at Blessed Trinity, in Fall River MA. Bishop Anthony offered the opening Mass, led a prayer service, and gave a presentation about our parish's use of the media and how parishes can obtain free publicity in the media.

Thank you:

For organizing and holding the 1st Annual Country Dinner and Dance on Sat., April 5th:  Chair-Shawn Norris, Linda & Wendell Barry, Marianne Charabowski, Mary DiMenna, Becky Klein, Darlene & Kristen & Lauren Kopka, Ken Krasko, John & Susan Lewandowski, Kathy Norris, Sean Owens, Joe Shandrowski, Harold & Kathy Smith, Patti Squezello, Mark Trenske.  We also thank Shawn & Kathy Norris, Mark Trenske, Becky Klein, Patti Squezello, Harold & Kathy Smith for their generous donations toward the dance.  Almost 100 attended, including our special guests, the Father Paul Dudeck family, from Holy Saviour PNC Church in Union City, Conn.

Pasta & Race Night—May 3: 

Plan now to come with guests to the St. Joseph’s and Bridgeport Host Lions Club’s charity fundraising event:  Pasta & Race Night on Saturday, May 3rd.  We start with seating and then antipasto and refreshments at 6 p.m.  A complete Pasta Dinner with ziti, meatballs and sausage at 7 p.m.  After dinner, “armchair racing” as we cheer on our horses shown racing at undisclosed race tracks on videotape.  Admission, dinner and refreshments for the night is only $15 per person.  Call 377-9901 for reservations.  Tables of 8 or 10 may be reserved.

Foxwoods Bus Trip:

The Young Men’s Society of Resurrection will once again charter a casino bus.  The day before Mother’s Day, on Saturday, May 10th, we will leave from the church parking lot promptly at 8:30 a.m. for Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, Conn.  We will leave the casino at 4 p.m.  It is about an hour and 45 minutes drive and the trip cost is only $25 per person.  Everyone will receive a $25 value in gaming and food coupons!  Call 377-9901 to reserve a seat.

Parish Anniversary Mass and Banquet:

We welcomed the relatives and friends who joined our parish members to bring to a formal close the CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY and to begin our SECOND CENTURY OF FAITH ! A total of 120 purchased tickets for the banquet on Feb. 17., which was served immediately after the 11 a.m. Mass.  Chairman Ken Krasko welcomed everyone and grace was offered by Deacon Masulli.  A roast beef dinner with mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, fruit cup, roll, brownie with ice cream and beverage was served.  The kitchen crew was headed by Mark Trenske, Fred Clemente and Christopher Lickteig.  The day before help was given by Darlene Kopka, Jeanne Laskey, Jean Macionus, Debbie Steele, Carol Murdzia, Ronald Beach, Art and Lee Niedzielski, Marianne Charabowski, Dolores Smith, Sean Owens and Bishop.  We thank them and all those who are helped to serve and clean up today, especially Ken Krasko, John Lewandowski, Ed Slonina, Jan Chernesky, Paul Lonzenski, Sean Owens, Kristen Kopka, Darlene Kopka and Jean Macionus.  Lisa Vasas sang to close the banquet and Bishop Anthony offered the principal address and final blessing.

Military Fundraiser:

The pasta supper we prepared and served on Feb. 9th in conjunction with the Blue Star Mothers and Families of Stratford was highly successful.  Over $3,000 in profit was made to send to our servicemen and women in Iraq items that they need as well as gifts to let them know we are thinking of them.  We thank for their work: Jan Chernesky, Meg & Ken Krasko, Carol Murdzia, Bertha Grabowski, Darlene Kopka, Linda & Wendell Barry, Jean Macionus, Dolores Smith, Marianne Charabowski, Veronica Trenske, Mary DiMenna, Theadora Kmiotek, Ann Stockman, Kristen & Lauren Kopka.  Our own Army 1st Lt. Scott Krasko in Iraq will be well pleased!

Annual Parish Meeting—Jan. 27th: 

There were 72 voting members among the 80-plus in attendance for our Annual Parish Meeting.  This bodes well for the parish as it moves into its second century of faith.  Average attendance at congregational meetings had been 60-65 and December's election meeting has started an upward trend with 70 in attendance.  We thank Mark Trenske, Fred Clemente, Frank Christianson and Christopher Lickteig for preparing the hall for the meeting and for cooking and serving breakfast for all in attendance.  We also thank Ken Krasko, Dolores Smith, Jerry Smith, Dave Sauter and Kathy Smith for preparing and presenting their reports to parishioners in addition to Bishop Kopka's reports.  The next meeting is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on June 29th, which will include and election of delegates to the Diocesan Synod in October.  We can elect 1 delegate for every 50 members, which means we can elect four parishioners.  A delegate must be a member of the parish for at least 2 years and be in good standing.  That is, be faithful and regular with participation in weekly and holy day worship and be current in financial obligations through weekly offerings and payment of church dues.

Pastoral Visits & Home Blessings:  

From January 6th to February 5th (the day before Ash Wednesday), Bishop Anthony and Deacon Mike made their annual visits to parish members and to bless their homes.  Bishop visited 70 households in Stratford, Bridgeport, Fairfield, Milford, Monroe, New Haven, Newtown, Oxford, Trumbull, Orange, Beacon Falls, Prospect and West Haven.  Deacon also visited those in Stratford and Monroe and in Shelton/Huntington, Derby and Ansonia.  He blessed 38 homes.

Got Recipes? 

The Women’s Society is publishing a cookbook, which will include hors d’oeuvres, salads/soups, main entrees, desserts for all seasons and holidays.  Contribute your favorite and tried recipes in the basket at the back of church.

Scout Sunday:  

We held our annual observance of Scout Sunday at the start of the 9:30 High Mass on Feb. 3.  Participating were:  Boy Scout Curtis Cocco, Jr. Girl Scout Emily Discepola, Brownie Sarah Discepola and adult Scout Leaders Ken Krasko, Shawn and Kathy Norris.  Any parish member who  a Boy or Girl Scout, Cub Scout or Brownie, or Explorer is urged to meet with Bishop Anthony to enroll in the PNC Church Scouting Awards:  God and Country and the Love of God.

Super Bowl Social: 

The Men’s Society hosted about 30 parish members and their relatives and friends at their annual Super Bowl Social on Sunday, Feb. 3.  They even installed Cable TV to get the best reception for the NFL Championship Game.  It was only $5 per person for a great buffet and refreshments.  We thank Rob and Joe Shandrowski, Dave Sauter, Wendell Barry, John Lewandowski and Paul Lonzenski for their work in preparing the social.

Centennial Confirmation Class—Bishop’s First Confirmation: 

Bishop Anthony administered for his first time the Sacrament of Confirmation during the High Mass.  Our Diocesan Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Thomas Gnat, is responsible for confirming the faithful in the Eastern Diocese and he has permitted Bishop Kopka to confirm the 2007 parish class.  The class was instructed primarily by Deacon Michael Masulli.  All three young men are 15 years old and active in the life of our parish with their families.  They are:  Steven David ANDREW Baglin, son of Mary and John Baglin of Ansonia, sponsored by John Kwiatkowski; Ryan Thomas CHARLES Martin, son of Corinne and Mark Trenske of Bridgeport, sponsored by Peter Lasecki; Nico Anthony JOHN Pirulli, son of Justine and Anthony Pirulli of Monroe, sponsored by Damaso Morales.  Immediately after the High Mass and Confirmation, guests and parish members attended a breakfast reception.  The breakfast was headed by Mark Trenske, Fred Clemente, Christopher Lickteig and Frank Christianson.  During the breakfast, each of the newly confirmed shared why they chose their confirmation name (capitalized above) and their sponsor.  They also cut a cake presented by the parish.  The flowers at the main altar were also given by the parish to the greater glory of God in thanksgiving for the sacraments.  Each member of the Centennial Class will also receive the traditional gift of the Holy Bible by the parish.  We thank Karen Lasecki and Lisa Vasas for the music at the Mass, both the Men's and the Women's societies for their participation, Deacon Masulli and altar servers:  Michael Andorka, James Smith, Emily Discepola and Abby Nelson.

Baptism: 

We congratulate Eugene and Jillian Clemente of Ansonia on the birth of their daughter, Salina Marie Clemente, who was baptized at noon, Nov. 3.  She is the granddaughter of Fred and Esther Clemente.

Polish Supper—Nov. 3rd:  

For only $10 per adult, $5 per child (6-12):  stuffed cabbage, kielbasa and sauerkraut, cabbage and noodles, vegetables, rye bread, dessert and beverage! Over 200 dinners sold!

Thank You: 

1) We thank Marianne Charabowski for the donation of 20 glass candle followers, which are being used on the candle tops at the high altar.  They will be easier to maintain than the brass followers and will not discolor as the brass ones do.  2) We thank Lynda Desrosiers and her family for purchasing at the Art Auction and donating to the parish the framed lithograph of “Christ in Gethsemane,” which will be displayed in Bishop Hodur Hall.  3) We thank Dolores and Jerry Smith and their family for the donation of the six permanent bouquets of autumn flowers adorning our altars, which are given in memory of Mary and Joseph Kafara.

Support 1st Lt. Krasko and Other Troops: 

The parish is joining hands with the Blue Star Mothers and Families of Stratford to collect supplies that are needed by our U.S. Military men and women in Iraq, including our own 1st Lt. Scott M. Krasko.

Forum for Stratford Residents: 

The parish hall was rented by the League of Women Voters of the Bridgeport Area in order to hold a forum with candidates running for the Town Council.  Each candidate has one minute to respond to questions posed by the League with limited times for rebuttal.  Each candidate will have one minute for a closing statement, but there will be no opening statements.  It was held from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, October 30th in Bishop Hodur Hall.

Weekly Bible Class—Mondays at 7 p.m.: Deacon Mike Masulli leads a Bible class every Monday from 7 to 8 p.m., and questions and answers until 8:30 p.m.  It takes place in Classroom Faith and Bibles are available for use or for sale ($5 each).  We use the New Revised Standard Version for class.

Men’s Dinner Dance a Great Success:

The Young Men’s Society of Resurrection at St. Joseph’s of Stratford, Conn., held their only dance this year on Saturday, September 15th.  Not only did the men sponsor a dance featuring ballroom and line dance music, but also a chicken cordon bleu dinner.  It was a sellout with all 12 tables filled, netting a very fine profit of $1300 for the youth programs that the men subsidize each year, including high school scholarships.  Branch President John Macionus headed the kitchen and personally attended to preparing each chicken breast filet, stuffing them with cheese and ham, for 102 diners and for the Men’s Society volunteers.  Helping him in the kitchen were Branch Vice President Ed Slonina and Joseph Shandrowski, while Dave Sauter took care of admissions and beverages and Branch Secretary Rob Shandrowski headed the clean up.  Bishop Anthony Kopka promoted the dance and also helped out.

St. Joseph’s in Shelton:

St. Joseph’s of Stratford relocated to Shelton, Conn. for a day on Sunday, October 7th.  Like Stratford Day on the first Saturday of June, Shelton Day is on the first Sunday in October.  Both are street festivals for the immediate community with booths lining both sides of the main street in each town selling food, drink and crafts and providing information on community organizations and commercial services.  Many bands and other live entertainment, game booths, amusement rides and other attractions such as climbing walls and martial arts displays are also features of these street festivals.  Although Stratford Day attracts a much larger crowd, Shelton Day certainly “feels” like Main Street, USA.  The parish has set up a food booth at both festivals for several years in order to make the only National Catholic Church in Fairfield County more visible.  However, we do try to turn a significant profit too.  Unfortunately the weather can really affect sales adversely.  It was a beautiful day in Shelton this year and the larger crowd helped us do better than usual.  Selling grilled kielbasa sandwiches on a hard roll with or without sauerkraut has become a cost-effective business.  The main expense is the kielbasa that we get from a local meat company at a very good price.  Our profit is much better when we buy not only for Stratford Day, but also keep what we do not use in the freezer until Shelton Day.  Then whatever kielbasa we have left over is kept frozen and then cooked and sold as part of the Polish Supper in November.  The next biggest expense, which is significantly less than the meat, includes the rolls, which a local bakery distributor sells to us at a reduced price.  Even the sauerkraut is purchased at the cost of a local restaurant.  Therefore, individually, it would not be cost-effective to take part in the two street festivals if we could not combine purchases and save on expenses.  The most important part of the whole endeavor is getting enough volunteers to set up, cook and sell, and take everything down and back to the parish to be cleaned.  We are blessed with the parish members who step forward every year to work at both festivals.  This year’s Shelton Day was headed by John Lewandowski, who was assisted by Ted Lasecki, Ken and Brian Krasko.  Serving were:  Darlene Kopka, Jeanne Laskey, Fred Clemente, Dolores and Jerry and James Smith.

Council Sunday Observed:

In the first 75 years St. Joseph’s Parish, when it was located in Bridgeport, Conn., was very involved with local Polonia by working with Polish-American organizations in co-sponsoring or supporting various cultural or social events.  For the past 25 years, most of which have been at our present location in Stratford, the parish is very involved with the entire diverse community by working with town and regional agencies as well as both ecumenical and interfaith organizations.  The three major religious organizations—in which the parish has membership—are the Stratford Clergy Association, the newly organized Fairfield County Clergy Collective and the venerable Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport.  It was the latter that the parish recognized during the Sunday High Mass on September 30th.  The 100 member churches were asked to observe “Council Sunday” by praying for the Council and for its ministries.  The congregations were also asked to have their delegates or clergy speak to them about the Council and the work that is accomplished in the City of Bridgeport and the surrounding municipalities, including the Town of Stratford.  Bishop Anthony Kopka has been working with the Council of Churches for at least 10 years and parish delegates represented St. Joseph’s for the first time at a delegate’s conference this past month.  Our delegates are Dolores Smith and Richard Lasecki.  Dolores shared her experience at the delegate’s conference with the parish on “Council Sunday.”  She highlighted the tremendous work being accomplished by each ministry by sharing inspiring stories of various individuals who had been helped.  St. Joseph’s formally joined the Council four years ago as a financially contributing member, paying $1,000 each year.  Now that Bishop Kopka has been elected for four years to serve on the Board of Directors of the Council of Churches, the parish is expected to contribute even more.  For 63 years the Council has brought together Christian churches to accomplish more together in the name of Christ than any congregation can do alone.  The Council is, as it states:  “a faith-based, ecumenical social service agency working in partnership with local congregations and other funders to educate children, feed the poor, support youth and families in crisis, guide ex-offenders to productive lives and build bridges of understanding and respect.”  Its major programs or ministries are:  Project Learn, which serves inner-city children who want to succeed in school; Janus Center, which provides a safe place for runaway teens and counseling for them and other youth in crisis; the CO-OP Center, which helps and trains those who are released from prison to transition successfully back into the community; Hunger Outreach, which helps feed the poor in the area and supply local pantries for the hungry; Bridge Building, which convenes people of diverse groups to dialogue with each other over common issues.  Bishop Kopka has been involved mostly with the Bridge Building ministry by serving on the planning committee for most of the last 10 years and by involving parish youth and adults as well as the youth groups of other religious congregations of Stratford in various Bridge Building events and programs.  He will be working closely with the Parish Committee to involve the parish and its members as well as parish organizations in the other ministries of the Council of Churches in the next couple of years.  A list of volunteering opportunities to help Project Learn, Janus Center, the CO-OP Center and Hunger Outreach will be promoted among the parish membership.  It is the most effective way for members of St. Joseph’s to reach out and help the hungry and thirsty, those in need of clothing and shelter, the sick and the imprisoned as commanded (not asked or recommended) by Jesus Christ in the Gospel according to St. Matthew, chapter 25.  The most Christ-like way to minister is person-to-person, face-to-face; not just by donating or raising money to help—although THAT is important TOO.

Women’s Society Held a Tag Sale on Sept. 29: 

The Women’s Society conducted a “Second Time Around” Sale. To read about it and to read other news about our parish Women's Society go to:  "OUR GROUPS" in the left margin and click; then click on "Women's Society."

Thank You!  Marilyn Chernesky Discepola, Fred Clemente, Bishop and Kristen Kopka, Jean Macionus, Deacon Masulli, Carol Murdzia and Sean Owens for taking part in the Leadership Institute this past Thursday; and Kristen Kopka and Bishop for attending the Eastern Diocese School of Christian Living Seminar yesterday.

Food Drive:

Sterling House Community Center is very grateful to all of you who were so generous with the many donations of non-perishable food items for the community food pantry for the needy.  We will hold another food drive in about a month, because the need is great in our community.  Thank you all !!

Thank You: 

Mark Trenske, Fred Clemente and Christopher Lickteig for preparing last Sunday’s great breakfast; Dolores Smith and Richard Lasecki for attending the Council of Churches conference with Bishop Kopka.

Open House Sunday—Sept. 9th:  

The second Sunday of September is celebrated annually throughout the PNC Church as the Solemnity of Brotherly Love of the PNCC.  This year  the Women’s Society held their  “Adopt-A-Sister Sunday.”  The solemnity also included an "open house" this year.  Parishioners were encouraged to bring someone they knew who might not have a parish they belong to, or who may not be happy where they are going for worship and fellowship.  Some parish members did as they were asked and they brought guests with them to Mass and to the breakfast reception afterwards.  A blueberry pancake and sausage breakfast was served.

Participation at PNCC Youth Programs:

Youth members of St. Joseph's of Stratford, Connecticut, participated in PNCC summer programs with the help of the parish and two church organizations.  The Parish Committee, the Young Men’s Society of Resurrection and the Women’s Society for the Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament at St. Joseph’s subsidized registration and transportation costs for two national events and one diocesan event.  Therefore, the costs were split four ways among the families, the Parish and the two church organizations, making it much easier for more than one child to attend from the same family and for youth to attend more than one event.  Attending the Kurs Encampment in the beginning of July at the Bishop Hodur Retreat and Recreation Center in Waymart, Pa., were four youth from St. Joseph’s:  Michael Andorka, Alex Christianson, Abby and James Nelson.  Parish pastor, Bishop Anthony Kopka also attended for two days, preaching at Mass one day and lecturing the other.  Participating in the 79th PNCC Track and Field Meet in mid-August at the YMS of R Park in Scranton, Pa., were five youth from St. Joseph’s:  Alex Christianson, Curtis and Jessica Cocco, Abby and James Nelson.  They arrived the day before to take part in the dance held at Holy Mother of Sorrows in Dupont, Pa., then stayed overnight at the Bishop Hodur Center with chaperones Bishop Anthony Kopka and Rory Carlson.  Also attending the track meet for the day were adults:  Jean Macionus, Darlene and Kristen and Lauren Kopka.  Our small parish team fared rather well in the running, throwing and jumping competitions with Curtis, Abby, James and Lauren winning medals and Kristen being awarded as the Outstanding Athlete in her age group.  There was a total representation of 11 parish members.  Taking part in the Annual Eastern Diocese Youth Retreat in the third week of August at 4-H Camp Howe in Goshen, Mass., were nine youth from St. Joseph’s:  Michael Andorka, Alex Christianson, Curtis and Jessica Cocco, Emily Discepola, Peter Lasecki, Abby and James Nelson, and James Smith.  Adult counselors attending all week from the parish were:  Bishop Anthony Kopka, Rob Mongillo and Patricia “Tish” Morrissey.  There was a total representation of 12 parish members.  Also attending for one day were Kristen and Lauren Kopka.  Youth members are also active in the planning for the PNCC National Youth Convocation that will be hosted by the Eastern Diocese at Roger Williams University in Rhode Island in July 2008.  Our youth who are attending most of the meetings are:  Michael Andorka, Steve Baglin, Alex Christianson and Jessica Cocco.  Thanks to the involvement of the Parish Committee and the Men’s and Women’s societies, St. Joseph’s Parish is able to meet the goals of being “youth oriented” as stated in the parish mission statement:  “We are sacramentally focused on Christ, democratically governed, youth-oriented and community-minded.”  Instead of emphasizing the raising of funds by youth in order to participate in church youth programs, the emphasis is on inviting youth participation by limiting financial obstacles for families and by sharing the responsibility of rearing our youth among the parish membership and parish groups.  Having a few youth fundraising projects throughout the year also helps prevent conflict and competition among all the other fundraising functions at the parish.

Clergy Collective:

Summer began at St. Joseph's of Stratford, Connecticut, with the hosting of the Fairfield County Clergy Collective monthly meeting on June 21.  The parish provided lunch for this fledgling interfaith organization of area clergy.  Catholic and Protestant priests and ministers as well as rabbis and non-Christian pastors meet monthly as a group and in pairs between the collective meetings.  Bishop Anthony Kopka is a member of the core group, becoming active in the collective earlier this year.  The goal is:  1) to build a faith-based organization made up across race, towns, denominations and all economic lines; 2) to train clergy and lay leaders of congregations in the arts of leadership and relational culture, so that congregations will be healthy and growing; 3) and to exercise power in public life through collective action on common issues.  St. Joseph’s of Stratford will be one of two sites for a six-week Leadership Institute for lay men and women who are willing to be prepared to meet the above three-fold goal.  The institute will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Joseph’s every Thursday from September 20 through October 25.  It is hoped that at least 10 parishioners will register for and attend each class on the fundamental principles of organizing, leadership and parish development.  Parish members will be able to attend for free, since our parish is a host site.  The deadline to register with Bishop Kopka is Sept. 12.  Being one of the few parishes in the collective with air conditioning, the Clergy Collective met again at St. Joseph’s on August 16 to finalize plans for the Leadership Institute.

Chicken and Ribs BBQ:

On Sunday, June 24, the parish brought back its summer barbecue of entire chicken halves and added pork spare ribs.  Nearly 150 people came, many for take-out dinners, paying $15 per adult and $7 per child.  About $1,000 was made in profit for the parish treasury.  The barbecue began after a specially scheduled Mass at 11 a.m. and continued until 2 p.m. in the air-conditioned parish hall.

Fireworks Tailgate Picnic:

In celebration of Independence Day the Town of Stratford sponsored nearly an hour of fantastic fireworks on July 3.  One of the best views is from the parking lot of St. Joseph’s and, once again, the 60-space lot was over-filled.  Almost 200 adults and children came together at the parish in a spirit of friendship and fellowship to celebrate the birth of our nation.  Families gathered around mini-van hatchbacks, car trunks, pick-up truck beds and grilles as well as under dining flies, collapsible canopies and one trailer awning to enjoy and share a munificent fare of picnic foods.  One could easily imagine being outside any stadium in the U.S. for a tailgate party.

Mohegan Bus Trip:

The Young Men’s Society of Resurrection tried something different as a fundraiser on July 17.  They chartered a coach bus for a trip to the Mohegan Sun casino on a weekday.  Although preliminary interest was very high, attendance was disappointing.  Only half of the bus was filled.  Nonetheless, it was a fun and relaxing day for those who joined in; even though there were no big winners.  The bus left St. Joseph’s at 8:30 a.m. and returned at 4:30 p.m.  It is about an hour-and-a-half drive to Uncasville, Conn., and the trip cost $25 per person.  Everyone received a coupon to eat dinner anywhere in the casino and a $10 voucher for play at one of three different games.  Arrangements were made by YMS of R member Dave Sauter.

Superfund Forum:

Stratford was home to the former company, Raymark, which manufactured brakes and brake materials for the automotive industry.  The company had offered “free fill” to town residents and contractors, which later was found to contain asbestos, lead and PCBs.  Therefore, the plant site and many areas in town were contaminated with toxic waste.  The plant was eventually torn down and the entire site was remediated and permanently capped through the federal Superfund program.  The site is now home to Walmart, Shaw’s supermarket, Home Depot and Webster Bank.  There is $21 million remaining in funds to deal with the other areas in town that are contaminated.  The Environmental Protection Agency would like to consolidate those sites at two or three of the largest remaining sites—one of which is across from St. Joseph’s in Short Beach Park along the Housatonic River.  Public reaction has been fierce.  On the evening of August 7 St. Joseph’s hosted the first well-attended public forum sponsored by the EPA.  The parish hall proved to be too small as about 200 crowded inside and others were turned away.  The EPA wanted to gauge public reaction on several options for consolidation of the remaining toxic sites before recommending one for an official public hearing.  The press and radio coverage of the meeting has led to even greater public participation at subsequent forums by the EPA.

100 Years in Lordship:

On the Solemnity of the Assumption or Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary, August 15, St. Joseph’s celebrated the 100th anniversary of its purchase of six farmland acres in the Lordship section of Stratford.  In 1907 there was no airport next door; few houses, which were small Cape Cod-style homes; and a much larger marshy saltwater estuary.  Yet the charter members of St. Joseph’s, who under the guidance of then-Father Francis Hodur organized a Polish National Catholic Church in Bridgeport on February 18, 1907, were obviously led by the Holy Spirit to purchase the Lordship parcel.  They made it their parish cemetery, but that day—until July 1988—they and later generations preserved the best acre in the southern front quadrant for the possible construction of a church.  In that quadrant is our present church/hall/classroom building and parking lot.  Bishop Anthony Kopka celebrated a specially scheduled 11 a.m. Mass that commemorated Blessed Virgin Mary’s assumption and which was offered in thanksgiving to God for the purchase of land that became the parish cemetery and now also the site of the church.  The Mass also included prayers and blessings for healing as is customary on Wednesday mornings at St. Joseph’s at 9 a.m. most weeks.  Parishioners brought to be blessed flowers, herbs and fruit, which were enjoyed at a brunch reception in the classroom annex.  The parish provided food and refreshments for the brunch and parishioners also contributed entrees, which included a lot of fruit.  Attending the Wednesday morning festivities with Bishop Kopka were:  Linda and Wendell Barry, Marianne Charabowski, Dorothy Derouin, Wanda Dymkoski, Elaine Dwyer, Wanda Gadski, Bertha Grabowski, Kristen Kopka, Bill Lazowsky, Elizabeth Pfriem, Bill and Florence Rasmussen, Helen Slonina, Helen Steele and Charles Strengowski.

Wedding and Baptism:

On Friday, August 10, Audrey Ellen Musco and Edward Packo Jr. were united in Matrimony during a Nuptial High Mass.  The Packo’s are making their home in Orange, Conn.  After the Vigil Mass on Saturday, August 25, Julia Rose Vasas was baptized.  She is the infant daughter of Lisa (Bresh) and Martin Vasas Jr. of Milford, Conn.  Julia has an older brother, Charles.  We congratulate and ask God’s blessings upon the Packo and Vasas families.

Congratulations Denise Baglin:

Denise graduates from Emmett O’Brien Technical High School in Ansonia with a concentration in culinary arts.  She will enroll in the fall in Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, where she will sort out her future plans.  Electing to work and earn money part-time since age 16 instead of taking part in extra-curricular activities, Denise has been the operator/cashier at Dworkin Chevrolet.  She has participated in Diocesan Youth Retreats and the PNCC National Youth Convocation.  Denise is the daughter of Mary and John Baglin of Ansonia and the granddaughter of John & Jean Kwiatkowski of Holy Saviour PNCC in Union City.

Father’s Day Breakfast: 

After the 9:30 Mass a blueberry pancake, scrambled egg and sausage breakfast was served in Bishop Hodur Hall.  A fresh fruit salad, rolls, juice, coffee and tea were also served for a freewill offering.  Parish children  helped serve and clean up.  Heading the kitchen were Darlene Kopka and Jean Macionus.

Congratulations Curtis Cocco:

On Thursday Curtis received from the Mayor of Milford the city’s certificate of recognition for his community service in the past year.  He also received with fellow Natural Helpers of West Shore Middle School the Mayor’s Youth Award for all of their fundraising work for various community charities and service agencies.  And he was a nominee for the Mayor’s Youth Award for middle school students.  He is a Scout and an altar server.  He is in the sixth grade and is the son of Kathy Norris and Shawn Norris of Milford.

Women’s National Convention Notes:  

The church-wide convention of the United Women’s Societies of the PNC Church was held at St. Joseph’s Parish in Westfield, Mass., April 27-29.  Jean Macionus was re-elected First Vice President for the next four years, she also serves as President for the Diocesan United Women’s Societies.  Also attending were Dolores Smith, Carol Murdzia and Janice Chernesky as members of the National Board, who did not seek re-election.  Attending as delegates from our parish Women’s Society were: Darlene Kopka, Joan Matzonkai and Susan Lewandowski.  Susan and Bishop Kopka were both speakers at the convention and Bishop led two services.

Mother’s Day Breakfast:

Parish fathers were assisted by our youth to prepare and serve the annual Mother’s Day Breakfast after the 9:30 Mass on Sunday, May 13.  The breakfast, for a freewill offering, included (back by popular demand): Mini Egg Bakes (personal sized), roll or croissant, fresh fruit, orange juice, coffee/tea/milk.  We thank Mark Trenske, Fred Clemente, Frank Christianson and Christopher Lickteig.

Community Action Forum: 

We hosted Stratford residents coming together to work with town officials and Stratford Community Services (the town’s social services department) to address leadership, police and educational issues in Stratford.  There was a follow up to the six-week series of group discussions on race issues in Stratford.  The forum was held on Tuesday, May 15th.  A light catered supper was served for $5 per person.

Diocesan Women’s Convention—Here: 

We hosted the United Women’s Societies of the Eastern Diocese for their annual convention on Sat., May 19.  Our Diocesan Bishop Thomas Gnat offered the convention Holy Mass at 10 a.m. that day and he attended the convention with many of our diocesan priests.  Jean Macionus presided at the convention, she was elected president last year.  Dolores Smith and Tish Morrissey were featured speakers during the educational portion of the convention.  Julie Frissora headed the kitchen committee.  Our Sunday School students presented their signed hymn during the Mass.  Bishop Kopka presided at the Eucharistic Benediction at 4 p.m.

Cemetery Notice:

Zoysia grass plugs have been planted at all new grave areas and in all bare spots of the parish cemetery.  PLEASE DO NOT CUT OR REMOVE THEM!  It is the only kind of grass that grows well in our cemetery and it will eventually spread out and overtake all other grasses and weeds.  This is a planned program.

Prayer Vigil for U.S. Military Held April 29: 

The Vigil Service of the Blue Star Mothers and Families of Stratford was held here at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 29.  Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and State Senator Dan Debicella participated as well as the mayors/first selectmen of Stratford, Bridgeport, Shelton and Trumbull.  Besides our own Karen Lasecki we had Lou Zayas adding his musical talents (you’ll remember him from the Bethlehem House charity events).  And the Sweet Adelines were here to sing patriotic songs.  The local VFW Post 9460 provided the color guard.  Support our military families!  Parish volunteers provided baked goods and refreshments for a reception in our hall for our guests.  We thank: Patti Squezello, Diane Lickteig, Ann Stockman, Dolores Smith, Pat Christianson, Carol Murdzia, Jan Chernesky, Darlene Kopka and others.  The Connecticut Post and TV channels 8 and 30 covered the vigil.

Look for our TV spot: 

From April 23 to May 6 we contracted with Cablevision (of southwest Connecticut) to air a 30-second commercial about our PNC Church.  It was professionally prepared by our parish in Toledo, Ohio, therefore it is their priest and parishioners you see in it.  With their help we were able to add a picture of our church and contact information at the end of it.  It will appear on News12 and the Family, Hallmark and TV-Land networks for one week in Sept. and in Oct. and for the entire month of December 2007.

Holy Thursday Liturgy and Dinner:

For the first time at St. Joseph’s of Stratford, Connecticut, the Mass commemorating the Institution of the Holy Eucharist followed the example of Jesus with the washing of feet.  The Pastor, Bishop Anthony Kopka, offered the Mass and was assisted by Deacon Michael Masulli.  Following the Mass, the Women’s Society for the Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament (WSAMBS) served a meatless covered dish buffet for all who attend.  Society members will bring various seafood entrees, meatless casseroles, salads and desserts.  This is an annual parish tradition begun soon after the present church was constructed in 1989.

Ecumenical Good Friday Service:

Bishop Anthony Kopka and St. Joseph’s of Stratford hosted this year’s Good Friday service for the Christian congregations of the Stratford Clergy Association.  St. Joseph’s members have participated every year since their pastor joined the association in 1989.  The parish has previously hosted the service, which rotates each year among the town’s churches.  This year's service was based on PNCC Lenten traditions, using parts of Sorrowful Lamentations and Psalms from Tenebrae as well as traditional Christian hymns for Lent.  Since no musical accompaniment is used in our church on Good Friday, the service was conducted a cappella.

Easter Baskets:

Keep the tradition of preparing a basket of hard-boiled eggs, bread, and ham or sausage or lamb to be blessed at church on Holy Saturday and then to be eaten by your family after Easter Sunday Mass in order to celebrate in a symbolic and more spiritually meaningful way the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  The times for the blessings on Holy Saturday are:  After the 9 a.m. service and at noon, 12:30, 1, 1:30, 2 and 4:30 p.m.

Celebrating Christ’s Resurrection:

A Sunrise Mass of Resurrection is offered at 6 a.m. on Easter Sunday at St. Joseph’s of Stratford.   It begins at the empty tomb with a Eucharistic procession.  Bishop Anthony Kopka presides and both the parish Men’s and Women’s societies participate.  Holy Mass is also celebrated at 9:30 a.m. on Easter Sunday and a Vigil Mass is offered at 5:00 on the evening before Easter.

Special Guests—Parish Easter Dinner:

Continuing the celebration of the parish centenary, St. Joseph’s of Stratford welcomed two special guests at this year’s Easter Dinner.  Attorney General Richard Blumenthal and newly elected State Senator Dan Debicella came to congratulate St. Joseph’s parishioners on their 100th anniversary.  That Sunday began with an 11 a.m. High Mass celebrated by Bishop Anthony D. Kopka.  The Women’s Society for the Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament served a stuffed pork loin dinner at noon.  The cost for the dinner was $10 per adult and $5 per child (ages 17 and younger).  The School of Christian Living students sang a song during the Mass and presented a puppet play on the meaning of Easter after dinner.

Collection for One of Our Own:

We ask you to help Michael Yanick of St. Adalbert’s PNCC in Dickson City, PA, who has Hodgkin’s disease and no health insurance coverage.  (He was diagnosed just prior to his school teaching contract and his condition is deemed pre-existent!)  Mike is very faithful and active in our church, especially with youth programs and the YMS/R.  If you cannot be as generous as you would like to be today, then mail your offering to: Bishop Kopka,

Interfaith Youth Coffeehouse:

St. Joseph’s of Stratford and its Young Men’s Society of Resurrection hosted for the third time an Interfaith Youth Coffeehouse.  It was held on March 24, the Feast of Archangel Gabriel.  Since Lent is being observed by most churches, the feast day was chosen in order to hold the event and it began well after sundown, so that Jewish youth could participate.  This year the coffeehouse included a dance, last year “Fear Factor” was presented and two years ago the coffeehouse featured karaoke.  The Interfaith Coffeehouse is a youth outreach program of the Stratford Clergy Association, which is itself an interfaith group of ordained clergy and religious leaders of about 15 congregations of different faith traditions.  Every year three of the congregations host a coffeehouse with various themes or talent-promoting formats.  The clergy are striving to build up the community and relationships among their congregants by promoting mutual respect and understanding.  The coffeehouse is open to middle school and high school youth members of every church, synagogue, temple and mosque in Stratford as well as their friends.  The parish and Men’s Society split the cost of the deejay, who played requests, led line dances and provided lights for a disco effect.  Bishop Anthony Kopka, Nichole Sauter and Shawn Norris organized and supervised the dance with the help of youth members Curtis Cocco and Ryan Martin.

Protestant/Catholic Confirmation Classes Meet

The minister and teachers of Lordship Community Church asked to meet with Bishop Anthony Kopka and the Confirmation class of St. Joseph’s of Stratford.  Their purpose was to introduce their United Church of Christ Confirmation class to principal Catholic beliefs and a Catholic sanctuary.  Bishop Kopka and two of his students, Nico Pirulli and Ryan Martin, welcomed the neighboring church group on Sunday evening, March 18.  The meeting lasted an hour and a half as the bishop explained the Sacraments, the Mass and the design of the sanctuary as well as the major differences between the PNCC and the Roman Catholic Church.  The Rev. Harold Smith then shared a brief history of the origin and development of the Congregational Church (United Church of Christ) as well as their tradition of worship.  Everyone was then invited for snacks, beverages and a short time of fellowship in the parish hall.

Energy Forum:

St. Joseph’s of Stratford was the site yet again for a public forum, this time on Thursday evening, February 8.  Bishop Anthony Kopka welcomed the local community activist group, Protect Your Environment, to engage a dialogue between town residents and state legislators on the energy crisis.  In Connecticut the cost of electricity alone will average out to a whopping 50% increase in cost to citizens and businesses.  Two state senators and three house representatives presented their views and intentions regarding public utility costs, renewable energy sources, conservation needs and other related topics.  Citizens then had an opportunity to ask questions or to express their opinions.  Local press and radio reporters were present as well as the mayor of Stratford.

Scout Sunday Observed Twice:

On Sunday, February 4, St. Joseph’s of Stratford honored parish members involved in Scouting and also hosted an Interfaith Service for the neighboring Scout District.  An Eagle Scout himself and the former PNCC Scout Chaplain, Bishop Anthony Kopka joined adult Scout Leaders Ken and Brian Krasko, Shawn and Kathy Norris in leading the congregation in the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the 9:30 a.m. High Mass.  Ken Krasko then explained the origin of Scout Sunday and the tradition of observing it at St. Joseph’s.  He then introduced Scout Curtis Cocco, Brownie Sarah Discepola and Cub Scout James Nelson, telling about their recent accomplishments and experiences in Scouting.  The PNCC offers the Love of God award to Cub Scouts and Brownies and the God and Country award to Boy and Girl Scouts and Explorers.  Curtis and Brian both had earned the Love of God medal.  At 1 p.m. the parish hosted an Interfaith Scout Service at which Bishop Kopka presided and preached.  The service was prepared by one of the district adult leaders and Kathy and Shawn Norris invited troops of New Haven County to come to St. Joseph’s in Fairfield County.  Kathy and Shawn helped to organize the service and a reception afterwards in the parish hall.  For a “Super Bowl Sunday” the attendance was pretty good as about 50 people attended.

Civil Air Patrol Awards Dinner: