Welcome to Bl. Michael McGivney Parish Uniting the Catholic Churches of the Elm City Visit Us Weekly Bulletin Mass Times Parish Updates Contact Us On July 1, 2023, the Churches of St. Aedan, St. Anthony, St. Francis, St. Joseph, St. Martin de Porres, St. Mary, St. Michael, and St. Stanislaus (the Parishes of St. Aedan & Brendan, St. Anthony, Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Mary, St. Martin de Porres, St. Michael, and St. Stanislaus) were merged to form Blessed Michael McGivney Parish of New Haven, Connecticut, in accordance with canons 121 & 515 §2 of the Code of Canon Law. Though our churches of the Elm City span different cultures, languages, and traditions, we are all united in the Body of Christ. St. Aedan Church 112 Fountain St, New Haven CT 06515 ​203-389-2619 staedan@newhavencatholic.org St. Anthony Church 70 Washington Ave, New Haven CT 06519 Mail/Office: 25 Gold St, New Haven CT 06519 203-624-1418 stanthony@newhavencatholic.org St. Francis of Assisi Church 397 Ferry St, New Haven CT 06513 203-865-6149 stfrancis@newhavencatholic.org St. Joseph Church 129 Edwards St, New Haven CT 06511 Mail: PO Box 9286, New Haven CT 06533 203-562-6193 stmary@newhavencatholic.org St. Martin de Porres Church 136 Dixwell Ave, New Haven CT 06511 203-624-9944 stmartindeporres@newhavencatholic.org St. Mary Church 5 Hillhouse Ave, New Haven CT 06511 Mail: PO Box 9286, New Haven CT 06533 203-562-6193 stmary@newhavencatholic.org St. Michael Church 29 Wooster Pl, New Haven CT 06511 203-562-7178 stmichael@newhavencatholic.org St. Stanislaus Church 9 Eld St, New Haven CT 06511 203-562-2828 ​ststanislaus@newhavencatholic.org May 18-19, 2024 New Haven, CT Learn More Blessed Fr. Michael McGivney BEATIFIED Learn More Join the Community BECOME A PARISHIONER If you're new to the New Haven, CT area or have been attending one of the churches of Bl. Michael McGivney Parish for awhile, consider registering as a parishioner. Learn More Back to Top Send us your email PARISH UPDATES Subscribe for Parish Information Download MY PARISH APP Bl. Michael McGivney Parish has an App! It contains daily Mass readings, reminders, news feeds, a confession guide, and Catholic prayers. ​Once downloaded, open it, and select Bl. Michael McGivney Parish.

Confession "Those who approach the sacrament of Penance obtain pardon from God's mercy for the offense committed against him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion." ​ ​ ( Catechism of the Catholic Church 1422 ) Contact Us What obligations do parents take upon themselves when asking to have their baby baptized? In choosing to have your child baptized in the Catholic Church, you are accepting the responsibility of raising him or her in the practice of the Catholic Faith. The preparation process is conducted under the assumption that at least one of the parents is a believing and practicing Roman Catholic. It is an occasion to reflect on your faith, the faith of the Church, and how you live it out and hand it on in the life of your child. Whether you have been away for a while, or you have a pew at Church that practically has your name on it, your child’s baptism is an opportunity to rediscover and renew your commitment to your Faith in Christ by deeper engagement with the Church. It is as much a chance for a new beginning for you as it is for your child, as you introduce him or her to the full sweep and significance of the Gospel which, if it were all recounted, “the world itself could not contain all the books that would be written”. (John 21:25) For more information, use the 'Contact Us' button above. How do I schedule a date and time? Baptisms and Baptism Preparation are held at various times at our various parish churches. For more information, use the 'Contact Us' button above. Who will administer the Sacrament? Ordinarily, one of the parish priests or deacons will celebrate baptisms in the parish. If a family has a special relationship with a priest or deacon from outside the parish, he is most welcome to come and celebrate the baptism. If you are interested in having a particular priest from the parish baptize your child, feel free to let the Parish Staff know. Visiting priests or deacons must obtain the necessary permission from the parish to conduct the baptism. We will do our best to accommodate your requests. How do I select a Godparent? Each child must have at least one, but may have two godparents or sponsors. If there are two godparents, they must be a godfather and godmother. One godparent must be a practicing and believing Roman Catholic who has received the Sacraments of the Eucharist and Confirmation, be at least 16 years old, and (if married) in a valid Catholic marriage recognized by the Church. Canon Law sets these expectations and expects godparents to be good witnesses of Catholic faith, because it is through baptism that one enters the Church. If someone close to the family is a great example of Christian faith, but is not Catholic, there is the possibility of having such a person act as a witness to the ceremony in a role similar to that of a godparent, but distinct from it. Godparents may be represented by proxies if they are unable to be present for the ceremony. Those serving as proxies must fulfill the same requirements as godparents. Catholics serving as godparents must contact their parish and obtain a sponsor letter or certificate. Please bring the letter or certificate to the baptism. What is the offering cost? Please contact the church you are scheduling the Baptism at to inquire about a Baptism Offering using the "Contact Us" button above. What if I am an adult and would like to receive Baptism? You are invited to find out more about the Roman Catholic Church by participating in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). More information can be found here.

Mass Times Daily Mass Monday-Friday - 7:00 AM - St. Stanislaus Church Monday-Friday - 12:00 PM - St. Mary Church Monday-Friday - 5:00 PM - St. Joseph Church Monday-Thursday - 5:30 PM - St. Thomas More Chapel at Yale (only during Academic Year) Tuesday & Wednesday - 7:00 PM - St. Francis Church (Spanish) Thursday - 9:00 AM - St. Francis Church (All Saints Catholic Academy School Mass) First Friday - 7:00 PM - St. Stanislaus Church (Polish) Saturday - 8:00 AM - St. Stanislaus Church Saturday Vigil Mass 4:30 PM - St. Stanislaus Church Sunday Mass 8:00 AM - St. Anthony Church 8:30 AM - St. Joseph Church 9:00 AM - St. Aedan Church 9:30 AM - St. Francis Church 9:30 AM - St. Michael Church 10:00 AM - St. Martin de Porres Church 10:00 AM - St. Thomas More Chapel at Yale 10:00 AM - St. Stanislaus Church (Polish) 11:00 AM - St. Mary Church 11:00 AM - St. Francis Church (Spanish) 1:00 PM - St. Anthony Church (Spanish) 5:00 PM - St. Mary Church 5:00 PM - St. Thomas More Chapel at Yale (Only During Academic Year) 9:00 PM - St. Thomas More Chapel at Yale (Only During Academic Year) Sacrament of Reconciliation Monday-Friday - following 7:00 AM Mass - St. Stanislaus Church Monday-Friday - 11:15-11:50 AM - St. Mary Church Monday-Thursday - 5:00-5:25 PM - St. Thomas More Chapel at Yale (only during Academic Year) Tuesday - 6:00-7:00 PM - St. Francis Church (Spanish/English) Wednesday - 8:00-9:00 PM - St. Joseph Church Saturday - 11:15 AM - 1:00 PM - St. Mary Church Saturday - 3:00-4:15 PM - St. Stanislaus Church or universally by appointment Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Monday - 6:30-7:30 PM - St. Stanislaus Church Wednesday - 6:00-7:00 PM - St. Francis Church Wednesday - 8:00-9:00 PM - St. Joseph Church Thursday - following 12:00 PM Mass to 4:00 PM - St. Mary Church First Friday - 5:30-6:30 PM - St. Joseph Church

St. Aedan Church Established 1900 In 1872, the town of Westville became a mission of New Haven's St. John the Evangelist Church. Father Hugh Carmody of St. John celebrated the first Mass in Westville at Franklin Hall on Fountain Street. Shortly thereafter, an Emerson Street mission chapel, named for St. Joseph, was erected. It was later dedicated by Bishop Francis P. McFarland. In 1895 Westville became a mission of St. Lawrence parish, West Haven. Numbering about 375 communicants, the Westville mission was made a parish dedicated to St. Joseph on June 10, 1900, with Father John D. Kennedy appointed first pastor. Father John McGivney, brother of Father Michael McGivney, bought land at Fountain Street and McKinley Avenue for a new church. Bishop John J. Nilan dedicated the sturdy new building to St. Aedan on April 2, 1922. The parish patron had been changed because Westville had become part of New Haven, which already had a church named for St. Joseph. By October 1950, St. Aedan built and opened an elementary school on McKinley Avenue, staffed by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. On October 26, 1957, a bigger school and new convent were dedicated by Archbishop Henry J. O'Brien. In 1990 Father McCann initiated significant upgrades to the church to align with the teachings of the Second Vatican Council. St. Aedan Parish became Saints Aedan and Brendan Parish in 2016 when St. Aedan Church and St. Brendan Church merged, and the property and buildings of St. Brendan were sold in 2017. Many items from St. Brendan Church were transferred to Sts. Aedan and Brendan Parish on Fountain Street. The original art sample of the crucifix which hanged above St. Brendan's sanctuary hangs above the tabernacle. The statue of the Sacred Heart is located at the McKinley Avenue side entrance and the St. Brendan statue was installed in the rear of the Church.

St. Michael Church Established 1889 St. Michael Parish was created by Bishop Lawrence S. McMahon as the first Italian-American parish in Connecticut, in response to the influx of Italian immigrants to New Haven. Bishop McMahon had assigned priests to serve the Italians in their temporary places of worship – St. Patrick Hall, the Union Armory, and the Boardman building. For decades after its founding, the parish had been staffed by The Congregation of The Missionaries of St. Charles/Scalabrinians, founded in 1887 by Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini who visited this church in 1901. Father Vincenzo Astorri, C.S., was assigned as first resident pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, formally established on September 1, 1889. Father Astorri soon bought a former German Lutheran church on Wooster Street. The property was speedily renovated and dedicated in the fall of 1889 under the protection of St. Michael. As New Haven’s Italian population increased dramatically, Father Louis Lango, C.S., moved to secure more worship space. He purchased a Baptist church that had been a Congregational meeting house on Wooster Place. The Apostolic Delegate, Archbishop Sebastiano Martinelli, dedicated the new St. Michael Church on April 23, 1899. In 1936, Father Leonardo Quaglia, C.S., opened a parish school at 125 Green Street, staffed by the Apostles of the Sacred Heart. In 1940 the parish built a separate school at 234 Green Street. In 1966, St. Patrick Church merged with St. Michael Church. St. Michael School merged with St. Stanislaus School in 1993. Both closed in 1995. The church is still strongly associated with Italian-American heritage and culture and is supported by parish groups such as the Santa Maria Maddalena (Saint Mary Magdalene) Society and Saint Andrew the Apostle Society.

Becoming a Catholic (OCIA) You are invited to find out more about the Roman Catholic Church by participating in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). The OCIA provides doctrinal and spiritual formation for those desiring to enter the Catholic Church. Through prayer, study, and discipleship, it allows each person to learn more about their journey of faith and leads to full participation in the Roman Catholic Church through the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation at Easter. ​ If you or someone you know is interested in becoming Catholic kindly contact the St. Mary Office about our Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) in English, or the St. Francis Office for classes in Spanish. Who can join OCIA? OCIA is for anyone who is not Catholic but is interested in becoming Catholic or in simply learning more about the Catholic faith. It is also for those who were baptized Catholic but who were not raised Catholic and would now like to participate in the life of the Church and receive the other sacraments. If you were raised Catholic and are desirous of receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, please inquire about our Adult Confirmation preparation. What is involved? OCIA participants are asked to: ​ Attend weekly meetings to explore Catholic beliefs and practices, reviewing relevant material beforehand in preparation. Begin attending Mass and developing a life of prayer. Get to know the parish community by participating in the groups, activities, and events that interest them. Meet individually with one of the priests several times during the course of the year to update him on their experience of OCIA and their thoughts about joining the Catholic Church. Participate in the various rituals that mark the stages of the OCIA journey, as they become sure of their desire to enter the Church. If already baptized, provide record of such. Choose a Sponsor to accompany and assist you on your journey into the Church. Choose a patron saint. What is a Sponsor? A Sponsor is a Catholic that supports and mentors an OCIA candidate during the course of OCIA. Sponsors therefore should be faithful Catholics who live out the Gospel in their daily lives. Each OCIA candidate chooses his or her sponsor. If a candidate does not know other Catholics, the parish is happy to provide a sponsor. Further guidance about choosing a sponsor will be given at the beginning of OCIA. When do classes begin? A big part of OCIA is a weekly meeting, which typically begin each September. Special accommodations can be made for those who cannot meet the regular schedule. ​ ​For more information, please contact the St. Mary Office for classes in English or the St. Francis Office for classes in Spanish. Contact Us Testimonials "Joining the church has been the best part of my life during the past year and RCIA* at St. Mary's was a great piece of that experience. Very welcoming and educational!" – Nick 2020 ​ ​“It was truly a journey of faith for me converting from Buddhism to the Catholic faith. My wife who is Catholic inspired me to become Catholic also. There is so much to learn about the Catholic faith, the Catholic Church, and its teachings. Knowing that if I make mistakes in life, the Church will forgive me, and it gives me hope for the future. It’s a most comforting feeling to know and to have. I learned something new at each of the weekly meetings. Have to thank Father Kenney and Father Leo for their time, efforts, teaching and comments to help me understand and learn about our Catholic faith and finally to become a member of the Church.” – Shunichi 2020 “RCIA* is the rite I didn't know I needed but am ever grateful that I experienced, as it afforded me not only a spiritual but intellectual introduction–or rather re-introduction–to a faith I wouldn't otherwise have had the discipline to cultivate. That I was able to explore doctrine and theology in the company of others who were seeking God in a seemingly secular world made this past year all the more meaningful.” ​– Caitlin 2020 ​ * The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) used to be known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

Baptism Baptism marks the birth of any Christian as a Christian. Through this Sacrament we are cleansed of original sin, incorporated into the Body of Christ that is the Church, and begin our life anew as those transformed by the death and resurrection of Christ Himself. It is the role of the father and mother, accompanied by the godparents, to present the child to the Church for baptism. With this in mind, we offer you some guidelines to help make the preparation for your child's baptism fruitful and joyful. Baptism arrangements, preparation, and scheduling are made by appointment only. ​ "Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua ), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments." ( Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213 ) Contact Us What obligations do parents take upon themselves when asking to have their baby baptized? In choosing to have your child baptized in the Catholic Church, you are accepting the responsibility of raising him or her in the practice of the Catholic Faith. The preparation process is conducted under the assumption that at least one of the parents is a believing and practicing Roman Catholic. It is an occasion to reflect on your faith, the faith of the Church, and how you live it out and hand it on in the life of your child. Whether you have been away for a while, or you have a pew at Church that practically has your name on it, your child’s baptism is an opportunity to rediscover and renew your commitment to your Faith in Christ by deeper engagement with the Church. It is as much a chance for a new beginning for you as it is for your child, as you introduce him or her to the full sweep and significance of the Gospel which, if it were all recounted, “the world itself could not contain all the books that would be written”. (John 21:25) For more information, use the 'Contact Us' button above. How do I schedule a date and time? Baptisms and Baptism Preparation are held at various times at our various parish churches. For more information, use the 'Contact Us' button above. Who will administer the Sacrament? Ordinarily, one of the parish priests or deacons will celebrate baptisms in the parish. If a family has a special relationship with a priest or deacon from outside the parish, he is most welcome to come and celebrate the baptism. If you are interested in having a particular priest from the parish baptize your child, feel free to let the Parish Staff know. Visiting priests or deacons must obtain the necessary permission from the parish to conduct the baptism. We will do our best to accommodate your requests. How do I select a Godparent? Each child must have at least one, but may have two godparents or sponsors. If there are two godparents, they must be a godfather and godmother. One godparent must be a practicing and believing Roman Catholic who has received the Sacraments of the Eucharist and Confirmation, be at least 16 years old, and (if married) in a valid Catholic marriage recognized by the Church. Canon Law sets these expectations and expects godparents to be good witnesses of Catholic faith, because it is through baptism that one enters the Church. If someone close to the family is a great example of Christian faith, but is not Catholic, there is the possibility of having such a person act as a witness to the ceremony in a role similar to that of a godparent, but distinct from it. Godparents may be represented by proxies if they are unable to be present for the ceremony. Those serving as proxies must fulfill the same requirements as godparents. Catholics serving as godparents must contact their parish and obtain a sponsor letter or certificate. Please bring the letter or certificate to the baptism. What is the offering cost? Please contact the church you are scheduling the Baptism at to inquire about a Baptism Offering using the "Contact Us" button above. What if I am an adult and would like to receive Baptism? You are invited to find out more about the Roman Catholic Church by participating in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). More information can be found here.

Feast of Blessed Michael McGivney 2023 Blessed Michael McGivney Parish at St. Mary's and St. Joseph's celebrates the unique, long-standing, and multifaceted spiritual heritage of Blessed Michael J. McGivney. This year, we are celebrating the third feast day of our beatified parish priest and founder of the Knights of Columbus, Blessed Michael McGivney. DESCRIPTION OF THIS YEAR'S CELEBRATION ​ For the third feast day of Blessed Michael McGivney, we begin our celebrations with the praying of the Holy Rosary and the Novena before every Mass in the nine days leading up to and including the feast itself. The presiders of the Mass each day will preach on the virtue for each novena day in how it relates to the saint of the day and also Bl. Michael McGivney (a link to a digital version of the Novena may be found below). ​ A Holy Hour will be held from 8 - 9 PM on Wednesday, August 9th, at St. Joseph Church, sponsored by Crossroads 4 Christ New Haven. ​ At 11 AM on Saturday, August 12th, Father Michael Ruminksi will present a reflection, "The Eucharist and social regeneration," at the Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center (1 State Street in New Haven). Admission and parking are free. For more information, please visit: michaelmcgivneycenter.org . ​ At 7 PM on Saturday, August 12th, Frassati Night will take place at St. Mary Church (see the St. Mary bulletin page for details), which includes Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Adoration which will continue until benediction at 7:30 AM on Sunday, August 13th. ​ On the feast day itself, Bl. Michael McGivney's relic will be present at the 8:30 AM Mass at St. Joseph's and at the 10:30 AM Votive Mass at St. Mary's. After Mass, a procession will be led by the presider to the statue of Bl. Michael McGivney at St. Joseph's and to the tomb at St. Mary's, with the Litany of Bl. Michael McGivney being prayed. In addition, at St. Mary's the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Honor Guard will serve. "Coffee and" hospitality will take place after the 8:30 AM Mass at St. Joseph's, and an ice cream social hosted by the Columbian Squires will take place after the 10:30 AM Mass at St. Mary's. Finally, at St. Mary's, the Lay Fraternity of St. Dominic will sponsor the praying of Vespers from 3:10 - 3:30 PM and a Holy Hour from 3:30 - 4:30 PM. ​ The full schedule may be found below. ​ Some Resources: Blessed Michael McGivney Novena Litany of Blessed Michael McGivney FULL SCHEDULE OF PRAYERS AND LITURGIES ​ Saturday, August 5 – VIGIL OF THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 1) at 4:30 PM | Openness | Leaders: Alberta Ferrie/Marianne Esposito (St. Joseph Lectors/EMs) Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill Sunday, August 6 – THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 2) at 8 AM | Courage | Leader: Marianne Esposito (St. Joseph Lectors/EMs) Mass at 8:30 AM | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill St. Mary Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 2) at 10 AM | Courage | Leader: Tacy Woods (Lay Fraternity of St. Dominic) Mass at 10:30 AM | Presider: Fr. Ryan Lerner Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Vincent Curran Monday, August 7 – St. Cajetan, Priest | Perseverance St. Mary Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 3) at 11:30 AM | Leader: Linda Kelly (Legion of Mary) Mass at Noon | Presider: Fr. Vincent Curran St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 3) at 4:30 PM | Leaders: Mary Beth Fiasconoro/Drew Dillingham (Blessed Michael McGivney Respect Life Committee) Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Ryan Lerner Tuesday, August 8 – St. Dominic, Priest | Charity, Unity, & Fraternity St. Mary Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 4) at 11:30 AM | Leader: Peter Silva (St. Mary Lectors) Mass at Noon | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 4) at 4:30 PM | Leader: Toni Buddington (McGivney Ministries) Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Ryan Lerner Wednesday, August 9 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, Virgin & Martyr | Discernment St. Mary Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 5) at 11:30 AM | Leader: Grace Klise (Catechesis of the Good Shepherd) Mass at Noon | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 5) at 4:30 PM | Leader: Immacula Didier (Legion of Mary) Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill Holy Hour from 8 - 9 PM | Sponsored by Crossroads 4 Christ New Haven Thursday, August 10 – St. Lawrence, Deacon & Martyr | Zeal St. Mary Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 6) at 11:30 AM | Leader: Peter Silva (St. Mary Lectors) Mass at Noon | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 6) at 4:30 PM | Leader: Flora Guerra (Divine Mercy Devotion) Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Ryan Lerner Friday, August 11 – St. Clare, Virgin | Hope St. Mary Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 7) at 11:30 AM | Leader: Daniel Isabel (San Salvador Council No. 1) Mass at Noon | Presider: Fr. Vincent Curran St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 7) at 4:30 PM | Leader: Tacy Woods (Lay Fraternity of St. Dominic) Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill SATURDAY, AUGUST 12 – VIGIL OF NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Vigil of the Feast of Blessed Michael McGivney) St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 8) at 4:30 PM | Love | Leader: Paul Mastriano/Alberta Ferrie (St. Joseph Lectors/EMs) Mass at 5 PM (w/ Litany after) | Presider: Fr. Vincent Curran St. Mary Church​ All Night Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament starting at 7 PM | Sponsored by Frassati ​ ​ SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 – NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Feast of Blessed Michael McGivney) St. Joseph Church Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 9) at 8 AM | Devotion | Leader: Phyllis Lobo (Altar Servers) Mass at 8:30 AM (w/ Procession & Litany after) | Presider: Fr. Joseph MacNeill St. Mary Church Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at 7:30 AM | Sponsored by Frassati Holy Rosary & Novena Prayer (Day 9) at 10 AM | Devotion | Leader: Phyllis Lobo (Altar Servers) Votive Mass at 10:30 AM (w/ Procession & Litany after) | Presider: Fr. Jeffrey Romans Vespers from 3:10 - 3:30 PM | Sponsored by the Lay Fraternity of St. Dominic Holy Hour from 3:30 - 4:30 PM | Sponsored by the Lay Fraternity of St. Dominic Mass at 5 PM | Presider: Fr. Kelechi Anyanwu A new priest with big ideas Every Mass, every public rosary, every adoration, every confession at St. Mary's happens over a place of special importance for laity of the Catholic Church, in the United States and beyond: the place where Father Michael McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus. ​ Serving as an assistant for about six years at St. Mary's before being entrusted with a parish of his own, he certainly fulfilled the ordinary duties of a parish priest well with great virtue. He changed our parish through events, personal visits, involvement in groups, and organization of social events. ​ Most importantly, he changed the way the laity saw their vocation, and fulfilled it. In founding the Knights of Columbus in 1882, he was considered "bold" for holding the laity - especially laymen - to a high standard of fidelity to the Catholic Faith. Contrary to clericalism, he believed in the ability of laity to make a difference, in their families, in the Church, and in society. ​ Our parish was not only the testing grounds for his ideas. It has grown over many decades to be shaped by his high-standards for the laity spiritually, and his spiritual trust that lay men, lay women, and families can be saints. " The effect of the Society of the Knights of Columbus has since that become extraordinary; the Catholic layman has been brought to realize the preciousness of his birthright as a son of the Church... ​ " Fr. Joseph G. Daley, O.P. 1900, The Personality of Father McGivney Resources for Families Parish Priest , by Julie Fenster and Douglas Brinkley ​ "The Personality of Father Michael McGivney" , by Father Daley (1900) ​ Video of the beatification of Blessed Michael McGivney , Oct 2020 Other Resources: Article on the miracle which led to Fr. McGivney's beatification - the healing of an unborn child from a fatal complication

Join Our Parish If you're new to the New Haven, CT, area or have been attending any of the churches of Blessed Michael McGivney Parish for awhile, consider registering as a parishioner or updating your family information. Adult children living at home are encouraged to register separately . Church You Most Frequently Attend Church Name First Name Middle Name Address City/Town State State Zip Email Last Name Birthday Sacraments Received: Baptism Confession First Communion Confirmation OCIA None Marital Status: Single Married Divorced Separated Home Phone Phone New or Existing Parishioner? New Existing Job Position Would you like contribution envelopes? Yes No If married, please select correct marital status above. Spouse First Name Spouse Middle Name Spouse Last Name Spouse Email Spouse Date of Birth Spouse Occupation Spouse Cell Phone Marriage Date Is your spouse joining Blessed Michael McGivney Parish? Yes No Spouse Sacraments Received? Baptism First Communion Confirmation None Other (OCIA) Were you married in a Catholic Church? Yes No Next

St. Mary Church Music Ministry The Music Ministry of St. Mary Church consists of an adult choir , a youth choir , and a children's choir , and is led by Muriel Maharidge, who has been a parishioner at St. Mary’s since 2010 and holds a Doctorate in Choral Conducting. Muriel also serves as St. Mary’s principal cantor. Our principal organist is Laura Intravia, who started working with us in the Fall of 2022. Follow the links above for more details regarding membership and schedule for each choir. Read on for general information about the ministry. Note that St. Joseph's and St. Mary’s Church have their own distinct music ministry. Those wishing to get involved with the 8:30 AM Sunday Mass at St. Joseph should contact Jim DeLucia (see St. Joseph Church Choir information here). ​ Our Ministry: The beauty and the dignity of the liturgy is at the core of our work. In his apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium , His Holiness Pope Francis states, “Every expression of true beauty can […] be acknowledged as a path leading to an encounter with the Lord Jesus” and encourages us to have “a renewed esteem for beauty as a means of touching the human heart and enabling the truth and goodness of the Risen Christ to radiate within it” (#167). ​ Being a Choir Member: Anyone with some desire or ability to sing should feel encouraged to be a part of the music ministry, regardless of the extent of their formal musical training, because each choir practice includes systematic vocal coaching and musical formation . In other words: you provide the ‘raw vocal material’ and enthusiasm/assiduity, and we provide all the necessary training! Participation in a liturgical choir allows a privileged way to worship and deeper understanding of the liturgy; it is also a great gift of time and talent to make to one’s Creator, from which the entire congregation benefits. On a personal level, choral singing often leads to meaningful friendships and is a wonderful source of joy and artistic growth. There is much to give and much to gain! ​ Sacred Music at St. Mary - Its Purpose and Historical Roots: By definition, the sacred is what is ‘set apart for God .' When Moses approaches the Burning Bush, he is told to remove his sandals, which had been taking him through all the ordinary paths of life. Likewise, when we enter into the liturgy, we hope to orient ourselves fully toward God, and leave at the threshold our everyday ways and concerns. With this in mind, authentic sacred music ought to be, by design, particularly oriented toward God and completely distinct in style from what can be heard in everyday life. It is meant to lead hearts and minds into contemplation of the Divine and “disposed for the reception of the fruits of grace belonging to the celebration of the most holy mysteries” (Pope St. Pius X, Tra le Sollecitudini) . Sacrosanctum Concilium , the constitution on the Sacred Liturgy promulgated by His Holiness Pope St. Paul VI in 1963, in the context of the Second Vatican Council, continued to acknowledge Gregorian chant as “specially suited to the Roman liturgy” and “therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services." What gives chant this special suitability is that, unlike most other music, chant is made to adapt entirely to the text, which is treated as primordial over musical or poetic considerations such as meter or rhymes. Furthermore, the text used in chant is exclusively Biblical. While the Church used Latin for centuries, and could not, at the switch into liturgy in the vernacular, respond promptly to the demand for chant translated into modern languages (as it required writing all new music fitting the translated texts), such English versions of the chanted texts of Mass and the Divine Office have since become available. We make regular use of them at our 10:30 AM liturgy. While hymns came to be ubiquitous at Mass, in the time before translated chant could be obtained, congregants may have lost the awareness that the original structure of the Mass prescribes not only the reading but also the singing of specific, unique texts each Sunday . These sung texts, known collectively as the Proper of the Mass, are the musical counterpart of the readings and deepen the reflection on the readings’ meaning. They consist of a short Scripture quote, acting as an ‘antiphon’ (i.e. akin to a refrain) with passages of the psalms used as verses. The texts of the Proper of the Mass are sung during the Entrance Procession, the Offertory, and Communion. To grant all a more immediate understanding, these chants are regularly offered at St. Mary’s in their English version. Occasionally, especially at Communion when time allows, both the decade-old English and the centuries-old Latin version are sung. ​ On special occasions, the choir might offer a newly-composed polyphonic version or draw from the treasure trove of music by great composers who worked for the Catholic Church from the Renaissance onward. Unfortunately, a great number of masterpieces of old are now too long to be suitable for use in our modern liturgy. They are still invaluable for deepening private devotion. Every Sunday, the congregation is encouraged to join in the singing of the Ordinary, which is the collective name for all sung prayers that remain the same from Sunday to Sunday. Depending on the week and the liturgical season, we sing these in English or in Latin, which offers the most universality of use and the longest history. The chants of the Ordinary are: Kyrie eleison (‘Lord have mercy’ which is uniquely featured in ancient Greek), Gloria (‘Glory to God in the Highest’), Sanctus (‘Holy, Holy, Holy’), and Agnus Dei (‘Lamb of God’). At the conclusion of Mass, all are invited to raise their voices in the singing of the final hymn, from our “Worship” hymnal, found in the pews. If look forward picking up this red book at the end of Mass, it is a sure sign that you should prayerfully consider joining one of our choirs! ​ The Choirs of St. Mary Church: ​ Adult Mixed Choir / Male Schola Contact: Please email Dr. Muriel Maharidge, Director of Music, to register: murielmaharidge@gmail.com - new members are welcome year-round. Membership: The choir is open to all. Rather than an audition, membership is confirmed after a simple trial period. We strive to keep sections balanced with each other (ideally, 4 to 6 singers on each part) and are at the time in special need of bass singers (low male voices). Regular rehearsal time: Wednesday 6:15 - 7:30 PM (occasionally later when the season demands it) Participation in liturgies: Currently, in the context of rebuilding our ensembles after the pandemic, the preparation of all special feasts and solemnities takes precedence over the weekly presence of the choirs at Mass. In the coming year, as all the music for the highlights of the liturgical year is progressively mastered, additional repertoire for more regular use will be added. The mixed choir is especially involved during Advent, Lent, Holy Week, Eastertide, and other liturgical highlights. Schola: Occasionally, the men will be practicing chant alone as a Schola for the liturgical seasons of Advent and Lent. This is a great opportunity to approach singing for those who do not yet have experience singing in parts. ​ Youth Choir Contact: Please email Dr. Muriel Maharidge, Director of Music, to register yourself or your daughter(s): murielmaharidge@gmail.com - new members are welcome year-round. Membership: Ladies ages 12 and up. Young adults are also welcome. Junior members as young as 10 may be admitted based on readiness. Note that boys whose voice has changed are welcome to inquire about the adult choir. Regular rehearsal time: Wednesday 4:45 - 6 PM Participation in liturgies: Currently, in the context of rebuilding our ensembles after the pandemic, the preparation of all special feasts and solemnities takes precedence over the weekly presence of the choirs at Mass. In the coming year, as all the music for the highlights of the liturgical year is progressively mastered, additional repertoire for more regular use will be added. The Youth Choir is essential for two of our most special celebrations: the Christmas Midnight Mass and the Great Vigil of Easter. The choir also participate in regular monthly liturgies, especially for solemnities. ​ Children’s Choir ​ Contact: Please email Dr. Muriel Maharidge, Director of Music, to register your child(ren): murielmaharidge@gmail.com - new members are welcome year-round. Membership: Singers are welcome even at a very young age, based on readiness. (The youngest singers usually feel more confident on a parent’s lap). Between ages 10 and 12, singers may transition to the Youth Choir, but alumni are always welcome to stay and help! Regular rehearsal time: selected Sundays 9:30 - 10:15 AM, or as announced (at first, rehearsals might be shorter) - The frequency of rehearsal varies through the year. All rehearsals are open to the presence of parents and siblings, but we please ask for everyone’s help in keeping our work environment as quiet as possible. Participation in liturgies: For part of the year, participation in the children’s choir is done for its own sake, and children have an opportunity to learn about the the structure of Mass, the liturgical seasons, the functioning of their voices, the long history of Catholic sacred music, and the role of beauty in the worship of God. They gain confidence in their singing and discover a new way to open their hearts to God by learning traditional hymns, Gregorian chant, and easy rounds. Our singers also receive vocal training and learn rudiments of Latin. Each year, the Children’s Choir sings at the highlight of our liturgical year, at the Christmas and Easter morning Mass. Adult Mixed Choir / Male Schola Youth Choir Children's Choir

2023-2024 Faith Formation Programs Thank you for enrolling your child in Faith Formation at Bl. Michael McGivney Parish. Please find a description of the available offerings below. Please submit a SEPARATE FORM for EACH CHILD you wish to enroll. Thank you for your understanding and support as we transition to one Faith Formation program for the City of New Haven. ​ Registration opens Sunday, August 27th and is due by Thursday, September 14th . Please use the button below to register. **Registration for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is now CLOSED for the 2023-2024 year. ​ Payments can be made in the Faith Formation section of the 'Online Giving ' portal by clicking the 'Pay Here' button below. ​ There is a mandatory parent meeting for all programs on Sunday, October 1st, 12 - 2 PM . Please arrange for childcare and plan to have at least one parent present. The meeting will be held in the St. Joseph Church Hall (129 Edwards Street) and will be an opportunity to meet your child's catechists, receive the calendar, and hear about the programs. ​ All programs will begin meeting during the first week of October 2023. ​ Please direct all Faith Formation questions to: faithformation@newhavencatholic.org . Register Here Pay Here Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Read More Religious ​ Education Read More Confirmation Read More ​Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Faith Formation Program ** For children Pre-K3 through 3rd Grade (ages 3-8) The sessions will meet for 1.5 hours at various times throughout the week (Sunday-Thursday) at the St. Joseph Church Rectory . This is a Montessori method of catechetical formation held in a prepared and sacred env ironment, called an Atrium. Children who have completed a year in the Level 2 Atrium (ages 6-8) are invited to enroll in First Reconciliation and First Communion preparation in Spring 2024. If this will be your child's first year in the Level 2 Atrium, please exp ect them to enroll in First Communion prep in Spring 2025, rather than Spring 2024. Contact: Kay Perdue Meadows and Grace Klise ​ For more information about the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, see the program's homepage: http://www.cgsusa.org/ . Learn More Anchor 2 Anchor 1 Religious Education ** For children 4th Grade through 8th Grade (ages 9-13) ​ The sessions will meet on S aturdays, 9 - 10 :15 AM at St. Stanislaus Church . Children enrolled in Religious Education have already received their First Reconciliation and First Communion. Contact: Toni Lucian Anchor 3 Confirmation Preparation ​​** For youth in 9th Grade and 10th Grade (ages 14-15) In the Archdiocese of Hartford, it is customary that teens receive Confirmation during their sophomore year of high school. This means that the usual time for a teenager to begin our two year Confirmation preparation program is the fall of their freshman year of high school. The sessions will meet from 6 - 7:30 PM every other Wednesday at St. Mary Church . This is a two-year preparation program for Confirmation, with 10th Graders preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation in Spring 2024. ​ Contact: Brian and Vienna Murphy Learn More

Parish Staff Fr. Ryan Lerner Pastor in Solidum & Moderator (203) 562-6193 Ext. 247 fr.lerner@newhavencatholic.org Fr. Hector Rangel Pastor in Solidum (203) 865-6149 fr.rangel@newhavencatholic.org Fr. Sebastian Kos Pastor in Solidum (203) 562-2828 fr.kos@newhavencatholic.org Fr. Joseph MacNeill Parochial Vicar (203) 562-6193 Ex t. 115 fr.macneill@newhavencatholic.org Fr. Vincent Curran Parochial Vicar (203) 562-6193 Fr. Elmer Ramirez Parochial Vicar (203) 865-6149 fr.ramirez@newhavencatholic.org Martin O'Connor Deacon moconnor@newhavencatholic.org Ernie Scrivani, T.O., Carm. Deacon escrivani@newhavencatholic.org Larry Yergeau Deacon lyergeau@newhavencatholic.org Suzanne McDermott Director of Operations ​ (203) 562-6193 Ext. 117 smcdermott@newhavencatholic.org Daniel A. Dunphy Director of Finance (203) 562-6193 Ext. 150 ddunphy@newhavencatholic.org Emily Naylor Director of Communications (20 3) 562-6193 Ext. 134 communications@newhavencatholic.org