Sacraments In communion with the Catholic Church, Bl. Michael McGivney Parish offers a rich sacramental life. As a reminder: "Christ instituted the sacraments of the new law. There are seven: Baptism, Confirmation (or Chrismation), the Eucharist, Penance, the Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders and Matrimony. The seven sacraments touch all the stages and all the important moments of Christian life: they give birth and increase, healing and mission to the Christian's life of faith. There is thus a certain resemblance between the stages of natural life and the stages of the spiritual life." ​ (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1210 ) Use the Sacraments menu or read below to find out more about each sacrament. The regular Mass (Holy Eucharist) and Confession schedule can be found on the Mass Times page. Baptism ​ Read More Confession ​ Read More Confirmation ​ Read More Holy Eucharist ​ (Mass) Read More Holy ​ Matrimony Read More Holy Orders Read More Anointing of the Sick Read More

Contact Us info@newhavencatholic.org 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

St. Joseph Church Established 1900 On April 20, 1900, Saint Joseph Church was erected as part of a territorial parish from the territories of Saint Mary Parish (New Haven), Saint Patrick Parish (New Haven), and Saint Francis Parish (Fair Haven). The new and sizable congregation had been ably served since 1894 at a Lawrence Street chapel. Having combined the territories of these three neighboring parishes, a new church building was planned to house the sizable congregation serving primarily Italian immigrant families. Overseen by Reverend M.J. Daly and designed by Joseph A. Jackson, the church was constructed between 1904 and 1905 on Edwards Street. St. Joseph Church was and is a vital part of New Haven’s Orange Street Historic District. The finalized church was dedicated on October 22, 1905. ​ Located in the heart of the East Rock area of New Haven on 129 Edwards Street, the church bears a remarkable resemblance to the Basilica of Saint Apollinaris in Classe, Ravenna, Italy (c. 553-49). The yellow brick Romanesque edifice leads into the king’s hall (basilica) or the emperor’s court which reflects the Byzantine art and culture of the 6th century that attempted to convey the religious truth that only Christ is the ruler and emperor of the universe. When one steps inside St. Joseph Church, eyes are drawn to the altar and then upwards to the painted mural (representing the mosaic style of the early Byzantine art) consisting of the Lamb of God leading the flock to and through the crucifixion to the heavenly kingdom of Christ the eternal King. ​ In the 2000s, signs of distress of the 130-foot bell tower at the southeast corner of the entry façade became apparent. Reconstruction of a portion of the exterior masonry at the bell tower was repaired, protecting the one-hundred-year-old structure for future generations of worshippers.​ St. Joseph Church continues to lend itself to the historic fabric of its diverse neighborhoods and its importance to the communities of New Haven. In 2017, the church was merged with St. Mary Church to form St. Mary Parish. ​

Holy Matrimony "The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament." ( Catechism of the Catholic Church 1601 ) 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.

Holy Eucharist (Mass) "The holy Eucharist completes Christian initiation. Those who have been raised to the dignity of the royal priesthood by Baptism and configured more deeply to Christ by Confirmation participate with the whole community in the Lord's own sacrifice by means of the Eucharist. 'At the Last Supper, on the night he was betrayed, our Savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood. This he did in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross throughout the ages until he should come again, and so to entrust to his beloved Spouse, the Church, a memorial of his death and resurrection: a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a Paschal banquet in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.'" ​ ( Catechism of the Catholic Church 1322-1323 ) 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. Contact Us

St. Mary Church Established 1832 St. Mary Church was established as a community of the faithful in 1832. It is the oldest Catholic parish in New Haven and the second oldest in Connecticut. Land was purchased near the intersection of York Street and Milford Turnpike Road in New Haven. In 1834, a church was completed on this site and given the name "Christ Church." In 1848, the church was destroyed by fire. Several months after the fire, the property occupied by the Church Street Congregation Society was made available. Plans for the church were launched in 1851. Over the next 20 years, this ambitious and impressive edifice developed, designed by James Murphy—at a time when the city's Catholic population was steadily increasing. Built on New Haven's finest residential street, Hillhouse Avenue, St. Mary's represented the faith, the pride, and the high hopes of New Haven's struggling Catholic families. The church was dedicated in 1874, celebrated for its beauty but burdened financially. History of New Haven County, Connecticut, 1892 wrote of St. Mary Church, "It is a fit evidence of the vigor and zeal of the congregation which occupies it." The original plans for a steeple were dropped and the façade of St. Mary's for more than a century featured an un-topped stone tower without belfry or spire. Still, the church was from the first a remarkably handsome, forthright, and lasting symbol of Roman Catholic devotion in the city. ​ St. Mary Church is recognized as a shrine and birthplace of the Knights of Columbus. In 1882, assistant pastor, Fr. Michael J. McGivney, founded the Knights of Columbus, a fraternal benefit society to protect widows and children of working men and foster their faith and social program. Beginning humbly in the church basement with a handful of dedicated lay men, the Knights have miraculously multiplied to 1.6 million members worldwide. On Founders Day, March 1982, the remains of Father McGivney were re-entombed, making the church a shrine for Knights and other pilgrims who visit from all over the world. He was beatified on October 31, 2020. In 1886, the bishop of Hartford entrusted St. Mary Parish to the Dominican Friars of the Province of St. Joseph. A priory was established at that time to serve the parish and to be the base of a Mission Band of friars who travelled about giving parish missions. Under their energetic administration for 135 years until 2021, St. Mary remained a thriving primary Catholic presence in downtown New Haven.​ To day there remains an active Lay Fraternity of St. Dominic at the parish, and t he Dominicans continue to serve from their new priory in New Haven on staff at the Knights of Columbus home office, at Quinnipiac University, at Albertus Magnus College, and as chaplains for the Dominican nuns of the Monastery of Our Lady of Grace in North Guilford, CT. ​ In 1982, in recognition of the 100th Anniversary of the Knights of Columbus, the church went through a complete renovation. Although included in Murphy's original plans, the spire was never completed. The installation of the spire was part of the renovations, courtesy of the Knights of Columbus. Rising 179 feet from the once-stubby tower of the church, the neo-Gothic spire is among New Haven's highest structures. St. Mary Church also underwent massive historic preservation and artistic renovation from February 2019 to September 2020 under the guidance of Pastor John Paul Walker, OP. ​ In 2021, St. Mary’s was chosen to be the center of a new archdiocesan plan “because it is perfectly situated to be the geographical and spiritual focal point of a municipal model for New Haven.” The Archdiocesan plan for St. Mary’s called for diocesan priests to serve at St. Mary’s and the seven other churches in New Haven. The friars gifted the parish with a triduum of Masses in November, during which the whole parish family prayed together for the coming transition. Since December 1, 2021, our faithful diocesan fathers have led our dynamic parish with fatherly guidance and spiritual assurance in this new era as a New Haven Catholic parish.

St. Anthony Church Established 1904 The parish of St. Anthony was established in 1903 by Bishop Michael A. Tierney in response to a surge of Italian immigration in the Hill section of New Haven. Appointed founding pastor was Scalabrini Father Bartolomeo Marenchino, C.S. He came to St. Anthony in 1904 from St. Michael Parish, where St. Anthony parishioners had worshiped before the new parish was founded. Some 600 to 700 families made up the new congregation. Mostly laborers, craftsmen and shopkeepers, they melded powerful memories of their heritage and visions of the future into the "love story of a dynamic Italian Catholic congregation." Among the pioneering parish trustees were Angelo Porto and Santo Compasso. Prominent New Haven Italians like Paul Russo and William F. Verdi also helped organize the launching of the parish. A house was purchased on Gold Street to serve as the first rectory. ​ At the corner of Gold Street and Washington Avenue, a beautiful church of Vernacular Renaissance design was dedicated by Bishop Tierney on March 5, 1905. It featured an unusually rounded nave as well as a bell donated by nationally known theater magnate S. Z. Poli of New Haven. A people of history and culture, parishioners donated dozens of imported statues with uniquely crafted crystal eyes to remind them of their familiar Italian saints. In 1918, a new rectory was constructed. ​ About 12,000 baptisms had taken place during Father Marenchino's tenure by the time his successor, Father Silvio Sartori, C.S., arrived in June 1925. The next parish project was construction of a school. On August 30, 1936, Bishop Maurice F. McAuliffe dedicated St. Anthony School on Gold Street, complete with medical clinic. The school, serving 300 pupils, was staffed by the Missionary Zealatrices of the Sacred Heart, who took up residence at St. Anthony's Home for Orphans. Depressed times and an exodus of parishioners to the suburbs closed St. Anthony-School in 1971. ​ The church was rededicated in 1975. Its basement shrine to St. Anthony became a focal point for the revival of traditional piety, which sparked a cultural renaissance. Including a blessing of the sick, St. Anthony's feast became a three-day festival. ​ On September 16, 2009, the nearby parish of Sacred Heart was closed because of the declined condition of the church and rectory buildings. By indication of Archbishop Henry Mansell, the parish community of Sacred Heart was transferred to St. Anthony where both congregations shared the space and the responsibilities of the one church campus. In 2017, the communities were merged into one St. Anthony Parish and is home to a diverse community.

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

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

Confirmation "Baptism, the Eucharist, and the sacrament of Confirmation together constitute the 'sacraments of Christian initiation,' whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For 'by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed.'" ( Catechism of the Catholic Church 1285 ) 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.

St. Stanislaus Church Established 1901 The founding of St. Stanislaus Parish in New Haven bears eloquent testimony to the faith and dogged patriotism of the first Polish immigrant to New Haven. Despite the difficulties of adjusting to their new surroundings, language and customs, they left behind a beautiful church so that subsequent generations of parishioners could come together as a people of God. ​ The parish had its beginnings on February 2, 1896 when the Polish immigrants from the city of New Haven came together to form the St. Stanislaus Society. This society became the nucleus for the future St. Stanislaus Parish. Initially the group gathered for Mass at the German St. Boniface Church in New Haven, but in 1900 they began to make plans for a location of their own. A delegation from the St. Stanislaus Society petitioned Most Reverend Michael Tierney of the Hartford Diocese for permission to organize a parish. Bishop Tierney agreed and appointed Reverent Stanislaus Musiel to be pastor of the rising parish on September 12, 1900. ​ Father Musiel celebrated the first Mass at St. Boniface Germania Hall on Wooster Street on September 16. A year later, on December 28, 1901, the parish was officially founded and the pastor purchased a home and grocery store on Dwight Street and had it converted to a chapel. ​ On January 1, 1904, the Bishop entrusted the new parish to the Polish Vincentian Fathers and Reverend George Glogowski, CM, became the pastor. The Vincentians began their stewardship of the parish by offering a popular mission. The mission was a great spiritual experience for those who attended. The mission also revealed that the number of Polish immigrants in New Haven was far greater than expected. Their original chapel on Dwight Street would not be adequate to accommodate the numbers. ​ The pastor, Father Glogowski, bought an old Swedish Lutheran church with two houses on St. John Street. The church was large enough to accommodate the growing numbers of parishioners but it also supplied a rectory for the priests. The church was renovated and a steeple was added. Most Reverend Michael Tierney, Bishop of Hartford, dedicated the church on October 23, 1904 and placed it under the patronage of St. Stanislaus. In 1907 Reverend Anthony Mazurkiewicz, CM, became pastor. During his years as pastor, Father Mazurkiewicz eliminated the parish debt and opened a parochial school for the parish children in the basement of the Church, run by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. ​ The parish continued to grow very rapidly and by 1910 it was evident that they had outgrown both the church and the parish school. Father Mazurkiewicz began to look for a property that would be more centrally located in the city of New Haven. He found an abandoned church on the corner of State and Eld Streets, the present location of St. Stanislaus Parish. By 1911, the property was cleared and the foundation for the present church was laid. On Decoration Day in 1912, Most Reverent John Joseph Nilan, Bishop of Hartford, blessed the cornerstone of the new church. Just a year later, on April 27, 1913, the first Mass was said in the new church. A solemn Mass of dedication was celebrated by Bishop Nilan on May 30, 1913. ​ The parochial school was moved to the basement of the church where it remained for the next nine years. The parish also quickly acquired the adjacent lots and properties. In 1921, the parish demolished three houses on State Street in order to build a new school. It was completed in 1929. In 1993, St. Stanislaus School merged with St. Michael School. Both closed in 1995. ​ The interior of the church has changed over the years. In 1925, the pastor, Reverend Joseph Janowski, CM, commissioned artist P. Mazur to paint the many frescoes on the interior of the church. Stained glass windows from Aachen, Germany were installed in 1926. I n 1942 the pastor, Reverend Karol Pacherski, CM, commissioned Vincent Murdo of New Haven to beautify the interior of the church. “The Christianization of Poland in the 10th Century,” was chosen as the theme. The renovations were completed in 1943. A blessing for the redecorated church was held on October 11, 1943. In 1972, the original organ was rebuilt. Because the second Vatican Council had called for Mass to now be said facing the people of God, a new altar was installed. The rendition of the Last Supper was moved from the high altar to the front of the new Vatican II altar. The last major renovation in the church took place in anticipation of the 100 year anniversary of the parish by then pastor, Reverend Waclaw Hlond, CM. O n April 25, 1979, the New Haven Preservation Trust proclaimed the church building noteworthy for its distinguished interior. ​ In 2021, the Archdiocesan plan for the city of New Haven called for diocesan priests to serve at St. Stanislaus and the seven other churches in New Haven. The Vincentian Fathers currently still serve at other parishes in Connecticut and New York.