Upcoming Events

All parishes in Deanary D are invited to send their Confirmation candidates to this dynamic regional retreat, designed to inspire young disciples as they prepare to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

This day of formation, fun, and prayer will include engaging talks, interactive activities, small group discussions, music, and time for personal reflection and community prayer—all centered on deepening the candidates’ understanding of Confirmation and their call to mission.

Together, we’ll explore what it means to say yes to the Holy Spirit and live boldly as Catholic Christians in today’s world.

The cost per student is $20

Let’s grow together in faith and friendship—one Church, one Spirit.

Space is limited. Reserve spots for your parish today!

Every other week, parish faith formation leaders are invited to a half-hour online meeting to discuss upcoming events, learn more about what others are doing in their parishes, and brainstorm solutions to common problems. Our goal is to pray together, learn from each other, and leave affirmed that we are on the right path in our own parishes and ministry settings.

Who should attend?

Faith formation leaders, youth ministers, and others who are entrusted with catechetical leadership in their parish.

All meetings are on Tuesdays, and all are at 11 am. Meetings are not recorded.

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About Our Virtual Meetings
This gathering is a virtual meeting hosted by Zoom. The link below will take you directly to the live webinar. You may be asked to download Zoom. If you call in a few minutes before the meeting begins, you will likely hear music playing until we begin.

Join Zoom Meeting

If you would like to join by phone, dial one of these numbers: 646-558-8656, or 267-831-0333 and enter the Meeting ID: 853 8860 2979

Please note: the link for all parish leader check ins will be the same.

Learn about LEAD, the innovative learning platform developed by the Institute for Catholic Formation and the Diocese of Bridgeport, in partnership with the nerds at Fivable, LLC!

This platform offers online formation, registration for face-to-face gatherings, and a single source of truth when it comes to data for those in ministry.

These sessions are free and designed especially for catechetical leaders, liturgical ministry coordinators, and anyone who needs to track formation in a parish. Lunch will be served, so pre-registration is required. Please use the form below!

If possible, bring your laptop or tablet so we can learn online together.

Topics to be covered:
Overview
Local Leaders
Using Tasks
Building Communities
Communication Tools
Reports and Tracking Formation
Creating In-Person Formation Opportunities
And More!

Register:

Bishop Frank Caggiano invites all parents whose children are preparing for First Holy Communion to a special conversation about your vital role in this sacred journey.

This meeting is for parents at:

• Saint Lawrence


• Christ the King


• Saint Catherine of Siena


• Saint Joseph


• Saint Jude


• Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque


• Saint Stephen


• Saint Theresa

As the Directory for Catechesis teaches, parents are the first and most important catechists. Your witness of faith, love, and prayer lays the foundation for your child’s lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.

Join us as Bishop Caggiano encourages and equips you to live your calling as the “first heralds of the Gospel” in your home.

Download the event flyer here.

Registration will happen at the local level. Please contact your parish for more information.

Every other week, parish faith formation leaders are invited to a half-hour online meeting to discuss upcoming events, learn more about what others are doing in their parishes, and brainstorm solutions to common problems. Our goal is to pray together, learn from each other, and leave affirmed that we are on the right path in our own parishes and ministry settings.

Who should attend?

Faith formation leaders, youth ministers, and others who are entrusted with catechetical leadership in their parish.

All meetings are on Tuesdays, and all are at 11 am. Meetings are not recorded.

---

About Our Virtual Meetings
This gathering is a virtual meeting hosted by Zoom. The link below will take you directly to the live webinar. You may be asked to download Zoom. If you call in a few minutes before the meeting begins, you will likely hear music playing until we begin.

Join Zoom Meeting

If you would like to join by phone, dial one of these numbers: 646-558-8656, or 267-831-0333 and enter the Meeting ID: 853 8860 2979

Please note: the link for all parish leader check ins will be the same.

Gracias por inscribirse para la formación para el matrimonio. Su formación se llevará a cabo en persona en la iglesia San Pedro, 695 Colorado Ave, Bridgeport, CT

• Comenzamos a las 8:30 am y continuamos hasta las 5:00 pm.


• Recuerden que el retiro es solo para la pareja... si tiene hijos, favor de conseguir a alguien que los cuide.


• Habrá desayuno ligero y almuerzo

Felicitaciones por el gran evento en sus vidas y esperamos verlos.

Inscríbase ahora Se le invitará a inscribirse en el grupo matrimonial de LEAD, responder a algunas preguntas sobre usted y elegir una clase para la formación presencial.

All catechists are invited to a Day of Prayer and Renewal with Sr. Johanna Paruch, FSGM, a renowned professor of catechetics, speaker, and lifelong advocate for the Church’s catechetical mission.

This is the first day that Sr. Johanna will be offering the talk. To view the Sunday, February 8 event, please click here.

As the Directory for Catechesis reminds us, "Only catechists who live out their ministry as a vocation can contribute to the efficacy of catechesis” (DC 7). This day is designed to nourish the vocation you have embraced—drawing you into deeper communion with Christ, the source of all catechesis.

Through guided prayer, reflection, and the wisdom of Sr. Johanna, we will rediscover the joy and responsibility of being “witnesses of faith and keepers of the memory of God” (DC 113).

Take time to rest in the Lord, reconnect with your call, and be renewed for the ministry you so generously carry out.

Open to all parish and school catechists.

Download the event flyer here

About Our Presenter:

Sr. M. Johanna Paruch, FSGM, PhD grew up in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. She is a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George (FSGM). Sr. M. Johanna earned an undergraduate degree in deaf communication. She holds a BA in theology and elementary education from St. Louis University and an MA from the Angelicum, awarded after completing studies at Notre Dame Catechetical Institute. She also earned the Pontifical Catechetical Diploma. She has completed her doctorate at Maryvale Institute, Birmingham, England. In 1999, Sr. M. Johanna joined the Theology faculty of Franciscan University of Steubenville. She specializes in catechetics, and teaches both graduate and undergraduate students. Besides her teaching duties, Sr. M. Johanna travels throughout the country presenting workshops on catechist training, catechist retreats, and catechesis for persons with disabilities. She is a regular contributor to the Catechetical Review. In addition to her catechetical ministry, Sr. M. Johanna is engaged in research on the role of Catholic sisters in the American Civil War.

Register in LEAD  

All catechists are invited to a Day of Prayer and Renewal with Sr. Johanna Paruch, FSGM, a renowned professor of catechetics, speaker, and lifelong advocate for the Church’s catechetical mission.

This is the second day that Sr. Johanna will be offering the talk. To view the Saturday, February 7 event, please click here.

As the Directory for Catechesis reminds us, "Only catechists who live out their ministry as a vocation can contribute to the efficacy of catechesis” (DC 7). This day is designed to nourish the vocation you have embraced—drawing you into deeper communion with Christ, the source of all catechesis.

Through guided prayer, reflection, and the wisdom of Sr. Johanna, we will rediscover the joy and responsibility of being “witnesses of faith and keepers of the memory of God” (DC 113).

Take time to rest in the Lord, reconnect with your call, and be renewed for the ministry you so generously carry out.

Open to all parish and school catechists.

Download the event flyer here

About Our Presenter:

Sr. M. Johanna Paruch, FSGM, PhD grew up in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada. She is a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George (FSGM). Sr. M. Johanna earned an undergraduate degree in deaf communication. She holds a BA in theology and elementary education from St. Louis University and an MA from the Angelicum, awarded after completing studies at Notre Dame Catechetical Institute. She also earned the Pontifical Catechetical Diploma. She has completed her doctorate at Maryvale Institute, Birmingham, England. In 1999, Sr. M. Johanna joined the Theology faculty of Franciscan University of Steubenville. She specializes in catechetics, and teaches both graduate and undergraduate students. Besides her teaching duties, Sr. M. Johanna travels throughout the country presenting workshops on catechist training, catechist retreats, and catechesis for persons with disabilities. She is a regular contributor to the Catechetical Review. In addition to her catechetical ministry, Sr. M. Johanna is engaged in research on the role of Catholic sisters in the American Civil War.

Register in LEAD  

Every other week, parish faith formation leaders are invited to a half-hour online meeting to discuss upcoming events, learn more about what others are doing in their parishes, and brainstorm solutions to common problems. Our goal is to pray together, learn from each other, and leave affirmed that we are on the right path in our own parishes and ministry settings.

Who should attend?

Faith formation leaders, youth ministers, and others who are entrusted with catechetical leadership in their parish.

All meetings are on Tuesdays, and all are at 11 am. Meetings are not recorded.

---

About Our Virtual Meetings
This gathering is a virtual meeting hosted by Zoom. The link below will take you directly to the live webinar. You may be asked to download Zoom. If you call in a few minutes before the meeting begins, you will likely hear music playing until we begin.

Join Zoom Meeting

If you would like to join by phone, dial one of these numbers: 646-558-8656, or 267-831-0333 and enter the Meeting ID: 853 8860 2979

Please note: the link for all parish leader check ins will be the same.

Bishop Frank Caggiano invites all parents whose children are preparing for First Holy Communion to a special conversation about your vital role in this sacred journey.

This meeting is for parents at:

• Immaculate Heart of Mary


• Holy Trinity


• Saint Joseph, Danbury


• Our Lady of Guadalupe


• Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception of Aparecida


• Sacred Heart of Jesus


• Saint Edward the Confessor


• Saint Gregory the Great


• Saint Jospeh, Brookfield


• Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys


• Saint Mary


• Saint Peter


• Saint Rose of Lima

As the Directory for Catechesis teaches, parents are the first and most important catechists. Your witness of faith, love, and prayer lays the foundation for your child’s lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.

Join us as Bishop Caggiano encourages and equips you to live your calling as the “first heralds of the Gospel” in your home.

Download the event flyer here.

Registration will happen at the local level. Please contact your parish for more information.

Learn about LEAD, the innovative learning platform developed by the Institute for Catholic Formation and the Diocese of Bridgeport, in partnership with the nerds at Fivable, LLC!

This platform offers online formation, registration for face-to-face gatherings, and a single source of truth when it comes to data for those in ministry.

These sessions are free and designed especially for catechetical leaders, liturgical ministry coordinators, and anyone who needs to track formation in a parish. Lunch will be served, so pre-registration is required. Please use the form below!

If possible, bring your laptop or tablet so we can learn online together.

Topics to be covered:
Overview
Local Leaders
Using Tasks
Building Communities
Communication Tools
Reports and Tracking Formation
Creating In-Person Formation Opportunities
And More!

Register:

Bishop Frank Caggiano invites all parents whose children are preparing for First Holy Communion to a special conversation about your vital role in this sacred journey.

This meeting is for parents at:

• Saint Bridget of Ireland


• Saint Maurice


• Holy Name of Jesus


• Holy Spirit


• Notre Dame du Perpétuel Secours


• Our Lady Star of the Sea


• Sacred Heart


• Saint Benedict / Our Lady of Montserrat


• Saint Cecilia – Saint Gabriel


• Saint Clement of Rome


• Saint Leo


• Saint Mary


• The Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist

As the Directory for Catechesis teaches, parents are the first and most important catechists. Your witness of faith, love, and prayer lays the foundation for your child’s lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.

Join us as Bishop Caggiano encourages and equips you to live your calling as the “first heralds of the Gospel” in your home.

Download the event flyer here.

Registration will happen at the local level. Please contact your parish for more information.

Bishop Frank Caggiano invites all parents whose children are preparing for First Holy Communion to a special conversation about your vital role in this sacred journey.

This meeting is for parents at:

• Blessed Sacrament


• Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Catholic Community


• Our Lady of Fatima


• Our Lady of Good Counsel


• Saint Andrew


• Saint Ann


• Saint Charles Borromeo


• Saint Margaret Shrine


• Saint Mary


• Saint Michael the Archangel


• The Cathedral Parish


• Saint Peter


• Saints Cyril and Methodius

As the Directory for Catechesis teaches, parents are the first and most important catechists. Your witness of faith, love, and prayer lays the foundation for your child’s lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.

Join us as Bishop Caggiano encourages and equips you to live your calling as the “first heralds of the Gospel” in your home.

Download the event flyer here.

Registration will happen at the local level. Please contact your parish for more information.

Called and Confirmed: A Morning of Formation for Adults Seeking the Sacrament of Confirmation

Are you a practicing Catholic adult who has received Baptism and First Holy Communion, but have not yet been confirmed?

You are invited to a Morning of Formation designed especially for you.

Grounded in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, this session offers a welcoming space for adults to deepen their understanding of the faith, reflect on the meaning of Confirmation, and prepare spiritually and pastorally for this important step in Christian initiation.

As the Directory reminds us, “The catechumenal inspiration of catechesis… leads the believer to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ through the word of God, liturgical action, and charity” (DC 65). This morning is an opportunity to renew your journey of discipleship and say "yes" to the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

All participants must be baptized Catholics who actively practice their faith and are seeking Confirmation only.

Before this in-person event, register and complete the online portion of the class.

For those preparing to enter the Church at the Easter Vigil 2026, the Rite of Election is held on the first Sunday of Lent.

The 2026 Rite of Election will be held at St. Augustine Cathedral. Information has been sent to parish faith formation leaders in early December.

About the Rite
After long months of formation and preparation, as the season of Lent begins, the catechumens gather with the Bishop, other catechumens, pastors, and OCIA teams of many other parishes. During this rite, the catechumens formally declare their wish to enter fully into the life of the Church through baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist, and write their names in the Book of the Elect.

On the basis of the testimony of sponsors and catechists, the Bishop, representing the entire Church, admits the catechumens to the Easter sacraments of initiation: "I now declare you to be members of the Elect, to be initiated into the sacred mysteries at the next Easter Vigil. Now it is your duty, as it is ours, to be faithful to God and to strive courageously to reach the fullness of truth that your election opens before you.

For more information about the OCIA process, visit this page.

To help your parish prepare, we also are offering the following resources:

• OCIA Rites and Scrutinies

Every other week, parish faith formation leaders are invited to a half-hour online meeting to discuss upcoming events, learn more about what others are doing in their parishes, and brainstorm solutions to common problems. Our goal is to pray together, learn from each other, and leave affirmed that we are on the right path in our own parishes and ministry settings.

Who should attend?

Faith formation leaders, youth ministers, and others who are entrusted with catechetical leadership in their parish.

All meetings are on Tuesdays, and all are at 11 am. Meetings are not recorded.

---

About Our Virtual Meetings
This gathering is a virtual meeting hosted by Zoom. The link below will take you directly to the live webinar. You may be asked to download Zoom. If you call in a few minutes before the meeting begins, you will likely hear music playing until we begin.

Join Zoom Meeting

If you would like to join by phone, dial one of these numbers: 646-558-8656, or 267-831-0333 and enter the Meeting ID: 853 8860 2979

Please note: the link for all parish leader check ins will be the same.