Monthly Newspaper • DIOCESE OF BRIDGEPORT

NOTRE DAME, Ind. – Father Thomas Frances Elliott, CSC, 82, died at Holy Cross House, Notre Dame, Ind. on February 20, 2023 after a short illness.

Father Elliott was born on March 24, 1940 in Brooklyn, N.Y., the oldest of two children of Joseph and Filomena (Lofaro) Elliott. Father Elliott graduated from North Tarrytown High School in North Tarrytown, N.Y. in 1957. After graduating from high school, he began studies at the University of Notre Dame.

At the age of 19, he began his life in Holy Cross at St. Joseph Hall as a candidate for the priesthood. He entered the Holy Cross Novitiate in Jordan, Minn. on August 15, 1960, professed first vows on August 16, 1961 and professed final vows on August 16, 1964.

After graduating from the University of Notre Dame in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, he began theology studies at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. and graduated in 1969. He was ordained a Holy Cross priest on May 27, 1967 at St. Teresa Church in North Tarrytown, N.Y.

From 1969 to 1979, Father Elliott was assigned to the Formation Program at Moreau Seminary and also served as the Province Archivist, assisted at Holy Cross Parish in South Bend, Ind. and assisted at Fatima Retreat Center in Notre Dame, Ind. From 1980 to 1986, he was assigned as Associate Pastor at St. Stanislaus Parish in South Bend, Ind.

In 1986, he went to Boston, MA for training in Hospital Chaplaincy. He has served in various hospitals as chaplain, including Boston University Hospital in Boston, Mass. (1987-1990), O’Connor Hospital in San Jose, Calif. (1990-1991), Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital in Chicago (1991-1995) and St. Vincent Medical Center in Bridgeport, Conn. (1995-2001). He served as Chaplain for the School of Sisters of Notre Dame in Wilton, Conn. from 2001 to 2021.

In 2021, Father Elliott retired to Holy Cross House in Notre Dame, Ind. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Filomena Elliott. He is survived by his sister, Marianne (Bob) Morin, their six children, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Notre Dame, Ind.. Memorial contributions in support of the mission and ministries of the Congregation of Holy Cross can be made to: United States Province of Priests and Brothers, Office of Mission Advancement, P.O. Box 765, Notre Dame, IN 46556-0765 or online at https://donate.holycrossusa.org.

Joseph M.C. Kung (“Joe”), the Kung family stalwart and an ardent advocate for the persecuted underground Roman Catholic Church in China, passed away in the early morning hours of February 14, 2023. He was one month shy of his 91st birthday.

Born in Shanghai, China to a distinguished sixth generation Catholic family, he was the second of eight children of Dr. Vincent Kung, a surgeon, and Theresa Yao, a homemaker.

He lived a life of faith, courage, and principle. Always taking the long view, he fought for what was right and just for both his family and so many others.

At 18 years old in 1950, soon after the Communist took over China, he left Shanghai to be reunited with his father, who had fled to Hong Kong months earlier. As the border closed soon after, he could not see his siblings and his mother again for almost 30 years. His father died two years later, leaving him penniless and alone. Joe’s family remains forever grateful to Shanghainese family friends who assisted Joe during this time.

Joe is a proud beneficiary of the Refugee Relief Act of 1953. As a recipient of one of 2,000 visas granted to Chinese refugees, he relocated in 1955 to Ohio and enrolled at John Carroll University. He worked full time throughout his entire four years to put himself through school, graduating in 1959. He continued his education culminating with 2 MBAs – one each from (Case) Western Reserve University and Wayne State University. He was a CPA by trade.

Eventually, he returned to Hong Kong where he married his future wife, Agnes, in 1968. They were blessed with the birth of his four surviving children. A lifelong fervent American patriot, Joe is forever grateful to the United States for his many opportunities including the relocation of his young family to Stamford, Conn. in 1979 to the home that he lived in for the remainder of his life.

Aside from his four children, Joe is most proud of three accomplishments. First, the joy of facilitating the immigration of his mother and six siblings along with their immediate families to the United States. Seeing them happily retired and the next generation blossoming in the land of freedom was one of his greatest joys.

Second, keeping alive the memory of then Bishop (now Cardinal) Kung and successfully fighting for his release in 1987 after 32 years of incarceration in China for his religious beliefs and leadership.

Third, establishing in 1992 the Cardinal Kung Foundation not only to promote the persecuted Roman Catholic Church in China, but also to champion the cause for Cardinal Kung’s canonization.

Joe Kung testified to Congress on multiple occasions, convinced 54 members of Congress to sign a letter to China’s Premier pleading for Cardinal Kung’s release, served as an expert witness to gain asylum for over 30 individuals or families of verified persecuted underground Catholics, and supported hundreds of underground clergy and nuns in renowned European seminaries and universities. His dedication, supported by his Board of Directors, resulted in both awards and condemnation including the Cardinal Mindszenty Award and being named as the biggest enemy of the Chinese government approved Patriotic Association catholic church by one director of a major religious community.

Joe was also a hobbyist inventor, a founder of two companies, a lifelong lover of classical music, a connoisseur of sweets, and above all, a loving dedicated family man.

Joe was predeceased by his older sister Ming Zhu, his beloved parents Dr. Vincent Kung and Theresa Yao Kung, as well as his cherished uncle Ignatius Cardinal Kung. He is survived by his wife of 54 years (Agnes), four children and their spouses (Terese Kung & Tom Scally, John Kung, Francis Kung & Colleen Sharkey-Kung, and Mary Kung), and granddaughter Thea Kung; six siblings and their spouses (Min Sun & Hong Qi Kung, Margaret & Ignatius Chu, Michael and Amy Kung, Peter & Mary Kung, Margaret and David Pang, Martha Ming Kung & John C. Hung); nine nephews and nieces and their spouses, and eight grand nephews and nieces.

Friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford on Friday, February 24, 2023, from 4:30 to 7 pm (with eulogy at 5:30 pm). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 25, 2023, at 10 am at the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist, 279 Atlantic Street, Stamford. Interment will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Cardinal Kung Foundation www.cardinalkungfoundation.org

BRIDGEPORT– Deacon Brian J. Kelly, Ph.D., age 82, of Bridgeport, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. Born in Meriden to the late Joseph Kelly and Marguerite Bengston Kelly, he was a lifelong area resident and a U.S. Coast Guard veteran.

Dr. Kelly ran his own psychology practice with a focus on Dr. Murray Bowen Family Systems. He was an ordained Deacon and served for 30 years at St. Luke Church in Westport. He was also a longtime member of Fayerweather Yacht Club and served as the Chaplain for several years.

“It is with sadness I must inform you of the death of Deacon Brian J. Kelly, Ph.D. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon Kelly and for the consolation of his family,” Bishop Caggiano said in his announcement to diocesan clergy..

He is survived by his children, Justin Kelly and his wife Judith, Bronwyn Kelly and her husband, Adam Woods and Whitney Kelly; sister, Patsy Kelly; grandchildren, Bryce Kelly and Wyatt and Vivian Woods; nephews, Patrick and Casey King; and dear friend, Linda “Charlie” Davison. He was predeceased by his brother, Dennis Kelly.

Deacon Brian will lie in repose at St. Luke Church, 49 N. Turkey Hill Rd. in Westport from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 23, 2023. The Deacons of the Diocese of Bridgeport will gather to pray at 6:30 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Monsignor Robert Kinnally, Vicar General of the Diocese of Bridgeport, on Friday, February 24, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the church, with a reception immediately following the Mass in the church’s community room. Interment with Military Honors will be held privately at St. Lawrence Cemetery in West Haven.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.shaughnesseybanks.com

BRIDGEPORT– Deacon James Michael Volpe of Sandy Hook passed away on Sunday February 5.

“It is with great sadness that I must inform you of the death of Deacon James M. Volpe. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon Volpe and for the consolation of his family,” Bishop Frank J. Caggiano said in his announcement.

A native of Bridgeport, Deacon Volpe was ordained by the Most Rev. Edward M. Egan on December 17, 1988 at St. Augustine Cathedral in Bridgeport.

He was assigned to St. Ambrose Parish in Bridgeport and later served as Chaplain of Bishop Curtis Homes on Palisade Avenue in Bridgeport.

Born in 1952, Deacon Volpe was a member of the 1966 Class of St. Raphael School in Bridgeport. He graduated from Kolbe high School in 1970, and from Sacred Heart University in 1974. He also took graduate studies at Fairfield University. He retired in July 2011.

He and his late wife, Kathleen, were the parents of three grown children, Jessica Volpe of Ansonia, Sara Manrique (Edgar) of Derby, Rebecca Earl (Steven) of Arkansas, and eight grandchildren.

A wake will take place on Wednesday, February 8 from 4PM to 7PM at Cyril Mullins Funeral Home located at 399 White Plains Road in Trumbull.

The Funeral Mass is scheduled for Thursday, February 9 at 9:30 AM at Saint Margaret Shrine 2523 Park Avenue in Bridgeport. Interment will take place immediately following the Funeral Mass at Mountain Grove Cemetery in Easton.

Click for full obituary:

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/legacy/obituary.aspx?pid=203822501

Deacon Gary Edward Carpenter, age 81, of Milton, Delaware, a retired Deacon for the Diocese of Bridgeport, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Sunday, December 25, 2022 in Wilmington, DE.

Born in Bridgeport, the son of the late Hubert and Viola (Hurlburt) Carpenter, he was raised in Black Rock. He graduated from Black Rock School, Bassick High School, attended Salem College and received a BS in Graphic Design from the University of Bridgeport.

Deacon Gary was employed for many years as a Creative Art Director at the C.R. Gibson Company in Norwalk and used his talent to design the layout of Fairfield County Catholic. Gary volunteered for Young Life, a non-denominational ministry to middle and high school students in Darien, CT.

Gary was ordained to the Diaconate for the Diocese of Bridgeport in 1986 and was assigned to St. Stephen’s Church in Trumbull serving there for 27 years where he assisted with pastoral duties including the Parish Advisory Council, conducted Confirmation and First Holy Eucharist training, taught CCD and helped run the RCIA program. Gary was a leader in the Emmaus ministry at St. Stephens, sharing the love of God with high school students for many years.

When called on, Gary would also assist other parishes throughout the Diocese which he took great pleasure in doing. He was a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus-St. Stephen’s Council #13063. Gary led a Bible study group in Black Rock that led to the creation of the Black Rock Food Pantry with fellow member, the late Gerry Habansky. He had a smile that could not be forgotten and his sense of humor kept his friends and family laughing.

Gary loved God and loved others, he will be sadly missed by his beloved wife of 58 years, Joan (Lattin) Carpenter of Milton, DE; four loving children, Thomas Carpenter and his wife Kim of Southbury, James Carpenter and his wife, Julie of Wilmington, DE, Aaron Carpenter and his wife, Linda of Wilmington DE, and Caitlin Bell and her husband, Ben of Wilmington, DE; nine cherished grandchildren, Megan, Caleb, Rachel, Ashley, James, Michael, Molly, Liam, and Brady; a sister Sally Pennoyer and her husband, Ray of Beacon Falls; a sister-in-law, Carol Carpenter of MA and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Douglas Carpenter.

Deacon Gary will be received at St. Stephen’s Church Monday, January 2, 2023, at 3:30 p.m. and will lie in repose from 4-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by The Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Stephens Church. Interment will follow in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Fairfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Black Rock Food Pantry, 5 King Street, Bridgeport, CT 06605

GREENWICH—James T. Larkin, of Greenwich died on November 22, 2022 at the age of 91, of acute leukemia.

Born in Quincy, MA on September 6, 1931, to Dr. Richard J. Larkin, DDS and Alice Murphy Larkin, Jim was a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross (’53) and Wharton Business School (’58), which he attended on the G.I. Bill.

He joined the Marine Corps in 1953 and became a company commander at 22 serving in Korea. After serving two tours of active duty and volunteer reserve service, he was honorably discharged as a Captain in 1965.

Jim’s professional career spanned 40 years in the media and financial services industries. He began his career at the American Broadcasting Company in 1958 and was one of the founding executives developing and expanding investments in 21 countries in Asia and Latin America.

In 1970 he joined American Express as a Vice President. Over the course of his 23-year tenure with American Express he held a series of senior roles in sales, marketing, payments and travel related services, and was instrumental in the rapid international growth of American Express Travelers Cheques. He traveled to nearly every market in which American Express was active and managed many of their most senior and critical relationships, eventually becoming Vice Chairman of American Express International. He retired in 1993.

Throughout his life, Jim was involved in many civic, not-for-profit and ecumenical works. He was founding Executive Committee member of Cooperation Ireland, which supported cultural exchange between youth from Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic to promote peace and understanding. He served on the board of the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra; was a Trustee and Treasurer of the New England Genealogical Society; a Trustee of the Quincy Historical Society and a Trustee and Treasurer for the Naval War College Foundation, where he endowed a permanent award for academic excellence by a Marine Corps officer. From 2004-2009, Jim served as the Chairman of the Investment Advisory Council for the State of Connecticut. Devoted to ecumenical affairs, he was a contributor to the International Theological Dialogue between the Orthodox and Catholic Church, and served as an Ecumenical Patriarchate delegate to the Peace Conference on Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1994.

His awards for public service include: the Cross of St. Andrew, awarded to a Catholic by the Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarch; Citation from the General Assembly of the State of Connecticut; the Meritorious Service Medal from the Naval War College Foundation; and the Fenwick Award as a Life Benefactor from the College of the Holy Cross.

He was a member of the Wardroom Club in Boston, the Greenwich Republican Roundtable, The Harpoon Club, the Metropolitan Club of New York, the Indian Harbor Yacht Club and a Life Member of the 1st and 3rd Marine Division Associations, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Military Officers Association of America.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Susan Gardiner Larkin; his children Kate Larkin Laverge (Albert) of Riverside, CT, and grandchildren, Allie and Charlie, and James Larkin, Jr (Cecilia) of Santa Fe, NM and grandchildren, Carmen, Raphael, Madeline, Penelope, and William; brother David J. Larkin (Robin) of Edina, MN; sister Mary Jane Larkin of Quincy, MA; as well as many dear nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his siblings, Richard J. Larkin, John P. Larkin, Michael Larkin, Alice Wedd Larkin, and Nancy Dowling Larkin.

A visitation will be held at Knapp Funeral Home (267 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich, CT) on Tuesday, November 29th from 5-7 pm. A Mass to celebrate Jim’s life will be offered at St. Mary Church (178 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich, CT) on Wednesday, November 30th at 10:00am. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Mary’s Putnam Cemetery (35 Parsonage Road, Greenwich, CT). The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to Kids in Crisis.

BRIDGEPORT—Reverend Jose de Brito Alves died, this morning, September 6, in Portugal. He was 78 years of age.

“Many in our Diocese will fondly remember Fr. Alves for his long-time ministry to the Portuguese community at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Bridgeport,” said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano. “Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Alves and the consolation of his family.”

Jose de Brito Alves was born on May 25, 1944 in Portugal, the son of Manuel Jose Alves and Isaura Mendes de Brito, in the parish of Mei, municipality of Arcos de Valdevez, Diocese of Viana do Castelo.

From an early age he felt the call to the priestly life, attending the Braga Seminaries from 1955-1967.

On the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the Apparitions of Our Lady of Fátima, he was ordained a priest on August 15, 1967, in the Sanctuary of Fátima, by Cardinal D. Manuel Gonçalves Cerejeira.

On August 29, 1967, he was appointed by the Archbishop of Braga as parish priest of Cossourado and Linhares, municipality, archpriestship of Paredes de Coura. After two years, he was released from the parish of Linhares to take over the community of Sapardos, municipality of Vila Nova de Cerveira in June of 1969.

Father Alves requested permission from his bishop to come to the Diocese of Bridgeport to serve the Portuguese community of the city of Bridgeport. Bishop Walter Curtis agreed to receive Father Alves and in May 1975, he was appointed as the Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Bridgeport. He served in that capacity until 1996, when he was appointed Administrator of the parish. Father held this appointment until his retirement in 2019.

In his retirement Father Alves returned to the Diocese of Viana do Castelo, residing and collaborating pastorally in Arcos de Valdevez. On October 18, 2019, he was temporarily appointed parish priest of the parishes of Álvora and Portela, archpriestship of Arcos de Valdevez.

All services will be conducted for Father Alves in Portugal.

BRIDGEPORT—Reverend Nick A. Cirillo, pastor of St. Edward the Confessor Parish in New Fairfield, went home to the Lord on Sunday, August 28, 2022. He was 54 years of age.

“Father Nick faced his suffering and final illness with great courage and faith. He wanted all to know that he left this world filled with gratitude for all the goodness that God had shared with him, in his life and priesthood,” said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano. “Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Cirillo and for the consolation of his family.”

Nick Anthony Cirillo was born on August 16, 1968. He was baptized in Saint Andrew Church in Bridgeport. He also received his First Holy Communion and Confirmation at Saint Andrew.  Father Cirillo received his grammar school education in Bridgeport public schools and attended Notre Dame High School in Fairfield from which he graduated in 1986. He majored in religious studies and philosophy at Fairfield University receiving his Bachelor of Arts in 1990. 

Father Cirillo received his priestly formation at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, and was granted a Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology.  He was ordained to the priesthood at Saint Augustine Cathedral on July 1, 1995 by Bishop Edward M. Egan.  

Immediately following his ordination, Father Cirillo was given a summer assignment at St. Lawrence Parish in Shelton after which he returned to Rome to complete his Licentiate. Upon his return to the diocese in 1996, he was once again assigned to St. Lawrence Church. This was followed by a six-year assignment commencing in 2005 at Trinity Catholic High School in Stamford while living at the St. John Fisher Seminary. He served as a spiritual director at both places.

He was named pastor of St. Edward the Confessor Parish in New Fairfield in 2011, where he served until his passing. 

Father Cirillo served several terms on the Presbyteral Council. He was also Dean of Our Lady, Queen of Confessors Deanery from 2017 until his passing. 

In 2008, when he was serving as spiritual director of St John Fisher Seminary, Father Cirillo wrote a memorable tribute to Father Joseph Linck who had passed away at the age of 43. Father Cirillo’s words of remembrance for Father Linck also beautifully commemorate his own final days and the courage of his priestly witness:  “He was faithful in life, providing a model of how to love of God above all things and to trust His providence. He was faithful even in death, showing us how to bear suffering with steadfast faith and reserved dignity. Even as illness claimed more and more of his strength, he struggled to offer whatever he could muster for the sake of his ministry and for the glory of God.” 

Father Cirillo’s body will be received on Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at St. Edward the Confessor Church, 21 Brush Hill Rd., New Fairfield at 3:00 pm and will lie in repose until 7:00 pm. At 7:00 pm a Mass will be celebrated for the repose of his soul with Reverend Robert Crofut as homilist. Bishop Caggiano will celebrate Father Cirillo’s Funeral Mass and serve as homilist on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at 11:00 am.                        

BRIDGEPORT– Deacon Roland Joseph “Rocky” Blier died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday August 10, 2022, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 91.

“It is with great sadness I must inform you of the death of Deacon Roland J. Blier,” Bishop Caggiano said in making the announcement.

“As a member of the inaugural class of Deacons in the diocese, Deacon Blier was a living sign of service who brought Christ to the workplace and to all those he accompanied in their faith journey. He was blessed with a long and fruitful life, which he freely shared with so many. Though successful in all that he did, Roland Blier found his true and deepest calling in his ministry. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon Blier and for the consolation of his loving family.”

Ordained a deacon in 1978, by the Most Rev. Walter W. Curtis, second Bishop of Bridgeport, he served at St. Andrew Parish in Bridgeport and St. Thomas More parish in Darien. Deacon Blier took great joy in delivering the children’s sermons, managing to be completely compelling to the children while simultaneously delivering a pointed message to the parents.

Born in rural Van Buren, ME, to Joseph and Catherine (Ouellette) Blier, he was the fourteenth of 18 children. He attended Van Buren Boys’ High School briefly before leaving to help support his family, working odd jobs before enlisting in the Air Force in 1951.

While home visiting his parents in late 1954, he was introduced to Priscilla Violette. They were engaged by Valentine’s Day, 1955, and married in August. Three children and 19 moves later, he retired from the Air Force in 1974 with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and moved to Bridgeport, CT. His distinguished Air Force career was followed by 21 years as a logistics engineer with Sikorsky Aircraft.

Deacon Blier greeting a parishioner 1997

Deacon Blier is remembered by family and friends for his commitment to doing good work and taking care of people and helping them get through difficulties in their lives. Among his honors and achievements are receiving a Bronze Star for his tour of duty at Bien Hoa, Vietnam; achieving the rank of Fourth Degree in the Knights of Columbus; and becoming a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre in recognition of his service to the Church. Additionally, he earned a bachelor’s and two master’s degrees well into his 50s.

Friends and family remember that in the end, when Parkinson’s took a lot of his language and his ability to tell the stories he loved to share. But what remained were phrases like, “I thank you!” “Love you, too.” And “Boy, that’s good!” along with his infectious full-face smile. He did what he always did right until the end, devotedly cheering people on and ensuring they were ok, making him a favorite among the good people who cared for him. He went peacefully, confident in a life well-lived and the love of people too numerous to name.

He is survived by his wife, Priscilla; his children, Peter Blier and wife Patty Blauner, Maggie McCarthy, and Helen Blier; 9 grandchildren: Ben Blier and wife Veronica Haakonsen, Noah Blier, Micki McCarthy, Kristin Bradbury and husband Andy, Patrick McCarthy and wife Kelly, Jackie Mizak and husband Dan, Kevin McCarthy, JB Parker-Blier, and Abbey Parker-Blier; and 6 great-grandchildren: Gabe McCarthy; Eleanor, Margaret, and George Bradbury; and Skyla and Willow Mizak.

The Funeral Mass will be held at 12 PM on Friday, August 19, 2022 at St. Andrew Church, 435 Anton St., Bridgeport, CT. It will also be livestreamed on the church’s Facebook Page. Calling Hours will take place Friday morning from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM in St. Andrew Church.

The Commerce Hill Funeral Home, 4798 Main St., Bridgeport, has been entrusted with the services. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers that donations be sent to The Parkinson’s Foundation ( parkinson.org ) or Foundations In Education ( foundationsineducation.org ). For online condolences, memorial tributes and to make a donation, visit us at commercehillfh.com

BRIDGEPORT—Father Bernard A. Keefe died on Tuesday, July 26, 2022. He was 89 years of age.

“Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Keefe and for the consolation of his family,” Bishop Caggiano said in making the announcement.

Bernard A. Keefe was born on April 21, 1933. He served in the United States Navy from 1951-1955. Father Keefe received his priestly formation at Christ the King Seminary in Olean, New York and was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Albany on December 21, 1963.

Following his ordination, he began his priestly ministry at Immaculate Conception Church in Scotia, New York. In subsequent years, he served at Saint Mary Church in Glens Falls, New York and Saint Mary Church in Hudson, New York.

In 1976, Father Keefe came to the Diocese of Bridgeport; his first assignment was at Saint Charles Borromeo Church in Bridgeport. He was transferred to St. Peter Church in Danbury in 1981 and then five years later to St. Maurice Church in the Glenbrook section of Stamford. While serving at Saint Maurice, Father Keefe was incardinated into the Diocese of Bridgeport on April 25, 1988.

In 2004, Father Keefe moved to Saint Aloysius Church in New Canaan where he served until his retirement in 2008.

Bishop Frank J. Caggiano will celebrate Father Keefe’s Funeral Mass on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at 9:30 am at St. Aloysius Church. The homilist will be Monsignor William Scheyd.

BRIDGEPORT—Father Philip Walter Brady passed away on Tuesday, June 22, 2022. He was 103 years of age.

“Father Brady had a remarkable 79-year priesthood and is still remembered fondly by many in our diocese, particularly his many friends at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Shelton. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Brady and for the consolation of his family,” said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano.

Philip Brady was born in Rochester, N.Y., on September 16, 1918, the son of Philip and Dorothy Brady. He was baptized on September 28, 1918.

Father Brady attended St. Mark’s School and Little Seminary, both in Buffalo, N.Y. Upon finishing high school in 1936, he continued his studies at St. Columban’s Preparatory Seminary in Silver Creek, N.Y. and later studied theology at St. Columban’s Seminary in St. Columbans, Nebraska.

Father Brady was ordained to the priesthood on December 18, 1943, by Most Reverend J. A. Duffy in Buffalo, N.Y. as a member of the Foreign Missionary Society of St. Columban.

Following his ordination, his first assignment was as a parish priest in the Diocese of Buffalo. Next, he was transferred to the Society’s seminary in Milton Massachusetts. For the next 13 years, he was assigned to promotion work, which involved encouraging vocations and raising funds for the Columban Fathers.

Father did this work in New England where, over a three-year period, he helped out at St.Mary Church in Milford. The Society then assigned him to teach in their seminary high school in Silver Creek, N.Y.

In 1960, he requested release from his oath of membership in the Foreign Missionary Society of St. Columban and began a three-year trial assignment in the Diocese of Bridgeport. During those years, he served at St. Mary Church in Greenwich, St. Mary High School and St.Joseph Hospital in Stamford. In 1963, he was incardinated in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Also in 1963, Father Brady received a master’s of science in Education from Canisius College in Buffalo.

After his incardination, Father Brady continued in his assignment as spiritual director and faculty member at St. Mary Girls High School, residing at St. Paul Church in the Glenville section of Greenwich. In 1968, Bishop Walter Curtis appointed him as the second pastor of St. Margaret Mary Church in Shelton where he served until his retirement in 1993.

Father Brady served as a member of the Priests’ Council from 1975-1977.

Upon retirement, Father Brady moved to New Hampshire, where he assisted part-time at St.Joseph Church in Woodsville until 2005. At that time, due to health concerns, he moved to Yucca, Valley, California and received permission to assist at local parishes in the Diocese of San Bernardino. In 2010, he returned to the Buffalo area and moved into a senior living community in Orchard Park, N.Y.

Father Brady’s Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Nativity of OurLord Church in Orchard Park, N.Y.

Click here to read this tribute by Joe Pisani.

BRIDGEPORT—Father Nello A. Barachini passed away on Friday afternoon, May 20, 2022. He was 94 years of age.

“Please pray for the repose of the soul of Father Barachini and for the consolation of his family,” said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano. Father Barachini was known to many in the Bridgeport area as former chaplain of Bridgeport Hospital.

Nello Barachini was born in Albany, N.Y., on February 18, 1928, son of Louis and Maria Barachini. He was baptized at St. Anthony Church in Albany and confirmed at St. Joseph Church, also in Albany.

He attended St. Joseph Academy School and Bethlehem Central High School. Father Barachini served in the United States Navy and as 2nd Officer in the US Merchant Marines for over 25 years prior to entering the Vincentian Order. He studied theology at St. Joseph Seminary in Callicoon, N.Y., Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Conn. and the Angelicum in Rome. Father Barachini was ordained to the priesthood on October 11, 1986 by Most Reverend John F. Hackett at St. Michael Church in Derby.

Following his ordination, his first assignment as a Vincentian priest was at St. Stanislaus Church in New Haven, Conn. from 1986-1989. Next, he was transferred to St. Michael Church in Derby, serving until 1991. At that time, he formally requested incardination in the Diocese of Bridgeport as well as release from his vows as a Vincentian. In 1992, he was appointed the chaplain at Bridgeport Hospital, residing at St. Ambrose Church. Father served at Bridgeport Hospital for 14 years. After three years of service, Father’s request for incardination was granted in November of 1994. Father Barachini served at St. Jerome Parish in Norwalk in his first assignment in the diocese. He also resided at St. Margaret Mary in Shelton and St. Mark in Stratford. He retired from full-time ministry in 2003, but continued to assist at Bridgeport Hospital and St. Mark until his health made it impossible.

Given his seafaring background, Father Barachini served as chaplain to the Port of the City of Bridgeport for a number of years, beginning in 1992.

Father Barachini’s body will be received at St. Lawrence Church located at 505 Shelton Avenue in Shelton on Friday, May 27 at 4 pm and will lie in repose until 7 pm. At 7 pm, Mass will be celebrated for the repose of Father Barachini’s soul. The principal celebrant will be Father Ciprian Bejan, pastor of St. Lawrence; the homilist will be Reverend Joseph Marcello.

Bishop Caggiano will celebrate the Funeral Mass on Saturday, May 28 at 10 am. The homilist will be Father Ciprian Bejan.

BRIDGEPORT—Monsignor Andrew G. Varga, pastor of St. Luke Parish in Westport, passed away on Monday afternoon, March 7, 2022. He was 69 years of age.

“Monsignor Varga had an abiding love and appreciation for the people of his parish and a generous heart toward all those in need and will be deeply missed. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Msgr. Varga and for the consolation of his family,” said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano in making the announcement.

Msgr. Varga was appointed pastor of St. Luke Church in Westport in 1997, a position he held for 25 years. He also served the diocese as a territorial vicar and as a member of the Presbyteral Council and the College of Consultors.

He was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Bridgeport by the Most Reverend Walter W. Curtis at St. Augustine Cathedral in Bridgeport on May 6, 1978.

Andrew George Varga was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, on November 3, 1952, son of Andrew and Gizella Varga. He was baptized on November 30, 1952, at St. Stephen Church on Spruce Street in Bridgeport. He made his First Holy Communion and received the Sacrament of Confirmation at Holy Name of Jesus Church in Stratford.

He attended Saint Holy Name of Jesus School, Fairfield College Preparatory School in Fairfield and Fairfield University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Monsignor Varga received his priestly formation at the Theological College of the Catholic University of America, receiving a Master of Arts in Theology.

Following his ordination, his first assignment was as associate pastor of St. Matthew Church in Norwalk (1978-1983). In 1983, he was transferred to St. Theresa Church in Trumbull where he had served as a deacon. In 1991, Monsignor Varga was assigned to St. Leo Church in Stamford. In February 1992, he was assigned as temporary administrator of St. Joseph Parish in Brookfield before formally being made pastor in August of the same year.

In 1982, he was awarded a Doctor of Ministry degree from the School of Religious Studies in the Department of Theology at the Catholic University of America. Throughout his years of priestly ministry in the diocese, Msgr. Varga served on both the Presbyteral Council and the College of Consultors. Bishop Caggiano appointed Msgr. Varga as territorial vicar for Vicariate II in 2014.

He chaired the Diocesan Liturgical Commission for many years, served on the Sacred Arts Committee and was an active team member of the North American Forum on the Catechumenate, speaking at workshops around the country.

In addition, Msgr. taught homiletics in the Permanent Diaconate Formation Program for many years. Monsignor Varga was a member of the committee appointed by Bishop William Lori for the preparation and catechesis for the new English translation of the Roman Missal in 2011.

In 2008, Msgr. Varga received the great honor of being named chaplain to His Holiness.

Monsignor Varga’s body will be received at St. Luke Church in Westport on Thursday, March 17 at 3 pm and will lie in repose until 7 pm. At 7 pm, Mass will be celebrated for the repose of Msgr. Varga’s soul. The principal celebrant will be Msgr. Thomas Powers, vicar general; the homilist will be Father Skip Karcsinski.

Bishop Caggiano will celebrate the Funeral Mass on Friday, March 18 at 11 am. The homilist will be Deacon Brian Kelly. Interment will be private.

DANBURY—Deacon Daniel N. Myott, 84, of Danbury, beloved husband of Phyllis Myott, died peacefully at Bethel Healthcare on Thursday, January 27.

“It is with great sadness I must inform you of the death of Deacon Daniel Myott, “ said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano.  His joyful life of love for family, Christian witness and service is a model to celebrate. He will long be remembered and cherished by the faithful of St. Gregory the Great Parish. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon Daniel and for the consolation of his family, “ said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano in announcing Deacon Myott’s passing.

He was born in Portland, Maine on September 15, 1937, son of the late Norman and Madeline (Huston) Myott. Dan was a Veteran of the United States Air force during peacetime, where he served as Staff Sergeant for the 131st Tactical Fighter Squadron, stationed in Germany and in Northern Africa. Dan’s degree in electronics and passion for engineering led to a 37-year career at scientific instrument maker PerkinElmer, where he worked in various positions in sales and service.

During a snowy day off in an early PerkinElmer training program in the Poconos, Dan skied up to a tow bar line and met the love of his life, Phyllis Becker. Dan and Phyllis married after a whirlwind courtship, and embarked on the adventure of their lives after children Felicia, Michelle and Paul arrived in short order. Their life together spanned 57 years and was wreathed in love, laughter and faith, and culminated in the arrival of Dan’s pride and joy, his nine grandchildren—triplets Daniel, Katharine and Joseph Dixon, William, Adele and Timothy Whitlock, and MaryKate, Amanda and Christopher Myott. Dan has bequeathed to each of them his love of skiing, camping, travel, fast cars, sailing and family vacations at the ocean. But the greatest gifts he has passed along is how closely he cherished family and friends and his infectious sense of humor.

Dan was a man of deep faith and was ordained a Deacon in the Catholic Church in 1992. He served at St. Gregory the Great parish, where he and Phyllis have been devoted parishioners for over 50 years. Dan lived his vocation fully and was happiest serving others—he felt his calling was to serve the least among us, and he spent countless volunteer hours at the Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, Shelter for the Homeless, and Americares. His favorite parish ministries were administering the sacrament of baptism and ministering to the aged at Glen Hill Center. He will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by the St. Gregory the Great family, who supported Dan after he suffered a debilitating stroke in 2007.

In addition to his cherished wife of 57 years, Dan will be deeply missed by his three children, Felicia Dixon, Michelle Whitlock, and Paul Myott, his loving son-in-law Thomas Dixon, as well as by his devoted grandchildren, his brother, Stephen Myott and his wife, Linda, and Dan’s sister, Susan Downes. He will also be missed by a wonderful circle of friends, with whom he shared a truly unique bond. Finally, he will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know his warm smile and caring embrace.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Gregory the Great Church on Monday, January 31 at 11 am.  Cremation and interment in St. Peter Cemetery will take place at a later date.

The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday between the hours of 3-6 pm.

In keeping with Dan’s loving nature and desire to serve the needy, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be directed to St. Gregory the Great Church, Deacon Dan Myott Memorial, 85 Great Plain Rd. Danbury, Conn. 06811. All contributions will be used for parishioners with financial need.

Visitation

3-6 pm

Sunday, January 23, 2022

Cornell Memorial Home

247 White Street

Danbury, Connecticut, United States

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Mass of Christian Burial

11 am

Monday, January 31, 2022

St. Gregory The Great Church

85 Great Plain Road

Danbury, Connecticut, United States

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Burial

12 pm

Monday, January 31, 2022

St. Peter Cemetery

71 Lake Avenue Ext

Danbury, Connecticut, United States

203.743.9626

Father Robert J. Maty, remembered by many as the long-time pastor of the former St. John Nepomucene Parish in Bridgeport, passed away on Monday, January 17, 2022. He was 90 years of age.

He was ordained to the priesthood by the Most Reverend Lawrence J. Shehan, first Bishop of Bridgeport, at St. Mary’s Church in Bridgeport on May 25, 1957. During his many years of ministry, Father Maty served on the Priests’ Retirement Board, the Priests’ Council and as a member of the Board of Consultors.

Father Maty was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut on November 15, 1931. He was baptized at St. John the Baptist Greek Catholic Church on November 29, Bridgeport Connecticut in the Byzantine Rite. As a result, Father Maty received First Communion and Confirmation on the same day. He transferred to the Latin Rite in 1953.

Father Maty attended grammar school at Sts. Cyril and Methodius School in Bridgeport and high school at Fairfield College Preparatory School in Fairfield, Connecticut, graduating in 1949. He attended college at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield from 1949-1951. Father Maty studied philosophy at St. Bernard Seminary in Rochester, New York, continuing there for his theology studies, which were completed in 1957. He was ordained to the priesthood by the Most Reverend Lawrence J. Shehan, Bishop of Bridgeport, at St. Mary’s Church, Bridgeport on May 25, 1957.

After his ordination, Father Maty first served as assistant at St. John Nepomucene Church in Bridgeport. In 1960, he served for one year as a teacher at Notre Dame High School while continuing to reside and assist at St. John Nepomucene Church.

From 1961-1967, he taught at St. John Nepomucene Commercial High School. In 1967, he was transferred to St. Benedict Church in Stamford, serving as assistant. From 1968-1974, he served as assistant at Holy Name Church in Stratford and St. Thomas the Apostle in East Norwalk, and, for a brief time, the administrator of St. Gabriel Church in Stamford. He returned to St. John Nepomucene as Assistant in 1974 and in 1978, Bishop Walter W. Curtis appointed him pastor of that church serving in that capacity until its closing in 1991.

He next served as parochial vicar at St. Teresa Parish in Trumbull from 1991-1996. Upon his appointment as director of the Office of the Propagation of the Faith, he took up residence at Holy Rosary Church in Bridgeport. He retired from active ministry in 2001, but continued to assist at Holy Name Church in Stratford for a number of years.

Bishop Frank J. Caggiano will celebrate Father Maty’s Funeral Mass at Holy Name of Jesus Church in Stratford on Friday, January 21 at 10 am. There will be no viewing. Interment will be at St. Michael Cemetery in Stratford.