Over 130 parishioners attended the Saturday vigil mass at Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church in Sherman to celebrate the beginning of the 3rd Week of Advent, which is the midway point of the Advent season in preparation for Christmas and the coming of Christ.

Reverend Richard J. Gemza and the Congregation welcomed The Most Reverend Bishop Frank J. Caggiano with heartfelt warmth. His uplifting homily was about the significance of Gaudete Sunday, which comes from the Latin word meaning, “rejoice.” He stressed how the attainment of happiness on earth isn’t possible all the time and it does not last. However, “joy of the Holy Spirit, heart and mind” lasts in eternity with God.

The Bishop’s visit to Holy Trinity was one of several stops throughout the Fairfield County region. He last visited the church on June 30, 2014 when he appointed Father Gemza as Pastor.

Bishop Caggiano is the Bishop of the Diocese of Bridgeport, who was appointed by Pope Francis on July 31, 2013, and installed as the Fifth Bishop of Bridgeport on September 19, 2013.

Article and photos are by Alicia Sakal.