NORWALK, Conn. — In a solemn outdoor ceremony held on Saturday, Sept. 9 on the beautiful grounds of Notre Dame Health & Rehabilitation Center in Norwalk, members of Knights of Columbus Bishop Fenwick Fourth Degree Assembly were joined by their families as well as residents and staff of Notre Dame at a special Mass in remembrance of those who lost their lives sixteen years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.
“It is nice to take time to honor those we lost on that day,” said George Ribellino, Faithful Navigator of Assembly 100. “This is the fourth year of having the Memorial Mass and picnic with the residents of Notre Dame and we are so appreciative of the hospitality of Sister Lucie, Sister Frances and the staff of Notre Dame.”
On a cloudy morning, residents and patients Notre Dame, along with staff, volunteers, and a Knights Color Guard formed a procession across the Notre Dame grounds to the flag pole where everyone in attendance recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the procession continued to the courtyard for the Mass.
Father Reggie Norman, Pastor of Our Lady of Fatima parish in Wilton and Chaplain of Knights of Columbus Assembly 100, was the celebrant of the Mass along with Father Paul Sankar, Father Daivd Blanchfield, Father Gustavo Falla and Father Stephen Balint who is a resident of ND. Norman, in his homily about the 9-11 Anniversary said, “9/11 is a day to remember: Remember who we are and what we are about. It was not a time of selfishness but a time of togetherness. Let us return to the time where we work and pray for each other.
The Mass was coordinated by Notre Dame’s Sister Lucie Monast, SSTV, with assistance from KofC Assembly 100 (4th Degree). In addition, Father Reggie thanked the Sisters of St. Thomas of Villanova for their 70 years of service in the United States.
Following the Mass, a special picnic was held for the residents, families and Knights of Columbus.
“It was truly a special and memorable morning for all”, said Monast
Notre Dame Health and Rehabilitation Center is a 60-bed residence, including six private rooms, and located on five landscaped acres in Norwalk. It is operated under the loving sponsorship of The Sisters of Saint Thomas of Villanova. Their goal is to optimize the quality of life for the chronically ill and convalescent elderly.
