NORWALK, Conn. — In a solemn ceremony held at Notre Dame Health & Rehabilitation Center in Norwalk on Saturday, September 7th 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 eighteen years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.
“It is nice to take time to honor those we lost on that day and keep their memory alive” said George Ribellino, Faithful Navigator of Assembly 100. “This is the fifth 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.”
In past years the procession and Mass was held outside in the courtyard area, but due to the rainy weather on Friday, September 6th, the grassy area was to wet for the patients’ wheelchairs so the Mass was held inside Notre Dame in the large dining and recreation area. The Knights of Columbus Honor Guard formed a procession along with members of the Catholic Daughters from St. Matthew Norwalk.
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. Norman, in his homily about the 9-11 Anniversary said, “Remember those who sacrificed for us not just today, but every day.” There was also a moment of silence to remember those lost on 9-11-01.
The Mass was coordinated by Notre Dame’s Sister Lucie Monast, SSTV, with assistance from KofC Assembly 100 (4th Degree). “It was truly a special and memorable morning for all”, said Monast
Following the Mass, a special lunch was held for the residents, families and Knights of Columbus.
The following day 4 members of the Bishop Fenwick Assembly Color Corps took part in the Diocese of Bridgeport Annual Blue Mass which commemorates the 9/11 terrorist attacks by honoring the bravery and service of first responders in Fairfield County. “We are honored to be in procession every year with the first responders who keep us safe each and every day. God Bless them for their sacrifice,” Ribellino said.
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.
