Archdiocese of Hartford Replies to Petitions

Pictured: Rev. Eugene Kotlinski, C.M. at this year’s Blessing of the Easter Food at St. Hedwig Church

Photo by Nancy Sasso Janis

The parishioners at St. Hedwig and St. Mary Roman Catholic Churches in Naugatuck have had a large turnover in recent years with the priests assigned to lead both of the linked parishes. Approximately three years ago after many priests had come and gone, the churches were sent Rev. Eugene Kotlinski, C.M. and Father Luke Sorys, C.M., with the commitment that they would stay for three years.

Father Sorys was reassigned at least a year ago, and Father Eugene was left alone to serve as pastor for both churches. Members of the church were recently informed that Father Eugene has now been reassigned and will be leaving the parish this spring.

Parishioners decided to collect signatures for a petition to be sent to the office of the Archbishop requesting that the churches be sent a priest who will be allowed to stay for an extended period of time. An excerpt of the reply that both St. Mary and St. Hedwig received was printed in the church bulletins this weekend and is reprinted below.

Dear Parishioners,
We have received a reply from Monsignor Gerard G. Schmitz of Archbishop Blair’s office. Below is an excerpt to let you all know how we stand. St. Hedwig and St. Mary received similar replies:

“Archbishop Blair is aware of the many priests who have been assigned to Saint Mary (and St. Hedwig) parish in the past decade. This factor will be considered as we seek to find a Pastor for your parish. We ask your understanding as we prepare to assign a priest to Saint Mary and Saint Hedwig along with nine other parishes that will need new pastors this spring.”