West Hartford Resident to Receive Saint Joseph Medal of Honor

Release submitted by the Archdiocese of Hartford

Archbishop Henry J. Mansell will recognize 208 distinguished parishioners from across the Archdiocese of Hartford with the Saint Joseph Medal of Appreciation during a ceremony at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph on Sunday, April 14, at 3 p.m.  

Every year since 2002, pastors from across the Archdiocese nominate a person or couple from their parish, who has shared their time and talents with their church community, to be medal recipients.  

Receiving one of the medals is Nancy Ryan of St. Brigid Parish in West Hartford.

Ryan, who is a nurse, has been an advocate for the poor in her parish for over a decade. According to her pastor, Fr. James Leary, she helped to initiate Medical Aid to Haiti (MATH), a non-profit organization which helps Haitians with their medical needs. She makes an annual trip to Haiti to personally care for the sick.   “She is a fine example of the healing ministry of Jesus present in Haiti and MATH gives a powerful Christian witness there,” said Leary.  

At 94, there is nothing that Dorothy Beaucar won’t do to help at her parish. Over the decade, she has contributed her time and skills to Saint Joseph Parish in Bristol in a variety of ways. She has been active in the Ladies Guild, parish Historical Society, parish school alumni Association and helped with the parish’s religious education programs. In addition, she is an active member of the sewing group and makes Baptismal robes and diapers for children. She is known for her baked goods, which she donates for fundraising events.   “Dot is a woman of many great qualities and talents, but among her greatest are her faith, devotion and joyful personality,” said her pastor, Fr. Joseph DiSciacca, “Her presence, smile and goodness make us better followers of Jesus, the Lord.”  

At Saint John Vianney in West Haven, Sandy Kleemola is the driving force behind the annual parish carnival. She sets the menu, picks up supplies, spends weeks preparing food, and cleans the kitchen and booths. She is the head of the Hospitality Committee and creates a warm and welcoming environment for people to gather in a social setting after liturgy.   “She puts into practice the command to love God and to love thy neighbor. She works hard and beautifully. She is accomplished and competent in all she does,” said Fr. Joseph Cronin.  

Joseph Langer of Manchester has been a member of Saint Bartholomew for 39 years. He volunteers his time by landscaping the church grounds. According to his pastor, Fr. Stephen Sledesky, Langer’s work began with the beautification around the outdoor statue of the Virgin Mary. His wife, Gloria, used to do it before she passed away, and after her death, Langer was inspired to take over. Years later, his landscaping talents have expanded to other parts of the church’s property.   “His love and care for his parish and his dedicated service inspire others to give of themselves,” said Sledesky.    
 
“The medal recipients share their gifts of expertise, time, and commitment to their churches without expecting anything in return. They give of themselves out of kindness, and their desire to spread the grace of God,” said Archbishop Mansell. “They are a blessing.”