How can we put our faith into action?

People of all beliefs are often moved to put their values into action when they become aware of the inequities faced by their neighbors—locally, statewide, and across the country.

One way we at St. Anthony’s have chosen to act is by joining CONECT:  Congregations Organized for a NEw CT.

What is CONECT?

Founded in 2011, CONECT is a collective of 36-plus churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and civic organizations from Fairfield and New Haven counties that have joined together to take on social, racial, and economic issues of common concern. CONECT identifies and researches some of the most critical issues, then brings them to local and state leaders with the goal of introducing actionable legislative solutions to mitigate injustices facing our most vulnerable state residents. CONECT’s members are collaborative, non-partisan, and racially diverse, all guided by the desire to enhance the common good.

In accordance with Pope Francis’ exhortations, and after a parish-wide series of synodal (“working together”) conversations, many St. Anthony’s parishioners expressed strong interest in exploring different avenues through which they can act on their faith. In that spirit, we invited CONECT leaders to the parish on two occasions to explain who they are and how they worked. Inspired by what we learned and with the blessing of our Parish Life Coordinator, Dr. Eleanor Sauers, we joined CONECT in May 2025.

How does St. Anthony’s CONECT chapter operate?

Our chapter is made up of Core Team members (see below) who have completed a series of organizational training sessions, as well as an Advisory Board and many volunteers who have expressed an interest in helping out when called upon. Members can decide do as much as they are able. There are no fees and no commitments—simply a desire to help.

We use one-on-one conversations and also gather as a group with interested parishioners, to discuss and choose those issues that they feel are most crucial. Then the CONECT board and research team members gather to discuss which specific actions we can take. For example, they might involve making phone calls or sending emails to legislators;  joining a rally in Hartford; serving on a research team; spreading the word to friends and neighbors, and more.

What issues is CONECT currently working on?

Please click on this link to read about some of the current issues that CONECT is tackling.

We warmly welcome new members at anytime throughout the year.

Contact the Parish Office or one of the Core Team members for more information,
and check the weekly bulletin for notices of upcoming meetings.