By Kelly Weldon | October 19, 2026
Did you get a chance to read Theo of Golden yet? It is a beautiful story that will restore your faith in humankind. And if you have read it, perhaps you closed the book wondering how you might be a little more like Theo.
The main character, Theo, is an octogenarian who arrives in the town of Golden and visits a coffee shop where an artist’s portraits of townspeople cover the walls. Inspired, he begins buying the portraits, one by one, and gifting each to the person pictured. He sends handwritten letters and arranges to meet each person at a fountain in town. With each meeting comes a story of strength, hardship and hope. It is a beautiful book about relationships, connections, generosity, faith and legacy.
As I work closely with nine St. Francis Xavier (SFX) Missionary Parishes here in the Diocese of Bridgeport, I often think about the parish portraits waiting to be discovered right here. Located in our urban communities, these sister parishes bring together people of many cultures, languages and backgrounds, each enriching the life of our Church.
Each parish portrait would be captivating: a story of vibrant faith, rich traditions and deep community connections, alongside challenges and hardships. Their pastors and parishioners are true disciples, living missionary lives. Their faith is inspiring, and their stories deserve to be shared.
I am no artist who could sketch these parish portraits, but I would love to meet you at one of Theo’s favorite spots, a coffee shop…. or your parish and bring their stories to life. Like Theo, you might feel called to lean in, make a connection and help meet a need. Perhaps there is a parish story that will speak to your heart – and an opportunity to be a Theo or Thea.
Theo reminds us of the joy that comes from taking an interest in someone else’s story and discovering that we have something in common. Through quiet generosity and personal connection, we can bring hope to others and find deeper meaning in our own lives. What a beautiful way to inspire, to live and to be remembered!
If you feel called to be a “Theo” or “Thea,” a simple conversation over coffee could be the beginning of something beautiful.
Your own Theo story could begin right here. Please reach out to me, Kelly Weldon, at kelly.weldon@foundationsinfaith.org or (203) 416-1392. You can learn more about our work at www.SFXFund.org.
“His every kindness was a signpost, meant no doubt for the present but pointing to the up ahead, aiming at the still to come.”
– Allen Levi, Theo of Golden
