DANBURY — The Association of Religious Communities (ARC) has announced it will be honoring Monsignor Robert Weiss, the pastor of St Rose of Lima Church, during this year’s Keep The Faith Celebration.

“ARC wants to celebrate this pastor because he has been ‘keeping the faith’ under horrific conditions,” said the Reverend Phyllis J. (P.J.) Leopold, executive director of ARC. “He went quickly to the scene on December 14 and also buried eight of the children killed at Sandy Hook Elementary. Monsignor Weiss is known for having a good sense of humor, but can you imagine how much grief he too must be carrying.

“There is an age old question: ‘Who ministers to the minister?’ Our Keep the Faith Celebration is part of the answer to that question,” she continued. “We want to give Monsignor Weiss and all who care about Newtown a bright spot in the journey, a fun night to look forward to, and [something] to smile about the next day!”

The celebration will take place on Thursday, May 16, from 5 to 7 pm, at Tarrywile Mansion, 70 Southern Boulevard in Danbury.

Tickets are $30, and may be purchased online at www.ARCforPeace.org.

Proceeds will benefit Interfaith Peace Camp, ARC’s summer program for children.

“Only good comes out of supporting one another through this long tunnel,” said Rev Leopold, “so ARC is very pleased to honor Monsignor Weiss. It’s going to be an upbeat event and all are invited to join us.”