"On behalf of our community and parish, we extend our gratitude to each of you who remembered us in prayer following the events of Dec. 14, 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary School," Msgr. Weiss wrote. "We quickly realized the universality of the church by the outpouring of support and concern that was shown to us by so many in our faith communities."

Msgr. Weiss said that the parish received cards and letters from Catholic schools, religious education program, parishes and Catholic organizations across the country. The list, he wrote, "is an overwhelming one."

"We are also very appreciative of the number of donations sent to us to assist our parish in our continuing ministry to the community, to help pay the expenses of the victims' funerals, to support counseling programs, to provide direct aid to the families and so on. Your generosity reminded us that we are not alone during this very sad and challenging time."

He also thanked the many priests, deacons and religious sisters and brothers "for their letters of support and encouragement."

"Spiritual bouquets, Mass cards, hours of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament and remembrances by many prayer groups have lifted our spirits knowing that our intentions are ever before the Lord," he wrote.

"While we tried to acknowledge every letter and gift sent to us, it became an overwhelming task, so please accept this letter as a thank you to every person who remembered us in prayer during the days immediately following the tragedy to these days of recovery and healing," he wrote.

"We know that the road ahead of us will be a long one, but we are given great hope by the outpouring of generosity and love shown to us. We are truly blessed by your many acts of faith and kindness. Please know that you continue to be in our prayers of gratitude for the goodness you have demonstrated to us in so many ways."