Our parish has begun the 2023 Annual Catholic Appeal, a diocesan fundraising campaign that supports the Church’s mission in Brooklyn and Queens. It is an opportunity for each of us to unite in faith to respond to the needs of those most vulnerable – the hungry, the homeless, the unemployed, the distressed, the unchurched, our children and our elderly through crucial and essential ministries and services. We are grateful to those who have sent in their donation, and we invite every member of our parish to consider joining us. Commitment forms will soon be available for you. Be assured that no donation is ever too small to make a big difference before God.
Next Sunday, March 18, the second collection after Holy Communion will be for the support of Catholic Relief Services, an agency of the U.S. Bishops Conference that assists the poor and the vulnerable overseas, especially those suffering from wars or natural disasters. Please note that the envelope you received is not dated, and it should be brought in next weekend.
Friday, March 17, is the Memorial of St. Patrick, the missionary saint who brought the faith to Ireland, and which so many Irish immigrants brought to our land. Bishop Robert Brennan has granted a dispensation from the obligation to abstain from meat that day to those who wish to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in our diocese. Those who plan to enjoy this dispensation are nonetheless asked to substitute abstinence with another penitential act or work of charity.
Next Saturday, March 18, all parishioners are invited to attend a special Lenten Retreat led by Father John Cush, Retreat Master and Guest Speaker from St. Joseph’s Seminary in Yonkers, NY. The Retreat will feature two separate tracks for adults and youth. The theme for the adult retreat is: “The Quest for the Historical Jesus and Where to Find Him: In Sacred Scripture!”. The theme for the youth retreat is: “Finding Joy in Christ’s Passion”. Please refer to the parish bulletin for a complete agenda of the Retreat Day. Complimentary Breakfast and Lunch will be served for participants of each respective track.
Next Sunday, March 19, the Italian Community of our parish will celebrate a Solemn Mass at 9AM in the chapel to mark the Feast of St. Joseph. Everyone is invited to join them on this special occasion to honor St. Joseph, the Husband of Mary. There will be blessing and distribution of St. Joseph’s Bread after the Mass to all participants.
For detailed information on these events and other parish information, please take home a copy of our weekly bulletin or read here on our website.