Dear Parishioners,

As we continue to journey with our Lord during these days of summer, our gospel passage speaks to us about the importance of faith. As disciples of the Lord, we are called to be people of faith, knowing that Christ will never abandon us. The gospel for today’s Mass is one of my favorite. We see this beautiful image of Jesus walking on water. The disciples had a very human reaction to seeing someone literally walking on water, that of fear. They were so terrified that they could not recognize that it was actually Jesus, but they thought it was a ghost! It was the next words of Jesus that put them all at peace. The Lord said to them, “take courage, it is I, do not be afraid.” Jesus is with us always, even in the midst of our fears, worries and anxieties. We must always have faith, knowing that the Lord will never abandon us. Our second reading for Mass today reminds us that we must speak the truth in Christ. Our lives must always be conformed to Christ the Head. As the Lord continues to reveal himself to us, let us pray that we will continue to be people of faith, hope and love.

Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

This Saturday, August 15, 2020 is the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven. As Catholics, we believe that Mary did not die but was taken up to Heaven, body and soul. The Eastern Church calls it the Dormition of Mary. This year the celebration of the Assumption is not a Holy Day of Obligation. We will though celebrate Mass for the Assumption this Saturday August 15 at 8:00AM in Our Lady of Victory Church. The 5:00PM Vigil Mass for Sunday held at St. Peter Claver Church will still be celebrated.

Parish Financial Support & 2020 Annual Catholic Appeal

As your Pastor, I take this opportunity to thank each of you for your continued financial support here at St. Martin de Porres. We have had great success with our online electronic giving application called Give Central. As we make our way back to church, both aspects of financial contribution will be available for you to use. I also thank all of you who have contributed to this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal. As you know, funds from the ACA go to help the various programs and outreach that the Diocese of Brooklyn provides. Our parish goal for the ACA is $65,024. We have pledged so far, $15,554. I am very much aware of the current financial times we are living in and I am extremely thankful and grateful for all that you do for this parish community. May the Lord continue to bless each one of you.

100th Anniversary of St. Peter Claver Church

This year we will begin the 100th anniversary celebration of the establishment of St. Peter Claver Church. The Opening Mass will take place on Sunday, September 20 at 11:30AM. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no reception following the Mass. The Anniversary committee has a number of events planned for the year. More information will be sent out to all of you.

Wishing all of you a peaceful and blessed week,

Father Alonzo Q. Cox