Dear Parishioners,

One of the greatest gifts that God has given to us is faith. Our faith allows us to come to church on this Sunday morning to give honor, glory, praise and majesty to Christ the Lord. Our faith gives us the courage to go out and proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. There is so much in this world that wants to combat and crush our faith. We must safeguard our faith using the armor of Jesus Christ. In today’s gospel, we see Jesus tell the Canaanite woman who persists in calling out to him, “great is your faith”. We must be as persistent as this woman in calling out to Jesus. He hears and knows our voices better than anyone else in this world. Let us continue to be people of faith, never allowing anything to hinder or diminish it.

St. Martin de Porres Parish School of Faith Formation

It is already the middle of August, which means it’s almost back to school time! But, as we are still in the midst of this pandemic, we don’t know what “back to school” looks like. As I write this letter, the Governor of the State of New York along with the Mayor, have given the green light for students to return back to school next month. There is still much discussion and planning on both parts to logistically see what that looks like. Here at St. Martin de Porres, our Sunday school of Faith Formation is in the same predicament. It would usually be at around this time of the year that we would begin registration for the upcoming 2020-2021 academic year. Officials from the Diocese of Brooklyn will inform Pastors of what the plan for Faith Formation will be over the next few days. Both Michelle Joseph, our Director of Faith Formation and I will be in communication with parents who wish to register their child for Faith Formation classes, most especially for those students who need to receive the sacraments of initiation. Most probably classes will be conducted remotely, but until we hear that officially, we will then confirm those plans. If you should have questions, please feel free to reach out to either myself or Michelle Joseph.

 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.

Death of Ms. Ethel Carter

Just this past week, we learned of the death of longtime Our Lady of Victory parishioner, Ms. Ethel Carter. Just until a year ago, Ms. Carter was an active Sunday Mass goer at OLV. She served as an usher, rosary society member and one of the founders of the Victory Arts Project. As I write this letter, her funeral arrangements are still being made. Please pray for the repose of her soul and the consolation of her friends and family.

Wishing you a blessed and peaceful week,

Father Alonzo Q. Cox