From the Pastor’s Desk
Dear Parishioners,
We are quickly moving through the great Easter season. As you know, during this season our first scripture reading at Mass will come from the Acts of the Apostles. The Apostles were the first witnesses of Jesus after his resurrection. They depict the stories of how they were sent out to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. We hear how they converted thousands of people to Christianity. Our first reading at Mass today gives us the moment when Paul is welcomed to the fold as a disciple. His life was radically changed by his own conversion. We see how the Holy Spirit is at work in bringing people closer to the heart of Christ the Lord. As we prepare to celebrate the Solemnity of Pentecost in a few weeks, let us pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to transform our lives to become stronger and faithful witnesses of Christ.
Mother’s Day Remembrance
During the month of May, we will remember all mothers living and deceased. You are invited to use the Mother’s Day envelopes located at the doors of the church. You may place the offering in the collection basket or bring it to the parish office. The names of all the mothers will be placed on the altars of each of the three churches for the entire month of May. As we celebrate Mother’s Day next week, we will bestow a special blessing for all mothers, step-mothers, godmothers, grandmothers and mothers-to-be at all of the Masses next weekend.
First Friday Devotions
This Friday, May 7 is the first Friday of the month. First Friday devotions will take place after the 8:00AM Mass at Our Lady of Victory Church concluding with Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Mass will be celebrated at 12:00Noon at St. Peter Claver on Friday. All are welcomed to pray with us.
St. Peter Claver Church Raffle Fundraiser
I would like to take this opportunity to thank those of you who have purchased a raffle ticket for the St. Peter Claver 100th anniversary fundraiser. It has been a great success so far! There is still plenty of time to purchase a raffle to win one of the five amazing prizes. Tickets are $10 each and they can be purchased after all of the masses from any anniversary committee member or by coming to the parish office during business hours.
2021 Diocese of Brooklyn Annual Catholic Appeal
I wish to thank all of you who have already contributed to this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal. Our goal here at St. Martin de Porres is $63,586. We have pledged thus far $15,930. The key to having a successful ACA is participation. We are asking everyone to participate in this year’s ACA that we will be able to achieve our goal. Any monies collected beyond the goal comes directly back to the parish. I thank each of you for your financial support here at St. Martin de Porres.
Wishing all of you a peaceful and blessed week,
Father Alonzo Q. Cox