From the Pastor’s Desk
Dear Parishioners,
Throughout the month of October, the Church in a very special way, honors our Blessed Mother under the title, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. As Catholics, we have a beautiful devotion to our Blessed Mother Mary with the rosary. We know that Mary always leads us to her Son, Jesus. Many of our Protestant brothers and sisters think that we look to Mary as God. That is far from the case, nor is it what our Blessed Mother wanted. Mary wanted all of us to follow her Son, Jesus, to be his witnesses on earth and to ultimately, do whatever he tells us. During this month of October, I invite all of us to pray the rosary at least one day a week. We pray that the mysteries of the rosary will continue to lead us to the savior of the world, that is Jesus of Nazareth. Each of our three readings today speak to us about the gift of faith. The apostles say to the Lord, “increase our faith.” Jesus gives them the beautiful image of having faith the size of a mustard seed, that will grow to be the largest of trees. Our faith must continue to play an important part of our lives. Our faith allows us to proclaim that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. May our faith grow to be the largest of trees.
Annual Catholic Appeal
I once again want to thank all of you who have made a pledge to this year’s Annual Catholic Appeal. As you know, monies that are raised through the appeal go to help support the work of the Diocese of Brooklyn, such as Catholic Charities, Catholic Migration Services and Vocations to the Priesthood. Or goal here at St. Martin de Porres is $63,586. We have pledged to date $42,522. The key to having a successful campaign is 100% participation. If you have not yet made a pledge, please consider doing so. Thank you all for you your generosity.
School of Faith Formation Registration
New registration and re-registration forms are now available for the upcoming academic year for our parish school of Faith Formation (Sunday school). Students preparing to receive First Holy Communion and Confirmation must be registered in our parish school of Faith Formation. Registration forms are available online via our parish website. The registration fee is $55. Classes have begun.
First Friday Devotions
This Friday, October 7th is the first Friday of the month. First Friday devotions will take place following the 8:00AM Mass at Our Lady of Victory Church with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, the recitation of the rosary for life and Benediction. There will also be a first Friday Mass at St. Peter Claver Church at 12:00Noon. All are welcomed to join us for prayer.
Memorial of the Most Holy Rosary
Next Sunday, October 9th, we will celebrate the memorial of the Holy Rosary at Holy Rosary Church which will take place at the 9:00AM Mass. Immediately following the Mass there will be a small reception in the lower hall. All are welcomed.
Wishing you a joyful and blessed week,
Father Alonzo Q. Cox