From the Pastor’s Desk
Dear Parishioners,
I take this opportunity to wish all of you a happy and blessed Feast Day of St. Martin de Porres. In 2007, the Diocese of Brooklyn canonically merged the parishes of Holy Rosary, St. Peter Claver and Our Lady of Victory to become the newly formed parish of St. Martin de Porres. We are truly blessed as a parish community over these 15 years to continue the mission of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and serving the people of God here in Bedford Stuyvesant. St. Martin de Porres was praised for his unconditional care of all people, regardless of race or wealth. He took care of everyone from the Spanish nobles to the African slaves. Martin didn’t care if the person was diseased or dirty, he would welcome them into his own home. Martin’s life reflected his great love for God and all of God’s gifts. It is said he had many extraordinary abilities, including aerial flights, bilocation, instant cures, miraculous knowledge, spiritual knowledge and an excellent relationship with animals. Martin also founded an orphanage for abandoned children and slaves and is known for raising dowry for young girls in short amounts of time. Let us pray that through the intercession of St. Martin de Porres all of us will continue to grow in the image and likeness of Christ.
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 $47,522. 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.
Lector Workbooks
As we begin a new liturgical year in a few weeks, the cycle of scripture readings proclaimed at Mass changes. All lectors from each of our three churches are asked to pick up their new lector workbooks this week. They will be in the sacristy of the three churches. You are asked to sign for your new workbook.
Remembering the Faithful Departed
During the month of November, we remember in a special way those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. The names of those who have died are placed on each of the altars of our three churches throughout the month. If you wish to have a friend or loved one remembered, please fill out the special All Souls envelope located at the doors of each of the churches. You may fill out the envelope and place the offering in the collection basket or bring it to the parish office.
National Black Catholic History Month
November is National Black Catholic History Month. There will be a special Mass celebrated at St. Thomas Aquinas parish in Flatlands Brooklyn highlighting the 6 soon to be Black saints of the Catholic Church. The Mass will take place on Saturday, November 19 beginning at 12:00 Noon. This Mass is sponsored by the Diocese of Brooklyn and the Archdiocese of New York.
Wishing you a joyful and peaceful week,
Father Alonzo Q. Cox