From the Pastor’s Desk
Dear Parishioners,
What a beautiful celebration we had last week! Words cannot begin to express how tremendously blessed I am to be the Pastor of such a vibrant and amazing community here in Bedford Stuyvesant. I take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support and hard work in making last Sunday’s feast day Mass so beautiful. It’s hard to believe that the month of November is flying right by! Next Thursday is Thanksgiving Day! We are also quickly approaching the end of this liturgical year. Next Sunday is the Solemnity of Christ the King, which is the last Sunday of the liturgical year as we prepare for the season of Advent. Our scripture readings for Mass this weekend prepares us for the second coming of Christ. Jesus tells us in today’s gospel that we must be prepared and ready to welcome him. We know neither the day nor the hour, but Jesus is coming soon to lead us to the Kingdom. St. Paul boldly tells us that we must act in accordance with what Christ has called us to and to mind our own business. These are strong yet powerful words from St. Paul, who challenges us to allow the light of Christ to radiate through us to others.
Thanksgiving Basket Distribution
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, we as a parish community will continue the custom of distributing Thanksgiving food baskets to families in need. If you know of a family who would need a basket this year, please see the sign-up sheets at the doors of each of our three churches. You may also call the parish office to give the names of families who might be in need this Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Day Mass
Next Thursday, November 24 is Thanksgiving Day. Mass will be celebrated at 8:00AM in the Main Church of Our Lady of Victory. You are invited to bring a dish that you be serving at your Thanksgiving table to be blessed at that Mass.
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.
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 this 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 blessed and joyful week,
Father Alonzo Q. Cox