From The Pastors Desk
Dear Parishioners
I must be honest with all of you, as much as I love the summer, the brutal heat these last few days have been treacherous! Many of you know that I am a huge fan of the beach, but not in hazy, hot and humid weather. Please be sure to hydrate with water, and if you don’t need to spend a lot of time outdoors, rest and enjoy your home air-conditioning. Our scripture readings speak to us of sowing seeds of growth. Today’s gospel reminds us that we must sow seeds that will produce a harvest that is bountiful and full. That harvest is the Church, particularly the Church here in Bedford-Stuyvesant. How blessed we are to be sowing the seeds of evangelization, encouraging a relationship with the Lord Jesus. We are reminded in today’s second reading from St. Paul that the fruits of the Spirit continue to make its dwelling among us. As we continue to bask in the beauty of God’s creation during these summer months, let us pray for an increase in charity, allowing Christ to use us as his instruments in sowing the seeds of faith here at St. Martin de Porres.
Kujenga Retreat
The Kujenga youth leadership retreat will take place August 4 to August 6 at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington, NY. Started by the late Father Martin Carter, the Kujenga retreat seeks to help educate the youth of our local community in the ways they can better serve their parishes, be a positive influence in their local neighborhoods and be proud of their history. Flyers for the Kujenga retreat can be found at the doors of each of the three churches.
Parish Bake Sale
Our parish Annual Catholic Appeal team will be holding a bake sale today, July 16 after all the masses. Please be sure to stop by to purchase a delicious piece of cake or pastry to help support our parish Annual Catholic Appeal goal. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
Wishing you a blessed and peaceful week,
Father Alonzo Q. Cox
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