Our Mission
We cover news and events that take place in the Archdiocese of New York’s Staten Island Region.
Gaudete Sunday
December 15, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photograph by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Fr Patrick Anthony, Pastoral Associate at Sacred Heart Church, lights the third candle of Advent, the rose candle for Gaudete Sunday. He is assisted by lector Teresa Zulch. It is a sign of rejoicing after the two previous weeks of Advent, to celebrate one more week until Christmas.
Procession on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Port Richmond Avenue
Staten Island,NY
‘Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
St Roch-St Adalbert Church held a procession on Port Richmond Avenue to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Thursday, December 12, 2024 in Staten Island. During a 24 hour period, several other Catholic Churches on the North Shore of Staten Island, home to a very large Hispanic population, held Masses, processions and a Torch Run. They included Our Lady of Good Counsel, Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption, Sacred Heart, and St Roch-St Adalbert.
Our Lady of Guadalupe is a national symbol of Mexico, and is also the patron saint of Mexico, Guatamala, El Salvador, and parts of California.
Annual Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 07, 2024
Church of the Sacred Heart
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The community of Sacred Heart Church gathered on Saturday, December 07, 2024 following the 5 PM Mass for a tree lighting ceremony. The band played music, carols were sung, and Fr Rhey Garcia, Pastor lite the parish’s trees on the lawn in front of the rectory. Hospitality provided refreshments.
First Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 01, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Advent Wreath was lit at the beginning of the 7 AM Mass on December 01, 2024, the First Sunday of Advent. The four candles represent the four weeks until Christmas. Each Sunday another candle will be lit until all four are aglow,
The parish’s Giving Tree was decorated with gift tags representing items needed for donation to various organizations that will give them to persons in need this Christmas.
Eucharistic Procession
Sunday, November 24, 2024
Church of the Sacred Heart
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The “Solemnity of Christ the King” was celebrated with a Eucharist Procession on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island. The procession was led by Fr Rhey Garcia, the pastor, and Deacon Jim Cowan. Parishioners and students of the parish school followed.
Feast of St Francis of Assisi
October 04, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island,NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
October 04 is the feast of St Francis pf Assisi.
He is the patron saint of animals. Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island held a ceremony today on his feast to bless the pets of parishioners.
Italian Mass
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Church of Our Lady of Mt Carmel in Staten Island, a most predominately Spanish parish, held a special Mass in Italian on Saturday morning. The celebrant was Fr Luis Aberto Rios Rocha.
Sacred Heart Church Remembers 9/11
Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Members of the Sacred Heart Church community processed and gathered this morning following the 9:30 am Mass at the parish’s 9/11 memorial. Prayers were said and flowers placed in front of the Celtic Cross Monument that remembers the numerous members of the church who perished on 9/11/2001.
22nd Eve of Remembrance
University of Notre Dame Club of Staten Island
Our Lady of Pity Church
Staten Island, New York
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The University of Notre Dame Club held it’s 22nd Annual Eve of Remembrance in honor of the victims from Staten Island who perished on 9/11 and others who have since died of 9/11 related diseases.
The Malloy Group performed sacred music before the procession.
The evening began with a procession of clergy, military and Holy Name Societies, as well as a color guard from the Knights of Columbus.
Bagpipers welcomed the procession with a rendition of “Coming Home”.
The concelebrated Mass was led by principal celebrant and homilist Most Reverend Peter Byrne, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of New York.
Communion gifts were brought to the altar by FDNY and military members.
The names of the deceased were read by club members and students from Island Catholic Schools.
Honoring Fr Vincent Capadanno
Sunday, September 01, 2024
Fr Vincent Capadanno Chapel
Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
A Mass and wreath laying ceremony was held in honor of Father Vincent Capadanno to honor 57 years since he died in the line of duty while ministering to wounded troops in Vietnam. Fr Capadanno was a member of the Maryknoll Order. The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Peter Byrne, episcopal vicar of Staten Island. Assisting him were Fr Edward Shellito and Fr Joseph Lamar, also members of Maryknoll.
The wreaths placed in front of the statue of Fr Capadanno at the chapel were placed by several veteran organizations from Staten Island.
St Paul’s Wayside Shrine
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
St Paul’s Wayside Shrine
Victory Boulevard
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Society of St Paul Priests and Brothers manage and operate a book store in Staten Island. It is part of their mission is evangelization through communication. On the property is an outdoor shrine that includes a chapel and stations of the cross.
Blessing of Troop 74
Sunday, July 28, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Members of Boy Scout Troop 74, from Sacred Heart Church, attended the 7 am Mass just before they departed for their annual week at camp. Following the Mass, Fr Rhey Garcia, Pastor, blessed the scouts and their leaders.
Mass For 1st Responders
Sunday, April 21, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island,NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
A Mass was said for first responders by Fr Rhey Garcia at Sacred Heart Church st the 11 am Mass. Responders who attended included members and retirees representing the FDNY, NYPD, Sanitation, CERT, Medical professionals, etc. The church was filled to near capacity. The ROTC Color Guard from Susan Wagner HS began the opening procession. Greetings before the Mass came from students of the parish school, and St Joseph Hill Academy High School. Refreshments were served following the Mass. A bagpiper closed the event.
Cardinal’s Annual Stewardship Campaign
Saturday, April 20, 2024
St Ann Parish
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Cardinal Timothy Dolan traveled to St Ann Parish in the Dongan Hills area of Staten Island on April 20, 2024 for an evening Mass and reception. The occasion was to thank donors to his annual campaign that supports various programs that the Archdiocese of New York operates.
Good Friday Procession
Friday, March 29, 2024
St Roch’s Church
Port Richmond Avenue
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The combined parish of The Church of St Adalbert’s-St Rock held their annualLiving Stations and procession with a walk through their neighborhood of Port Richmond. The stations of the cross were read by Bishop Peter Byrne and assisted by Pastor Rev Albin Roby. Parishioners dressed in costume to portray Jesus, Joseph, Mary, Veronica and centurians.
Holy Thursday
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Fr Rhey Garia, Pastor of Sacred Heart Church, washes the feet of parishioners who represent the Apostles during Holy Thursday’s Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper/Washing of the Feet.
Palm Sunday and Blessing of Statue
Sunday, March 24, 2024
Sacred Heart Church,
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
On the celebration of Palm Sunday, the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus that was vandalized several months ago, was blessed upon its restoration. A service was held following the 9 am Mass. The hands of the statue were broken off on Halloween. According to the church's information the Tunnel to Towers Foundation provided support along with Brandon Pak for the hand modeling. The team included Duanne Kempton, Patrick Smith and Richard Aricprete.
33rd Annual BOLD
Friday, March 22, 2024 and Saturday, March 23, 2024
Staten Island, NY
All photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
On Friday, March 22, 2024 the 33rd Annual Bread of Life Drive (BOLD) picked up donated food and baby items from participating schools and organizations.The group photographed here serviced the North Shore of Staten Island and was comprised of Notre Dame Club members with the United States Coast Guard personnel. Other teams worked across the rest of the Island.
BOLD concluded on Saturday morning, March 23, 2024. The items were unloaded from trucks parked overnight at at Monsignor Farrell High School, and then distributed to designated charitable organizations. Volunteers included members of the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island, members of the electrical union, and many high school football teams and students.
Sacred Heart Statue Repaired and
St Joseph and St Patrick co celebration
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Sunday, March 17, 2024
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
7 am start to the day which will see a second St Patrick's Day Parade up on my corner of Forest Avenue.
Sacred Heart Church 7 am events:
1. The hands on the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which was vandalized a few months ago, has been repaired.
2. The parish celebrated the combined feasts of St Patrick (today) and St Joseph (Tuesday) with St Joseph's statue on display and a basket of St Joseph's bread donated by Moretti Bakery.
3. The bread was distributed after the Mass along with mini soda bread loafs made (according to Fr Rhey, the pastor) by Deacon Cowen's wife Pat.
BOLD Press Conference
Thursday, March 14, 2024
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Boro President Vito Fossella and District Attorney Michael McMahon joined the University of Notre Dame Club of Staten Island today at Boro Hall. The gathering was in celebration of the club's 33rd Annual Bread of Life Drive (BOLD). The theme was "Fight Hunger, Not Each Other". The event was hosted by Joseph Delaney, and attended by members of the Staten Island schools who are participating in the food drive. Also on hand were some representatives of a few of the charities who will receive the food collected... Jewish Community Center, Catholic Charities, and Project Hospitality.
33rd Annual Bread Of Life Drive Box Drop Off
Monday, March 11, 2024
University of Notre Dame Club of Staten Island
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
This morning, the 33rd Annual Bread of Life Drive on Staten Island volunteers assembled at two locations on the Island where they picked up information boxes and unassembled boxes. They were delivered to most of the schools on the Island. The boxes will be filled with donated food and baby items, and then picked up at the end of next week. The boxes will be delivered to Monsignor Farrell High School on Saturday, March 23 and distributed to various charities in Staten Island and Brooklyn.
33rd Annual Bread of Life Drive (BOLD)
Friday, March 08, 2024
University of Notre Dame Club of Staten Island
BOLD (Bread of Life Drive)
Mission of the Immaculate Virgin at Mt Loretto
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The 33rd Annual Bread of Life Drive (BOLD) is getting ready to launch next Monday. Today, members of the club gathered at the Mission of the Immaculate Virgin (Mt Loretto) to assemble and prepare the boxes that will be distributed to schools this coming Monday. The boxes will be picked up loaded with donated food items on Friday, March 22, 2024. The food will be distributed to recipient charities on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at Monsignor Farrell HS.
Staten Island St Patrick’s Day Parade #1
Sunday, March 03, 2024
Forest Avenue
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The first of two parades was held on Sunday, March 03, 2024. The exclusion of the LGBTQ groups resulted in the lpocal BID getting a permit for a second, inclusive parade to be held in two weeks.
Today’s parade had the usual fights broken up by police, roudy teens, long lines to get into the bars, and the bagpipers of many different organizations.
Boro President Vito Fossella and Congresswoman Nicole Maliotakis did march. The democrat officials boycotted.
Ash Wednesday Services
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
“Remember you are dust and to dust you will return” was the theme of the day on Ash Wednesday as ashes were distributed during the 9:30 am Mass at Sacred Heart Church. The ashes were made from the palms collected after last year’s Palm Sunday, burned on this past Saturday, and distributed on foreheads this morning.
Burning of the Palms
Saturday, February 10, 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Last year’s palms, distributed on Palm Sunday, were returned to the church and burned following the 5 PM Mass on Saturday, February 10, 2024. The ashes will be used this coming Wednesday, February 14 on Ash Wednesday during services when a cross of ashes is placed on foreheads during services. The parish committee also followed the burning with a Mardi Gras celebration of deserts, beads and masks for the parishioners.
Fr Kevin MacDonald, S.SS.R.Former MLB Player Conducts Parish Mission 2024
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
A Parish Mission 2024 will be held this week at Sacred Heart CHurch in Staten Island. The speaker is Fr Kevin MacDonald,C.SS.R. who is a former professional baseball player, and now a Redemptorists Priest.
Fr Mac Donald spoke at each Mass on Sunday, January 28. The Mission will be conducted on Jan 28 from 4-5 pm, and Jan 29-30 from 7-8pm.
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Monday, December 11, 2023
Parish of Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
On the Eve of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Parish of Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption in Staten Island began 24 hours of festivities honoring Our Lady of Guadalupe, also known as the Virgin of Guadalupe who appeared in a series of five apparitions to a Mexican peasant named Juan Diego. On Monday evening, a Torch was carried from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal to the Church by a relay of runners. At the church, thousands of people jammed the church. Some dressed their children in traditional Mexican costumes while others carried their own statues of Our Lady of Guadalupe into the church. The Torch was carried into the church where it was placed at the foot of the altar. Some of the other activities the church was sponsoring were several Masses, Mariachi entertainment and traditional Mexican dances.
Christmas Tree Lighting
Saturday, December 09, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The parish of Sacred heart Church gathered after the 5 pm Mass on Saturday, December 09, 2023 to light the Christmas Trees on the front lawn of the rectory. Each of the trees were donated and decorated with a name tag of the family who paid $160 for the tree.
Advent Begins
Sunday, December 03, 2023
Photograph by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Advent Wreath was lit on the first Sunday of the Advent Season that will last for four weeks. Candle one was lit by parishioners at the 7 AM Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island.
Procession for the Solemnity of
Christ the King
Sunday, November 26, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The parish of Sacred Heart Church held a procession to close out the liturgical year before Advent begins next week. Altar servers led the way, followed by the Knights of Columbus Color Guard. Fr Rhey Garcia, Pastor, carried the monstrance under a canopy held by students at the parish school. Parishioners followed. The processed back to the church for a service.
Mass of Reparation
for the desecration of sacred statues
Sunday, November 19, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Bishops Peter Byrne and John O’Hara concelebrated a Mass of Reparation for the desecration of sacred statues that occurred on November 1, 2023. After the Mass, they processed with pastor Fr Rhey Garcia and parish members to pray and bless the two statues on the lawn of the rectory.
Sacred Heart Tribute
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Sacred Hearet Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The parish of Sacred Heart Church on Staten Island held a tribute to Veteran’s Day and the parishioners who served in the military. The event followed the 9 am Mass, and was highlighted by the raising of the colors by parishioner and Army veteran Ernesto Rigby. Light refreshments followed.
Veterans Day Breakfast
Wednesday, November 08, 2023
Father Vincent Capodanno Catholic Academy
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Father Vincent Capodanno Catholic Academy honored Veterans at the school’s annual Veterans Day Breakfast. Members of the many Veteran’s organizations on Staten Island were invited for a buffet breakfast, and entertained by the students who made cards and sang patriotic songs. The Principal, Mrs Deb Cretella greeted the groups, and Mr Gregory Mazloom, a US Navy veteran spoke during the event.
Attending were members of the American Legion, the Vietnam Vets, and the Marine Corps League.
Statues Vandalized
Sunday, November 05, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
For Credit: Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island discovered statues on the Church’s property were vandalized. On Wednesday, November 01, 2023, the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was vandalized. Both hands were broken off. On Thursday, November 02, 2023, another statue on the property was also found vandalized. The statue of St Francis of Assisi, located in the parish’s 9/11 memorial garden, was found with the head severed. The NYPD and the DA’s office have been notified and are investigating.
On Sunday, November 05, 2023, after the Sunday Masses, Deacon James Cowen read a statement that can be found below. Fr Rhey Garcia, Pastor, listened.
Mass of Installation
Fr Rhey P. Garcia
The Church of Sacred Heart
Castleton Avenue
Staten Island, New York
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
A Mass of Installation of Fr Rhey P Garcia as Pastor of The Church of Sacred Heart in Staten Island was celebrated on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at the church. The afternoon Mass was overflowing and standing room only. The Principal Celebrant was The Most Rev Edmund Whalen, DD, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of New York. Msgr William Belford led a contingent of concelebrating priests and deacons. Fr Rhey’s parents flew in from the Philippines for the service, and other family members traveled from the United Kingdom and Los Angeles. Many friends, clergy and parishioners attended. A reception followed in the school’s auditorium where food and deserts were served. The Choir from Moore Catholic High School performed during the evening.
Sacred Heart Holy Name Society Communion Breakfast 2023
Sunday, September 17, 2023
LiGreci’s Staaten
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Sacred Heart Church Holy Name Society (HNS) held their annual Communion Breakfast this morning at LiGreci’s Staaten Restaurant, just a short walk from the Church. The Guest Speaker was parisioner Timothy Koller, Chief Assistant District Attorney in Staten Island. The HNS presented their Community Service Award to long time parishioner Henry Murphy.
Pastor Rev Rhey Garcia delivered opening comments, and Deacon James Cowen delivered a blessing before the meal.
Notre Dame Club of Staten Island’s
21st Annual Eve of Remembrance
Friday September 08, 2023
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
The 21 Annual Eve of Remembrance sponsored by the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island was held at Our Lady of Pity Church on Staten Island. Taking part in the service were students from the Island’s Catholic High Schools, Holy Name Societies, Knights of Columbus, the USCG from Sector New York and the Small Boat Station, NYPD, FDNY and members of the Notre Dame Club.
Bishop John J O’Hara was the principal celebrant of the Mass. Fr John Wroblewski, Pastor of Our Lady of Pity-St Anthony of Padua assisted.
Father Vincent Capodanno Memorial Mass
Sunday, September 03, 2023
Fr Vincent Capodanno Chapel
Ft Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
A Memorial Mass was celebrated along with a wreath laying ceremony at the Fr Vincent Capodanno Chapel on the grounds of Ft Wadsworth, Staten Island. Tomorrow is the 56th anniversary of Fr Vincent’s death on the battlefields of Vietnam, as he was ministering to the wounded Marines in combat. Fr Vincent was a native Staten Islander who came from a large Italian family. For his bravery he was a posthumous recipient of the Medal of Honor. He was ordained a Maryknoll Missionary and served as a Navy Chaplin assigned to the Marine Corps. Fr Vincent’s cause for sainthood has been stalled in the Vatican.
At today’s Mass, the celebrant was Bishop Peter Byrne of the Archdiocese of New York. The FDNY provided a color guard, and the Knights of Columbus an honor guard. Fr Vincent’s cousin, Al Lambert sang during the service. Following the Mass, a wreath laying ceremony was held on the lawn adjacent to the chapel where a monument showing Fr Vincent is on permanent display.
He is buried with his parents at St Peter’s Cemetery in the West Brighton neighborhood of Staten Island, very close to where he grew up.
Sunday morning at the 7 am Mass: Fr Rhey Garcia, Pastor of Sacred Heart Church blessed the parish's Boy Scouts as they prepared to depart for Boy Scout Camp. He was assisted by Deacon Jim Cowan.
Sunday, July 30, 2023
Staten Island, New York
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly
Sunday, July 23, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Grandparents and the elderly were blessed and gifted with a prayer card on Sunday, July 23, 2023 as Sacred Heart Church celebrated the Third World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly 2023. Fr Rhey Garcia, Pastor and Sunday Associate Fr Patrick presided over the brief service after Masses, here at the 7 am Mass.
Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Sunday, July 16, 2023
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Feast of Our Lady of Mt Carmel was celebrated today on Sunday, July 16, 2023. The National and State Shrine in Rosebank, SI traditionally holds a procession that was cancelled because of weather. Nearby, The Church of Our Lady of Mt Carmel-StBenedicta-St Mary of the Assumption decorated their church in honor of their patron saint.
Corpus Christi Procession
Sunday, June 04, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Castleton Avenue, Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
A procession honoring the Feast of Corpus Christi was celebrated early on Sunday, June 04, 2023. Fr Rhey Garcia, Parish Administrator, led the procession carrying the monstrance under a canopy around the school and church neighborhood following the 1PM Mass. Parishioners and school children processed along the route.
104th Staten Island Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 29, 2023
The Father Vincent Capodanno Catholic Academy marched in the annual parade down Forest Avenue with a banner honoring Fr Vincent Capodanno, a Chaplin in Vietnam who lost his live while ministering to the wounded on the battlefield. For his bravery, Fr Capodanno was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Crowning of Mary
Sunday, May 28, 2023
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island crowned Mary this morning as her month comes to an end.
Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island opened an exhibit of Eucharistic miracles from around the world as documented by the late Blessed Carlo Acutis who was an English-born Italian Catholic youth and website designer, who died from Lukemia at age 15 in 2006.
In addition, the church has displayed on the side of the front Altar religious items from the parish used during Masses throughout Sacred Heart’s history, founded in 1875.
The exhibit runs in the church from May 21 through June 11, 2023.
The Dorothy Day Ferryboat Begins Service
Friday, April 28, 2023
St George Terminal
Staten Island Ferry
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Dorothy Day Ferryboat received its Certificate of Inspection from the US Coast Guard today at a ceremony in the St George Terminal at the Staten Island Ferry. NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez was on hand along with Martha Hennessy, granddaughter of Dorothy Day and clergy includiing Bishop John O’Hara, Bishop Peter Byrne, Msgr Kevin Sullivan, and Rev Jarlath Quinn as they celebrated the launching of the boat into regular passenger service. During the ride to Manhattan, Martha Hennessy handed out chocolate chip cookies she baked for every passenger on the ride.
Easter Vigil
Saturday, April 08, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
Fr Rhey Garcia, Administrator of Sacred Heart Church, began the Easter Vigil Saturday evening with the Blessing of Fire outside of the church. The pascal candle and the incense also were lit from the cauldron. The procession entered the darkened church and began the evening liturgy.
Living Stations Procession
Friday, April 07, 2023
St Roch Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
On Good Friday morning, a Living Stations of the Cross procession began at St Roch Church in the Port Richmond area of Staten Island. The group led by Auxiliary Bishop Peter Byrne was conducted in Spanish as it walked from the church around the neighborhood. Several stops were make to pray the Stations of the Cross.
Holy Thursday Service
Thursday, April 06, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The “Mass of the Lord’s Supper and Washing of the Feet” was celebrated by parish administrator Fr Rhey Garcia on Thursday evening at Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island. Twelve men of the parish were selected to represent the Apostles. Fr Rhey washed the foot of each man during the evening. At the conclusion of the service, the lights were dimmed and a procession circled the church as the altar was stripped. The church remained open until midnight for silent worship.
Palm Sunday
Sunday, April 02, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Palm Sunday is celebrated today in Christian Churches throughout the world. Fr Rhey Garcia, Administrator at Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island celebrated at 7 AM.
Notre Dame Club of Staten Island
32nd Annual Bread of Life Drive (BOLD)
Friday, March 31, 2023
Saturday, April 01, 2023
The University of Notre Dame Club of Staten Island concluded it's 32nd annual Bread of Life Drive (BOLD) Brooklyn on Friday and Saturday. This food drive is considered to be the largest one in the United States. The food was picked up from various donor schools in Staten Island and Brooklyn on Friday, and distributed to recipient charities on Saturday morning at Monsignor Farrell High School.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Cardinal’s Annual Stewardship Appeal
Saturday, March 18, 2023
St Charles Church
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
Cardinal Timothy Dolan celebrated the 5:30 pm Mass at St Charles Church in Staten Island on Saturday, March 18, 2023. He concelebrated with Bishops John O’Hara and Peter Byrne, as well as Rev Patrick F Buuckley, Pastor, and Parochial Vicars Rev Jefrey Pomeisl and Rev Ruwandana Mendis and Deacons Stephen Tobon and Lawrence Droge. The Knights of Columbus provided a Honor Guard. The Mass was followed by a reception in the parish’s school gymnasium for invited guests as part of the Cardinal’s Annual Stewardship Appeal.
The Feast of St Joseph March 19, 2023
Sacred Heart Church
Staten Island, NY
Sunday, March 19, 2023
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Church of Sacred Heart celebrated the feast of St Joseph on Sunday, March 19, 2023. St Joseph’s Bread was distributed after all the Sunday Masses, sponsored by Moretti Bakery on Forest Avenue in West Brighton.
Ash Wednesday 2023
Ash Wednesday services were conducted all around the world today, February 21, 2023. At Sacred Heart Church in Staten Island, a full day of services began with a 9:30 am Mass that included the distribution of Ashes. A Communion and Ashes service followed at 12 noon. At 3 pm ashes again were distributed. Finally at 7 PM a Mass was celebrated including more distribution of Ashes concluded the day.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Feast of Three Kings
Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption Parishes
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY
Sunday, January 08, 2023
For Credit:
Mary DiBiase Blaich Photography
www.CatholicStatenIslandNewsAndHappenings.com
The Feast of the Three Kings was celebrated on Sunday, January 8, 2023 at Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption Parishes in West Brighton, Staten Island. They celebrated the Epiphany of Jesus by distributing toys for children under 13 years, as well as food in the school gym. A food pantry donation was available to the guests. The choir from Moore Catholic High School performed, as volunteers distributed the food and toys. The event was sponsored by the Bread of Life Drive of the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island, Empire BlueCross/ BlueShield, Moore Catholic High School Performing Arts Institute, and Catholic Charities of Staten Island.
The Feast of the Three Kings was celebrated on Sunday, January 8, 2023 at Our Lady of Mt Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption Parishes in West Brighton, Staten Island. They celebrated the Epiphany of Jesus by distributing toys for children under 13 years, as well as food in the school gym. A food pantry donation was available to the guests. The choir from Moore Catholic High School performed, as volunteers distributed the food and toys. The event was sponsored by the Bread of Life Drive of the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island, Empire BlueCross/ BlueShield, Moore Catholic High School Performing Arts Institute, and Catholic Charities of Staten Island.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died today, December 31, 2022. He had visited New York in 2008, and paid a visit to the chapel at St Joseph’s Seminary in Dunwoodie, NY where he blessed a child with disabilities at a special service for them.
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Monday, December 12, 2022
The Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel-St Benedicta-St Mary of the Assumption celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe at their church in Staten Island, NY. The multi-day celebration concluded Monday with a procession carrying the statue through the neighborhood, and followed with a Mass in the church that was elaborately decorated with flowers in a red and white theme. The church was overflowing with worshipers and a overflow tent to handle the extra worshipers.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Christmas Tree Lighting
Sacred Heart Church in West Brighton, Staten Island, held a ceremony to light Christmas trees donated by parishioners. Fr Rhey Garcia, the parish administrator, held a brief service at the ceremony following the 5PM Mass on Saturday, December 10, 2022. Children participated in the ceremony dressed as the Holy Family, Angels and Shepherds. The trees were decorated with lights and a sign with the name of the family who contributed to this fundraiser. Refreshments were served following the event.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Christ the King Procession
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Sunday, November 22, 2022
Church of the Sacred Heart
Staten Island, New York
Parish Administrator Fr Rhey Garcia led a procession in honor of Christ the King after the parish’s 1 pm Mass on Sunday, November 20, 2022. They walked through the West Brighton Neighborhood, around Sacred Heart School, and onto Castleton Avenue returning to the Church.
The procession was comprised of parishioners, congregants, students from the school, and members of the Holy Name Society.
Dorothy Day Ferryboat Commissioning
St George Terminal
Staten Island Ferry
Staten Island, New York
Friday, November 04, 2022
Photographs by:
Mary DiBiase Blaich for CATHOLIC NEW YORK
Just four days short of what have been her 125th birthday on November 08, The Dorothy Day Ferryboat was officially commissioned on Friday, November 4, 2022 at the St George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island, NY. The boat is named for the 20th century journalist and Catholic peace activist who founded the Catholic Worker Movement. This boat is the third and final new Ollis-class Staten Island Ferry, and will begin carrying passengers across the harbor later this year.
VIPS included:
Martha Hennessy, granddaughter of Dorothy Day
Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, NYC Department of Transportation
Captain Zeita Merchant, USCG, Captain of Sector New York
Roseann Caruana, NYC DOT Staten Island Borough Commissioner
Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella
Bishop John O'Hara
Bishop Peter Byrne
Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon
NY State Assemblyman Michael Cusick
Staten Island Boro President Vito Fossella
School and Organizations Allocations
Blessed Sacrament School
Staten Island, New York
Monday, October 24, 2022
Photographs by:
Mary DiBiase Blaich for CATHOLIC NEW YORK
Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York, will joined Staten Island Borough President, Vito Fossella to announce budget allocations for 21 Catholic schools and organizations on Monday, October 24th at 10:30a.m. at Blessed Sacrament School, 830 Delafield Ave, Staten Island, NY 10310.
The funds will be used toward expenses that provide programs, services, education, and more for those attending Catholic school, or those seeking help from the borough’s Catholic organizations and its resources.
Attending the announcement were His Eminence, Timothy Cardinal Dolan Archbishop of New York; Hon. Vito Fossella, Staten Island Borough President; Bishop Peter Byrne, pastor of Blessed Sacrament Church; Michael J. Deegan, Superintendent of Schools; Zoilita Herrara, Staten Island Regional Superintendent of Schools; Michael Coppotelli, Sr. Associate Superintendent of Schools; Joseph Cocozello, principal of Blessed Sacrament School.
After the announcement, the Cardinal and the Boro President visited several classrooms and greeted students and teachers.
Portraits of the two late pastors of Blessed Sacrament who died in the last year were displayed. Msgr Ferdinando Berardi was on the left, while Msgr Peter Finn was on the right.
St Adalbert-St Roch Parish 100th Anniversary
St Roch Church celebrated its 100th Anniversary on Saturday, September 24, 2022 with a procession, a Mass, and a picnic. The parish is now merged and renamed St Adalbert- StRoch Parish. The celebration began with a procession that made it’s way through the neighborhood of Port Richmond with statues of St Roch, St Adalbert and Our Lady of Guadalupe driven aboard flatback trucks. In addition, an Italian marching banb, “The Giglio Band” accompanied the procession. Auxiliary Bishop Edmund Whalen, a weekend associate at the parish celebrated an outdoor Mass under a tent in the church parking lot. Con celebrants included Auxiliary Bishop Peter Byrne , who is pastor at neighboring Blessed Sacrament Church; Msgr William Belford, pastor at St Teresa Church and Vicar for the Staten Island Deanery; Father Albin Roby, pastor at St Adalbert-St Roch; and former priests of the parish. Following the Mass, a family picnic was held in the parking lot of the Church. The Sisters of St John the Baptist who taught at the former school were in attendance.
Sacred Heart Church Holy Name Society Communion Breakfast
Sunday, September 18, 2022
Sunday morning the Holy Name Society (HNS) of Sacred Heart Church held it's annual Communion Breakfast at Li Greci's Staaten. (local catering hall). The opening comments were from current pastor Fr Eric Rapaglia who announced that morning he is being transferred to St Joseph-St Thomas-St John Neumann in two weeks. The guest speaker was John Walsh, St Peter's Boys HS Assistant Principal and long time Sacred Heart student, parishioner, and volunteer. The HNS Community Service Award was presented to our former pastor, Fr Louis Jerome, currently pastor of St Peter-St Paul-Assumption and Our Lady of Good Counsel Parishes.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
The Dorothy Day Ferryboat
Friday, September 16, 2022
After a two week journey from the shipbuilder in Florida, the newest Staten Island Ferryboat, Dorothy Day is towed into New York harbor. This is the newest class of boats and joins two others that recently were put into service, The Staff Sgt Michael Ollis and The Sandy Ground. The boat arrived under the Verrazzano Bridge, sailed into New York Harbor, and then made its way to the Kill Van Kull to the Caddell Dry Dock where it will be cleaned, tested and prepared to be put into service later this year.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich, for Catholic New York
Eve of Remembrance
Friday, September 09, 2022
The University of Notre Dame Club of Staten Island held their annual Eve of Remembrance to honor the Staten Islanders who died on September 11, 2001 and those who have since died of 9/11 related diseases. The evening began with the Staten Island Pipes and Drums leading a procession of clergy, Knights of Columbus, military members and students who participated in the service.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich for Catholic New York
Fr Vincent Capodanno 55th Anniversary Mass and Memorial Service
Sunday, September 04, 2022
Fr Vincent Capodanno Chapel, Ft Wadsworth, Staten Island, New York
Fr Vincent R Capodanno, a Military Chaplin assigned to the Marines was killed in Vietnam 55 years ago today on September 04, 1967. He was honored with a Mass and Memorial Service at the chapel that bears his name on the grounds of Ft Wadsworth, Staten Island, New York. The service was sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and The Sons of Italy, the Marine Corps League and several other veteran organizations. The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Peter J Byrne, Episcopal Vicar, and Deacon Charles Jude Carroll. The chapel was filled to capacity with standing room only. During the Mass, Fr Capodanno’s cousin Al Lambert sang the Ave Maria. Following the Mass, the Memorial Service was held at the statue of Fr Capodanno next to the chapel. The service opened with the presentation of color from both the FDNY and the Marine Corps League. Wreaths were laid at the statue from veterans organizations, the K of C, and the Sons of Italy- Fr Vincent Capodanno Chapter. The service was concluded with a 21 gun salute by members of the Marine Corps League. Several members of the Capodanno family were in attendance.
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich
Mike Piazza Speaks on Faith
July 28, 2022
The Sheen Center
New York, NY
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich (photograhed for Catholic New York
Former New York Met spoke at the Sheen Center in July about his Catholic faith. He also talked about his years playing professional baseball for the Dodgers and the Mets.
Bocce Camp
July 28, 2022
Monsignor Farrell High School
Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich (photographed for Catholic New York)
A Bocce Camp for students was held this year at Monsignor Farrell HS. The five day camp taught the group of co-ed campers the basics of the game on Farrell’s five courts. The camp was run by the school’s president, Lou Tobacco who also provided the students with Italian music and food each day.
Summer Intern
July 14, 2022
Rosebank, Staten Island, New York
Photographs by: Mary DiBiase Blaich
Originally published in Catholic New York
Ryan Benevento, a student at the University of Notre Dame, spent the summer as an intern at the Good Counsel Home in Staten Island. She lived at the home, and worked with mothers and their young children. Ryan also received school credit for her work.
Our Lady Queen of Peace Church
100th Anniversary Celebration
Staten Island, NY
Saturday, June 18, 2022
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich (Photographed for Catholic New York)
Cardinal Timothy Dolan paid a parish visit to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Parish. He con celebrated the Mass, and then participated in a procession for the Feast of Corpus Christi.
Feast of Corpus Christi
Sunday, June 19, 2022
Feast of Corpus Christi Procession
St Clare Church, Staten Island, NY
Photographs by Mary DiBiase Blaich (photograhed for Catholic New York)
Parishioners of St Clare Church and neighbors marched in a procession through the Great Kills neighborhood on the Feast of Corpus Christi. The Monstrance was carried by priests and deacons of the parish and made four stops at Altars along the way.
2022 Easter Vigil, Our Lady Star of the Sea, Staten Island, NY
Fr Joy Mampilly, Pastor of Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Staten Island, baptizes a new catechumen during the Easter Vigil Service on Satuday, April 16, 2022.