The Bread that Jesus Gives Us for the Journey

Rev. Fr. Anthony Saliba, Bishop Robert J. Brennan, and Rev. Fr . Robert A. Romeo before the processional for Mass on Saturday, August 3, 2024.

His Excellency Robert J. Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn, celebrated the 5:00 PM Saturday Vigil Mass on August 3, 2024, at the Church of Saint Mary. The Mass was offered in remembrance of his mother, Patricia, who died earlier this year and also celebrated the shared birthday of his parents, who were born on the same day, two years apart. With his father, Robert J. Brennan, Sr., and relatives present to join the celebration of the Eucharist, Bishop Brennan shared a heartwarming story of his family’s journey from Brooklyn to Long Island before the construction of the Expressway and how food was sustenance for their journey correlating to the Gospel for the Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time.

As a native of Lindenhurst and a lifelong product of Catholic education, Bishop Brennan's journey is one that resonates deeply with our parish. His ordination to the priesthood in 1989 marked the beginning of a remarkable career, with several successful pastoral assignments leading to his installation as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Rockville Centre. In 2019, he was appointed as the Bishop of Columbus, Ohio, and on November 30, 2021, he became the Eighth Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn. His family, too, has a special place in our hearts. His sister, Mrs. Theresa Kemp, is the principal of St. Mary’s Elementary and Middle Schools, a role she fulfills with grace and dedication.

The clergy and parishioners of St. Mary’s were filled with joy and gratitude as we welcomed Bishop Brennan. His presence and the Mass he celebrated were a testament to the warm and hospitable spirit of our parish. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Bishop Brennan for sharing this special time with us and to his family for allowing us to join them in prayer at St. Mary’s for their special intentions. May God continue to bless you abundantly in your service to the people of the Catholic Church.

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