The Church of Saint Mary proudly hosted its highly anticipated Parish Gala at the scenic Port Washington Yacht Club on Saturday, June 15, 2024. This beautiful event, a testament to our faith-filled community spirit, was graced by 160 guests joining the festive celebration, which featured a delightful cocktail hour, sumptuous dinner, and lively dancing.
Rev. Fr. Robert A. Romeo, pastor of St. Mary’s, welcomed the guests during the event program and expressed his gratitude to the event chairs, committee members, and all who generously supported the event. He presented this year’s Magnificat Award to recipients Josephine and Santo Gentile. Fr. Bob was overjoyed to bestow the awards upon the couple for their joyful hearts and dedication as stewards of Christ’s work.
During a moving acceptance speech, Josephine Gentile spoke on behalf of the couple.
“We humbly accept the Magnificat Award on this glorious occasion. This recognition was unexpected, and we humbly embrace it as both a divine gift and an invitation to deepen our commitment to the Gospel teachings.”
She continued with a passionate call to action to those present by sharing,
“Santo and I desire nothing more than that the members of St. Mary’s will join us in nurturing and mentoring our youth and other members on the fringe. It is important that we guide through our actions, demonstrating the love of God and the teachings of Jesus in our lives. As senior members and leaders, let’s help our Reverend Fathers with all their hidden sacrifices to engage each other and our future youth in the Christian ways, enriching faith and fortifying character far beyond the virtual and empty electronic work out there.”
The Church of Saint Mary’s Magnificat Medal includes the phrase “My soul magnifies the Lord,” taken from an early Christian hymn. Mrs. Gentile said the “phrase beautifully embodies our mission to inspire our youth. Just as our Virgin Mary’s faith was declared through her actions and spirit, we, too, are called to live our faith in the same way.”
It is with great hope and prayers that the Gentiles have inspired our parishioners and friends to help us continue our parish ministries and outreach to serve within the parish and beyond. Donations can be made to the parish through the post-event Gala donation portal below.
Click the button at the bottom of this page to view the Photo Gallery from the event.
For more information, please contact Kiera Walsh in the Office of Development at 516-627-4605 or send a message to [email protected].