PROSPECT HEIGHTS — Speaking to a group of first- and second-generation Irish Americans, Bishop Robert Brennan said he feels the U.S. can do better when it comes to immigration policy.
Referring to the recent debate that has turned violent on several occasions, he said he was “deeply concerned about the rhetoric on both sides,” and added, “We can have law and order, and we don’t need chaos. At the same time, we can welcome newcomers.”
Bishop Brennan was the principal celebrant and homilist at the Diocese of Brooklyn’s second annual observance of the feast of St. Brigid, one of the three patron saints of Ireland, along with St. Patrick and St. Columba.
The cultural celebration on Jan. 31 at the Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph, which was organized by the diocesan Irish Apostolate, directed by Father Christopher Heanue, drew about 300 people despite freezing temperatures and icy conditions.
The bishop asked the congregation to intercede to St. Brigid of Kildare, known as a miracle worker, “so that Christ will dwell in our hearts.”
Referring to the Gospel of the day, Bishop Brennan noted that Jesus identified with the poor in spirit rather than with those who seek power, possessions, and popularity.
In the same way, he said, St. Brigid rejected the riches that could have been hers and instead embraced a life of prayer and extreme charity. She adopted a radical stance of solidarity and identified with the poor.
Prior to Mass, the flags of the United States and Ireland were presented by the Pipes and Drums of the New York Police Department’s Emerald Society. James O’Dea of Holy Name of Jesus, Windsor Terrace, led the singing of the national anthems of both countries.
RELATED: Pipe-and-Drum Lessons Ignite Harmony at St. Patrick Parish
Sheila Maguire and Barbara Slattery of Our Lady of Angels parish, Bay Ridge, and Ann Dolan of Holy Name carried to the altar traditional symbols of Irish culture — an Irish harp, shillelagh, and the Cross of St. Brigid.
Before the final blessing, Bishop Brennan bestowed a special blessing on the Brigids from the congregation — there were only three — including six-month-old Bridget Mendez, who was accompanied by her parents Joseph and Sarah.
Bishop Brennan explained that his grandfather emigrated from Sligo and took a job with the New York City subway system so that he could provide opportunities for other members of his family and their descendants.
“They came over and struggled so that the next generation would have a better life,” he said.
Following the liturgy, an Irish luncheon was served in the lower hall of the church. Shepherd’s pie and bangers were on the menu, along with homemade Irish soda bread.