Pope Says 2016 Was Filled with Surprises

Pope Francis described 2016 as a “packed year,” one full of initiatives that helped Catholics “see and touch with their hands the fruits of the mercy of God.”

A Way Forward on Immigration

by Archbishop Jose H. Gomez THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS of the United States designated Dec. 12, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, as a national day of prayer for migrants and refugees.

Catholic Migration Services Presents Its Shining Stars

Catholic Migration Services conducted two dinners on successive Fridays to honor the recipients of this year’s Shining Star Awards presented to parishioners of the diocese’s ethnic ministries for their service to the Church in Brooklyn and Queens.

Fathers from Afar Aid Diocese During Summer

Every summer, about 80 priests from around the world visit the diocese to cover for local priests, who go on vacation. “But don’t think you are just here to fill in.”

Dare We Strand Refugees?

Dear Editor: As I began to comment on reader Tom Hackert’s letter regarding immigration (July 16), I hesitated for two reasons: I was sure your office would already be inundated with protests to those thoughts and sentiments. And, I honestly could not decide on one single point to debate among Mr. Hackert’s obviously heartfelt but possibly misplaced concerns.

Hemrick

Spirit of Inclusion Breaks Down Walls

When snooty selectiveness threatens our reasonableness and sanity, it then becomes inadmissible. Circumscribing ourselves by overemphasizing “me,” “mine” and “I” leads to illogical conclusions.

Controls on Immigration

Dear Editor: Regarding James Schwarzwalder’s letter (June 4), “Empathy for the Immigrants,” let’s be clear, no one has a “right” to come here just because they feel like it.

Being an Example of Love and Mercy

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is tested by a person knowledgeable in the law when He is asked: “What must he do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus responds by testing the scholar – and all who hear this passage – with the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Prayer and Health Are Fair Play at OLPH

High winds and curious passers by made it difficult for volunteers to keep their materials well stocked at their tables in front of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Basilica, Sunset Park.

Empathy for the immigrants

Dear Editor: Regarding Bishop DiMarzio’s recent column (May 21) regarding immigration, the bishop opposes a two-class system and mentions the experience of black slaves in America. The black slaves came to America in chains. Today’s undocumented come of their own volition, acknowledging that many come because of extreme adversity in their native countries. Others come for opportunity.