Another Catholic Schools Week has passed.
Up Front and Personal
Celebrating the Saints of Journalism
As another spring semester starts, I can again tell my journalism students at St. John’s University about the patron saint of writers and journalists, St. Francis de Sales, whose feast day was Jan. 24. But this year I also get to discuss a saint who has received support to be a new paradigm for the fourth estate.
Carrying the Cross For Jesus in D.C.
I am filled with the spirit of this beautiful message from St. John Paul II. It is this message that encourages me when I join with the hundreds of thousands of marchers who are giving their sincere gift to the millions of helpless unborn babies who will never live to see the light of day.
A Place of Light, Peace, and Hope
In 2019, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio asked me to be the rector of the Cathedral Basilica of St. James in Downtown Brooklyn.
Remembering My Papal Experience
When Pope Benedict XVI visited New York in 2008, it was the job of Brooklyn and Queens Catholics to both welcome the pontiff when he arrived and then to see him off as he returned to the Eternal City after his Journey of Hope to America.
A Special Slice of Extra-Ordinary Time
This past year, several couples near and dear to me welcomed new infants to their delighted families. Each time, I wrote a note to welcome the child, congratulate the parents, and wish the happy family much joy and love in their lives together. I always end these notes with a wish that the family enjoys this very special time in their lives as they get to know each other.
My Family’s Always Been About Service
I wish I could sit here and tell you how it all began but, honestly, I feel like it’s a trait that us Garcias are born with. We have always been a family of service, whether it be serving in the military like my father and brothers did or going out into the community to find those in need like my mother has done and has continued to do since before I was born.
Our Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
Our parish of Corpus Christi in Woodside just made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. On my part, it was very special, as it was to fulfill my mother’s dream. Being a Catholic, to be able to step on the land where Jesus lived has been the lifelong desire of my 86-year-old Cuban mother, Orinda. After having resolved apparent hurdles of the trip, and counting on the blessing of God, the trip was truly a success.
Scouting & My Eagle Scout Project
Over the course of a decade being a Scout, I’ve met many people, earned close to 40 merit badges, and accumulated hundreds of hours of community service.
The Traditions of Advent Season
This Sunday, Nov. 27, marks the beginning of Advent, a time of anticipation for the coming of Christ. Many wonderful traditions practiced throughout the world offer a glimpse of the varied ways we can awaken this spirit of anticipation within ourselves, our families, and our communities.