By Christine Persichette
Father Andrew Tsui would be one of the first to tell you that St. Bartholomew’s in Elmhurst is a very diverse community.
“You have not only Hispanics, but we have a lot of people from Bangladesh, from Filipinos, Chinese, Indonesians, Burmese,” Father Tsui said.
Masses now accommodate a large number of culturally diverse worshippers.
“Despite the cultural differences and linguistic differences, it’s beautiful to see how everyone comes together in worshiping our Lord in this beautiful church,” Father Tsui said.
That includes the younger generation, who gets together weekly at the church to pray and play. It’s called “Faith and Sports.”
Youth minister Angelica Taveras, a newcomer, leads them. Both as a parishioner, she only came to St. Bartholomew’s a few months ago, and as a first-generation immigrant.
“I was born in the Dominican Republic, but I came to New York ever since I was a little girl,” Taveras said.
So she can relate to the kids. And they listen to her and trust her. Taveras brings the stories of the Bible to life in unique ways.
“Having a space where they can come in and know that they are welcome, know that they are known by name, they are respected and building trust with them, creating a space where they’re also comfortable to explore their faith, ask questions and at the same time have some fun, build friendships and do it through sports,” Taveras said.
Taveras spent 11 years in the corporate world but felt a call to work in the church.
“I was a volunteer in the church, but the need to give more to our young people in a parish setting was just instilled in my heart,” Taveras said. So, I just listened to the call, that mission, and the desire to give more—more of what God has given me.”
The bottom line for Taveras is faith can be fun, and she is right where she needs to be.
“When people ask me if I have children, I say yes, I do. I have many,” Taveras jokes.
Faith and Sports is held twice weekly, one night for middle schoolers and the other for high schoolers.
Some high schoolers have become leaders and helped Angelica out with the younger kids.
Now you know Angelica Taveras from St Bartholomew’s and how she makes up the pulse of the parish.