Bishop DiMarzio and Catholic Migration Services Honored at Annual Shining Star Dinner

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By Jessica Easthope

Catholic Migration Services’ annual Shining Star dinner was different than in years past – there were less people but the message of inclusion and diversity in the Diocese of Brooklyn remained. 

Instead of honoring individuals from each of the ethnic apostolates like usual – there was only one honoree this year, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio.

Bishop DiMarzio was recognized for his 25th episcopal anniversary and his years of advocacy on behalf of immigrants in the Diocese of Brooklyn. Catholic Migration Services was also honored for 50 years of helping and uplifting the more than two million immigrants of all races and religions who call the diocese home. 

“It shows that we really do have a unity that’s unique to be able to do this here in Brooklyn,” Bishop DiMarzio said. 

We have this wonderful organization to not just meet legal needs but pastoral needs and live out the gospel message of welcoming the stranger,” said Father Patrick Keating, the CEO of Catholic Migration Services. 

There are millions of people on the move every day in the world and I think it’s going to be part of our future, part of our life,” said Msgr. Ronald Marino who founded the annual dinner. 

The Shining Star dinner, which is normally held in two sessions, is Catholic Migration Services’ biggest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from the dinner go toward keeping legal services free for immigrants in need.