By Christine Persichette
For some Catholics, faith extends well beyond the walls of a church. Every first Friday of the month, members of the Flushing First Friday Club gather at Verdi’s restaurant in Whitestone to celebrate Mass and honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
The tradition, which has endured for more than six decades, transforms the banquet hall into a sacred space where tables become pews and the faithful come together in prayer and community.
Barbara Eivers, 90, the club’s program chair, said she loves attending Mass outside of a traditional church setting. “I love attending mass outside away from church to show people that faith is everywhere — everywhere we are,” she said.
The devotion calls Catholics to attend Mass and receive Holy Communion on nine consecutive first Fridays. Eivers recalled the promise attached to the practice.
“We’ve been promised a happy death if you make the Fridays,” she said.John Golden, board chair, has been part of the club for decades after being recruited by one of its original members.
“It’s important to keep the Catholic faith going in reference especially to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” he said.
Carol White, club president and a retired nurse, said the gatherings offer more than just a meal and Mass. “The camaraderie, the spiritual uplift. We always have wonderful guest speakers,” she said.
The club sends notices to about 18 Queens churches to invite parishioners, but all are welcome.
The cost is $48, which covers a five-course meal.For decades, the Flushing First Friday Club has kept a simple but powerful mission alive — bringing faith, friendship and devotion to the Sacred Heart into the heart of everyday life.