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Cristo Rey Spark Program Focus on Faith and Academics

By Katie Vasquez and Alexandra Moyen

EAST FLATBUSH — Journi Brielle Forester knows where she wants to spend the next four years. The rising eighth grader came to Cristo Rey Brooklyn’s SPARK summer program with her sights set on the school itself, using the three weeks not just to learn, but to get a feel for the teachers and community she hopes to join.

“I feel welcomed. I’m trying to get to know the teachers who work at Cristo Rey before I transfer into high school,” she said. “I really hope they accept me.”

Part of the appeal of the SPARK program so far, Journi noted, has been the daily prayer.

“I grew up believing in God, but I never really had a relationship with him, I never got to talk to him or anything,” she said. “But I like the fact that we pray every morning and speak to him, and I feel like I’m connected closer to him now.”

Faith is central to SPARK, a new three-week summer program launched by Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School for rising sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in Brooklyn and Queens. Developed in partnership with the Diocese of Brooklyn and nearby Brooklyn Jesuit Prep Middle School, the program welcomed approximately 30 students this year drawn from Catholic schools, charter schools, and public schools.

“We talked about the students that come to us in ninth grade, and how we can get a head start with them,” said Michael Motyl, president of Cristo Rey Brooklyn. “We also looked at how we could be better community partners, knowing that summer is a time when students often need something to do.”

SPARK stands for: spirituality, professionalism, academics, resilience, and knowledge. Each morning, students focus on math, writing, and reading. Afternoons open into recreational activities including chess, Legos, improv, sports, and card games. Every day begins and ends with conversations on professionalism and spirituality led by educators and Cristo Rey seniors.

On June 22, the program kicked off with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert Brennan.

“He spoke to the students about the key role they played in the launch of it and the pride that they should have in being in the inaugural cohort,” Motyl said.

For Emmanuel Johnson, a seventh grader at Midwood Catholic Academy and a parishioner at St. Thomas Aquinas, Flatlands, the program was something worth sharing. After hearing about SPARK, he recruited about five friends to join — a nudge that came partly from his pastor, Father Dwayne Davis.

“He was telling me that instead of spending the summer at home playing games, I could come to a fun program and invite my friends with me,” Emmanuel said.

Fellow seventh grader Alexander Sookdeo, also from Midwood Catholic Academy, said SPARK has been preparing him for what comes next.

“I feel like it’s teaching us stuff that can prepare us to go to Catholic high schools, such as here at Cristo Rey,” he said. “The test preparation is really good and would help future SPARK students.”

Alexander recalled a grammar lesson on sentence structure and pronoun use that he said will serve him well going into eighth grade. He also said being able to stay active during the summertime has been equally rewarding.

“I’m able to connect with friends and meet new people, which has been very exciting for me,” he said. “Personally, I think more people should come to this program to get out of their home and play basketball or participate in other programs.”

Tuition starts at $300 but is offered on a sliding scale based on family needs, with outside donors helping to cover costs.

“We never want the cost to be an obstacle to this opportunity,” Motyl said.

The program is expected to return next summer with expanded enrollment. Applications for the 2027 cohort will open toward the end of the school year.

For more information contact [email protected].

Belle Harbor Crossing Guard Retires: A Community Farewell in Queens

By Alexandra Moyen and Currents News

BELLE HARBOR — For nearly five decades, Mary Murray has watched over the same corner with a stop sign in one hand and, often, rosary beads close by — guiding generations of students safely across the street and bringing quiet faith to a job she came to love.

On June 24, students and teachers from The Belle Harbor School (P.S./M.S. 114) honored the 89-year-old crossing guard with a small parade to the street corner she has steadfastly guarded for 48 years.

Murray, who retired at the end of the school year, said the parade was something she never expected — especially seeing the students carrying signs bearing her name and face, and receiving an award from the school’s principal.

“It’s emotional, it really is,” she said, fighting tears, and noting that crossing guard work is an occupation “you come to love.”

During the parade, Belle Harbor School Principal Jonathan Halfmann gifted Murray with a plaque and a bouquet of flowers and thanked everyone for coming to celebrate “such a wonderful and amazing crossing guard.”

RELATED: From Queens, St. Francis de Sales Students Raise Over $17,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Halfmann has been principal for only one year, but has been a part of the school community for at least 20 years. He said over the years he has come to know Murray as someone who can “light up” the community’s day.

“She knows the kids by name. She’s been a staple to the community in supporting us and crossing kids safely each and every day,” Halfmann said. “It doesn’t matter the weather conditions, her health. She’s here for the kids, and that’s what’s so remarkable.”

Seventh grader Megan Willson, who arrived at Belle Harbor School a year ago, said Murray made a fast impression as a “very kind and supportive person.”

“She’s always there making sure we get home safely,” she said. “Always asking us how our day has been.”

Murray’s daughter, Maureen Murray, said the strength and endurance her mother brings to the corner each day are brought to all facets of her life. And when it came to celebrating 48 years of service, she said her mother deserved every bit of it.

“She’s got more merits in heaven than,” she said before pausing. “I can’t even think of how many points she’s earned.”

She recalled one moment in particular that showed her mother’s dedication to her responsibilities as a crossing guard.

“The doctor asked, ‘How did you walk on a broken leg?’ She said, ‘I had to get to the corner.’ And that was it,” Maureen said. “There’s no pain she can’t walk through.”

Murray is also known as a fixture at daily Mass at St. Francis de Sales Church in Belle Harbor. Whether it be before her shift, afterward, or sometimes both, she is always there to meet with her band of “pew buddies” — a crew she’s been loyal to for five years.

“If there were three of us, you would mind my spot so I would sit in the same spot,” Murray said. “It’s really nice — 8 a.m. Mass on Sunday morning, you’d meet, and when you leave, it’s ‘have a great week and all that stuff.’ ”

Beyond Mass, Murray brings her faith with her to the office each day. She always has rosary beads when guarding the corner of Beach 134th Street and Cronston Avenue in Belle Harbor.

“You keep your hands in your pockets, so you might as well say your [rosary].”

As for retirement, Murray plans to remain active.

“I have seven children, 12 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild due in October,” Murray explained, “so I will be busy.”

Diocese of Brooklyn Rallies Support for Venezuela

By Currents News and Alexandra Moyen

ELMHURST — The suffering in Venezuela is “unspeakable,” Bishop Robert Brennan told the Tablet before parishioners gathered for a special Mass at St. Bartholomew Church dedicated to the people of Venezuela following the recent devastating earthquakes.

“We pray for the people in the city, those who have died, those who are injured, their families,” Bishop Brennan said. “We pray for those involved in search and rescue. And now, it’s been a few days, so prayers are urgent.”

Bishop Brennan celebrated the Mass organized by the diocese’s Venezuelan Apostolate, led by Father Ernesto Alonso-Aguila.

“It’s a very sad situation because there are a lot of people suffering because of the loss of their loved ones,” Father Alonso-Aguila told The Tablet. “There is a lot of uncertainty at this point, but there is also a lot of solidarity with people around the world who are helping and want to help.”

The twin earthquakes struck on June 24 near San Felipe, in northern Venezuela, west of Caracas. A 7.2-magnitude quake was followed 39 seconds later by a 7.5-magnitude quake, which was the strongest to hit Venezuela in over a century, devastating Caracas and the coastal state of La Guaira.

At least 1,700 people have died, 5,000 are injured, and roughly 2,500 structures have been damaged or destroyed as of June 29, according to Venezuelan officials.

Bishop Brennan said the tragedy hits close to home for many parishioners who have family members in Venezuela.

“This is a very good opportunity for us to be together, to pray, to be united in our prayer, and to be on the lookout for ways that we, as a church, and we as a nation, can be of assistance,” he said.

Bishop Brennan has asked all pastors in the diocese to conduct special monetary collections for the victims in Venezuela. The donations will be sent to Catholic Relief Services to provide humanitarian aid and support relief efforts.

Father Alonso-Aguila said volunteers have been collecting nonperishable food, medicine, clothing, and baby supplies that the parish will send to the country. There were two collections during the special Mass, as well.

“It’s very sad. We’re all thinking about them,” Consuelo Roque, a lector at St. Bartholomew, said of those affected by the earthquakes. “We are praying with them, and we’re going to try to help them in the best way possible.”

Grace De La Rosa, another lector, said a friend, a Venezuelan priest now living in Boston, told her his mother lost her apartment in the earthquake.

“It’s very painful for me what happened there,” said De La Rosa, who is from the Dominican Republic. “This is just the beginning. We have to keep praying for them, and hopefully the government is going to help recuperate the country and the people.”

Father Alonso-Aguila closed with an appeal beyond the Catholic community.

“I want to call the people of goodwill, not only Catholics, everyone who wants to help — this is the moment to do it,” he said. “First and foremost, with our prayers, and also with everything that we can give to them, because they really are in need of everything at this point.”

 

Catholic Parishioners Pray as Haitians Face Loss of TPS Protections

By Katie Vasquez

Hundreds of Haitian Americans gathered June 27 alongside Bishop Robert Brennan at the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in prayer and solidarity as many expressed fear over the future of hundreds of thousands of Haitians who now face possible deportation following a recent Supreme Court decision.

Haiti received Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation in 2010 after a devastating earthquake. The designation has allowed Haitians to live and work legally in the United States for years.

Marie Yolene Jacques said conditions in Haiti remain dangerous because of ongoing gang violence.

“Back home, nothing is clear yet because, you know, we have these gangs,” Jacques said. “They are putting people away, take their house, take their property.”

Myriame Jerome said the prospect of returning to Haiti is heartbreaking.

“It’s very sad because back home it’s not safe,” Jerome said. “Where are they going to go? How are they going to get there? It’s very hurtful, painful to see.”

On June 25, the Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to end legal protections provided through the TPS program. The decision affects approximately 350,000 Haitians who have lived and worked in the United States for decades.

Jacques said many TPS recipients have established deep roots in the country.

“They build their lives here, they have children,” she said. “They have the family here, they pay tax and I think it’s not right.”

The policy change could also have significant effects on several industries, including health care.

“We feel the heat, short staff,” Sonja said. “A lot of nurses will be off their position. The home care industry is getting a big hit.”

As many Catholic bishops warn the decision will have serious consequences, parishioners said they remain committed to their faith despite the uncertainty.

“With my Catholic faith, I remain faithful,” Sonja said. “I do remain faithful. But at the same time, realistically speaking, it is a big blow. But we will continue in prayers. Amen.”

National Eucharistic Pilgrimage Leader Reflects on Powerful Journey Across the U.S.

By Currents News

The 2026 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage has brought thousands of Catholics together in prayer, procession, and worship across the country.

Assistant Team Lead Zachary Dotson reflects on the stops that left the biggest impact, the growing devotion to the Eucharist, and the moments that made this year’s pilgrimage unforgettable.

Currents News Special: America 250-The Faith Story

As the United States celebrates 250 years of independence we’re exploring the vital role religion, and Catholics in particular, have played in the American story.
This special newscast features a look at the ways Catholics in the Diocese of Brooklyn and across the nation are marking the semiquincentennial. Highlights include:
  • The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage — One Nation Under God
Pilgrims are carrying the Blessed Sacrament across America, stopping at sites that highlight the Catholic Church’s enduring presence in the U.S.. Beginning in St. Augustine, America’s oldest Catholic city and ending in Philadelphia, the pilgrimage is serving as a powerful witness to faith, unity and hope.
  • The Country’s Consecration
For the first time in the nation’s history, the U.S. Bishops have consecrated the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus during its 250th year. We examine the meaning of this historic act and why the Diocese of Brooklyn joined in this spiritual milestone by entrusting the country’s future to Christ.
  • The Fight for Freedom and Faith in the Diocese of Brooklyn
Long before Brooklyn became one of America’s most vibrant Catholic communities, its shores and neighborhoods were witness to some of the defining moments of the Revolutionary War. Join us in visiting historic sites throughout the Diocese of Brooklyn, including the Brooklyn Heights promenade and the Old Stone House in Park Slope. Learn how the struggle for liberty unfolded in the diocese, making its Catholic story part of the broader American journey.

Catholic Schools Night Highlights: Collars Break Streak

By Jessica Meditz and Katie Vasquez

CONEY ISLAND — Divine intervention or not, the Collars finally broke their losing streak. 

Behind a late three-run home run by one of this year’s bobblehead honorees, Father Christopher Bethge, priests and seminarians from across Brooklyn and Queens defeated Catholic school principals and administrators 13-5 after a years-long drought at the diocese’s annual Scholars vs. Collars softball game during Catholic Schools Night at Maimonides Park on June 24. 

“That’s why you’re the bobblehead!” Father Christopher Heanue, a fellow bobblehead honoree, shouted from the dugout as Father Bethge rounded the bases. 

The annual event hosted by DeSales Media Group in partnership with the Diocese of Brooklyn brought together hundreds of students, families, and supporters to celebrate another successful year of Catholic education before the Brooklyn Cyclones took the field against the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. 

The evening recognized over 100 eighth-grade valedictorians and salutatorians from Catholic schools in the Diocese of Brooklyn, as well as students honored for their contributions to The Tablet Jr. 

Among those honored was St. Ephrem valedictorian Amir Alkhoury, who said the recognition reflected the hard work he put in throughout elementary school before heading to Xaverian High School this fall. 

“It feels great to be accomplished with your hard work,” Amir said. 

“I’m honored. I always studied really hard because I wanted the title of valedictorian, so it means a lot,” said Mara, who will also attend Xaverian High School. 

“My brother goes there, and I love it,” she continued. “The community and the kids all seem really nice.” 

Deacon Kevin McCormack, superintendent of Diocese of Brooklyn schools, said Catholic Schools Night is a great celebration.  

“We’re here at Maimonides Park, we’re just having fun. It’s hot dogs, it’s outside, it’s Brooklyn and Queens,” he said. “We have all the top scholars in each class come down … their parents can really get excited about it. It’s a special day.” 

St. Ephrem Catholic Academy Principal Michael Phillips, playing in his third Scholars vs. Collars game, said one of his favorite moments each year comes after the game when he congratulates his graduating students before they begin high school. 

“I get to give them a handshake and a hug and tell them goodbye one last time,” Phillips said. “Our valedictorian and salutatorian are both amazing young boys who are going to do amazing things now that they’re going into high school.  

“I’m going to miss them, but I know that they’re going to do amazing things because of the education they got in Catholic school.” 

Father Christopher Heanue, pastor of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Jackson Heights, said the event is about far more than the final score. 

Since arriving at the parish last fall, Heanue has championed Catholic education, helping to raise more than $200,000 for scholarships at St. Joan of Arc Catholic School. 

RELATED: With Suitcase Yet Unpacked in Queens, New Pastor Father Christopher Heanue Raises $208,000 for St. Joan of Arc School Scholarships

“I’ve been so lucky this year at St. Joan of Arc with being assigned there and doing all the work that we’ve done in the school,” he continued. “I’m really honored to be asked to be on the bobblehead.” 

Bishop Robert Brennan said the celebration reflects the collective effort behind Catholic education throughout Brooklyn and Queens. 

“It’s the hard work the students do, the faculty do, the administration does. We’re celebrating all the families,” Bishop Brennan said. “Coney Island is part of the iconic scene of Brooklyn. We bring our identities as a Catholic family to this Brooklyn icon.”

Catholic News Headlines for Thursday 6/25/26   

Priests reclaimed bragging rights over Catholic school educators at the annual Collars vs. Scholars game. It was all part of Catholic Schools Night, honoring the top eighth-grade students from the Diocese of Brooklyn.

Thousands of people have already secured tickets to Archbishop Fulton Sheen’s beatification in St. Louis in September.

At the latest stop of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, Faithful attended a sacred music concert and learned about the Shroud of Turin during their journey.

The Belle Harbor community honored a devoted crossing guard who retired after 47 years of helping generations of children safely get to school.