Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day and the 250 th anniversary of our nation’s founding, I find myself reflecting on the people and stories that have shaped America.
My own experiences of living and serving in unfamiliar countries taught me a deeper sense of humility and empathy, along with a greater appreciation for the dignity of every person. Catholic social teaching calls us to recognize each person as created in the image and likeness of God and worthy of respect and compassion. This is part of our call to be a missionary Church, one that serves those in need and builds bridges across cultures while sharing Christ’s love with the world.
In many ways, that call is woven into the story of America, a nation endowed by our creator with certain inalienable rights. Yet this story also bears the painful legacy of countless people brought here against their will and forced into lives of enslavement. Their suffering remains a profound wound in our nation’s history. Among them was the Venerable Pierre Toussaint, who was brought to New York from Haiti as an enslaved man. Through deep faith and generous service to others, he became a powerful witness to the Gospel and left an enduring legacy in New York City and the Church.
New York, my new home, remains a place where people from every corner of the world come to build their lives, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral—America’s Parish Church—stands as a powerful symbol of that rich heritage. In this edition of the bulletin, you will find stories of Catholic New Yorkers, including Pierre Toussaint, whose deep faith and commitment to serving others helped in building New York, the United States, and the Church in this country. As we celebrate our nation’s independence, may we give thanks for those who came before us and renew our commitment to building a future guided by faith and inspired by Christ.
Have a blessed Fourth of July and enjoy the summer. May God bless you along the journey.
As I am,
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks Archbishop of New York
For more than 250 years, Catholics across New York have helped shape the story of America through faith, sacrifice, and service.
From immigrants seeking hope and opportunity to priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful who built parishes, schools, hospitals, and communities, Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of New York have played an important role in the growth of both the Church and the nation. Their dedication to faith, family, education, charity, and civic life has left a lasting impact on American history.
As our nation commemorates its 250 th anniversary, we invite you to discover some of the remarkable Catholics whose lives and witness helped build and strengthen America. The stories on the following pages offer just a glimpse of the many men and women whose faith inspired extraordinary contributions to our country.
For even more stories, videos, and events celebrating the Catholic role in the American story, visit archny.org/america-250
New videos are added every week over the summer, highlighting the people, events, and contributions that demonstrate how Catholics helped build America.
Discover more on the next page >
This is Our America.
Governor Thomas Dongan
New York’s first Catholic colonial governor, Dongan secured the 1683 Charter of Liberties, guaranteeing religious freedom to the colony’s residents. An Irish-born statesman, his vision of tolerance helped shape the foundations of religious liberty in America. His legacy reminds us that faith and civic leadership can work hand in hand
The Gun Factory Cathedral
In 1839, Irish immigrants on Staten Island transformed an abandoned gun factory in New Brighton into a house of prayer, naming it St. Peter’s. Its priests ministered tirelessly to the sick at the nearby Tompkinsville quarantine station, some sacrificing their own lives in the process. Among those shaped by this witness was James Roosevelt Bayley, nephew of Elizabeth Ann Seton, who went on to become the first Bishop of Newark and later Archbishop of Baltimore
Venerable Pierre Toussaint
Born enslaved in Haiti, Pierre Toussaint became a successful hairdresser in New York and used his wealth to aid orphans, the sick, and refugees regardless of race A daily communicant at St. Peter’s Church, his deep faith and tireless charity led to his cause for canonization. He is buried in the crypt of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Archbishop John Hughes
Known as “Dagger John” for his fierce defense of Catholic immigrants, Hughes built schools, hospitals, and orphanages to serve New York’s growing Catholic population He championed the cause of Catholic education and laid the cornerstone for the original St. Patrick’s Cathedral. His leadership shaped the Church’s role in the city for generations.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
A New York native and convert to Catholicism, Elizabeth Ann Seton founded the Sisters of Charity, the first American religious community for women. She pioneered Catholic education in the United States, establishing the parochial school system. In 1975, she became the first American-born saint canonized by the Catholic Church.
St. Peter’s Church
Founded in 1785, St. Peter’s on Barclay Street is the oldest Catholic parish in New York State It served as a refuge for Catholic immigrants and was the parish home of Venerable Pierre Toussaint. Today, it stands as a living link to the earliest days of Catholic worship in the city.
Dorothy Day
A journalist and social activist, Dorothy Day co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement in New York City during the Great Depression. She dedicated her life to serving the poor and homeless through houses of hospitality rooted in radical charity and nonviolence. Her cause for canonization is currently underway, earning her the title “Servant of God.”
This is Our Church.
Fr. Francis P. Duffy – World War I
Father Francis P. Duffy served as chaplain to the famous “Fighting 69th” regiment during World War I, ministering to soldiers under fire. Renowned for his courage and compassion, he became one of the most decorated chaplains in U.S. military history. A statue of him stands today in Times Square, honoring his legacy.
St. Isaac Jogues
A French Jesuit missionary, Isaac Jogues endured capture and torture by the Mohawk before eventually returning to evangelize among them. He was martyred in 1646 near present-day Auriesville, NY. He is honored as one of the North American Martyrs and a patron of the region’s Catholic heritage.
Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha
Known as the “Lily of the Mohawks,” Kateri Tekakwitha was born in present-day New York and converted to Catholicism despite persecution from her tribe. She lived a life of remarkable holiness, prayer, and penance. Canonized in 2012, she is the first Native American saint.
9/11 and Fr. Mychal Judge
Father Mychal Judge, a Franciscan friar and chaplain of the New York City Fire Department, rushed to the World Trade Center on the morning of September 11, 2001, to minister to first responders. After praying over a fallen firefighter inside the North Tower, he was struck and killed by debris when the South Tower collapsed, becoming the first confirmed casualty of the September 11 terrorist attacks. Known throughout the city for his tireless work with the homeless, the sick, and those struggling with addiction, Father Judge’s life and sacrifice embody the Church’s enduring presence in moments of crisis and compassion
The Civil War and the Fighting 69th
During the Civil War, New York’s Catholic community rallied around the “Fighting 69th,” an IrishAmerican regiment that fought with distinction in the Union Army’s Irish Brigade at battles including Bull Run, Antietam, and Gettysburg. Their sacrifice helped demonstrate the loyalty and patriotism of Catholic immigrants at a time when their faith was often viewed with suspicion. The regiment’s legacy endured through World War I under Father Francis Duffy and continues today, with the 69th remaining an active National Guard unit deeply tied to New York’s Catholic and Irish heritage.
Women Religious and the Sisters of Life
Throughout the archdiocese’s history, women religious orders have staffed schools, hospitals, and orphanages, shaping generations of New Yorkers. The Sisters of Life, founded by Cardinal John O’Connor in 1991, continue this legacy by caring for mothers and protecting the dignity of human life. Their ministry reflects the Church’s ongoing commitment to service.
EVENTS
Share With Your Community
Click items below for more information on each event.
Discernment Retreat with the Carmelite Sisters of the Aged and Infirm
Office of Youth Ministry | Young Adult Ministry | University Apostolate
FRIDAY, JUNE 19 – SUNDAY, JUNE 21
Lux Christi Young Adult Night at St. Bart’s
Office of Youth Ministry | Young Adult Ministry | University Apostolate
TUESDAY, JUNE 23
Young Adult Holy Hour, Mass and Social
Office of Youth Ministry | Young Adult Ministry | University Apostolate
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1
Fourth of July with the Carmelite Sisters
Office of Youth Ministry | Young Adult Ministry | University Apostolate
SATURDAY, JULY 4
Encounter School of Ministry NYC Summer Intensive
Office of Adult Discipleship and Marriage Formation
FRIDAY, JULY 24 | SATURDAY, JULY 25
Sts. Francis and Dominic: A Mysticism of the World in the World – A Contemplative Symposium
Office of Adult Discipleship and Marriage Formation
FRIDAY, JULY 24 – SUNDAY, JULY 26
EVENTS (cont.)
Share With Your Community
Click items below for more information on each event.
Young Adult Retreat: Open the Door of Your Heart
Office of Youth Ministry | Young Adult Ministry | University Apostolate
FRIDAY, AUGUST 14 – SUNDAY, AUGUST 16
The Good Newsroom
The Good Newsroom TM is the digital newsroom of the Archdiocese of New York. Follow our content at theGoodNewsroom.org, on our app, through our social media channels, or through our newly launched e-newsletter. Visit our Connect page to stay connected with us.
INITIATIVES
Building Momentum Together
Office of Adult Discipleship and Marriage Formation
Alpha Marriage Course
Run the Alpha Marriage Course at your parish. This can be a great evangelization tool to ignite marriage ministry. The Marriage Course is available in multiple languages.
More info
Encounter School of Ministry NYC
Designed and established from the heart of Encounter Ministries, this school draws from the richness of our Catholic heritage as we seek to teach, equip, and activate disciples to demonstrate the love of God through the power of the Holy Spirit in their spheres of influence. In conformity with the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church, we offer students a dynamic two-year training program designed to take you to the next level in your ministry. New cohort begins September 9!
More info
Instituto Pastoral Padre Félix Varela
Programa de formación para adultos que promueve la preparación de los católicos hispanos, y ayuda a la formación de líderes laicos para servir en nuestras parroquias y movimientos eclesiales. Para más información, llame (646) 794-3168.
Respect Life Office
End-of-Life Decision Making: Updated Booklet from NYS Bishops
With the legalization of physician-assisted suicide in New York set for this summer, the Catholic Bishops of New York State have released a revised and updated edition of their teaching booklet Now and at the Hour of Our Death: A Catholic Guide to End-of-Life Decision-Making.
The first half of the eight-page booklet, published by the New York State Catholic Conference, summarizes Church teaching on various end-of-life issues, including assisted suicide and euthanasia, ordinary vs. extraordinary treatment, and what is required regarding artificial nutrition and hydration. The second half outlines legal options for advance planning available in New York State. It is intended as a guide to help Catholics navigate difficult issues and decisions that eventually face every family.
Now and at the Hour of Our Death is available for free as a digital download . To order hardcopy booklets, email info@ nyscatholic.org or call 518.434.6195.
Youth Ministry | Young Adult Ministry | University Apostolate
Parish Youth and Young Adult Nights
Our pastoral office is hosting parish youth and young adult nights for parishes interested in starting a new youth ministry (for middle and high schoolers) and/or young adult ministry (18-35 year olds). For more info, please contact Pjetër Nilaj, Coordinator of the Office of Youth Ministry, Young Adult Ministry and University Apostolate at archny.org/young-catholics.
Youth and Young Adult Ministry Leadership Formation
Our pastoral office is hosting youth ministry and young adult ministry leadership formation for young adults interested interested in growing in their Catholic faith and leadership. For more info, please contact Pjetër Nilaj, Coordinator of the Office of Youth Ministry, Young Adult Ministry and University Apostolate at archny.org/young-catholics.
AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE
Time to Step Outside and Enjoy God’s Creation Together
World Refugee Day Celebration with the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music
Catholic Charities Community Services is part of the New York City Immigrant Resettlement Initiative which is partnering with the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music for a World Refugee Day Celebration, coinciding with the annual Seventh Heaven Festival. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a special performance at 11:30 AM.
Seventh Heaven Fair | Seventh Ave., New York, NY
SUNDAY, JUNE 21 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
New Wine Married Couples Ministry
“New Wine” is a chance for married couples who have been married for any length of time (whether or not you have children) to come together; enjoy wine and the word of Jesus; and strengthen your relationship, marriage, and family life. This will be a time for building friendships with other married couples, learning from one another, and creating a deeper relationship with your spouse and God.
Parlors at St. Vincent’s | 869 Lexington Ave., New York, NY
FRIDAY, JUNE 26 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cardinal Spellman Community Center Day
Catholic Charities of New York’s Cardinal Spellman Center has been serving Lower East Side families in need for over 60 years. Join us for a fun-filled block party with free food, music, workshops ranging from double-dutch to basketball, resource tables, and much more.
Cardinal Spellman Center | 137 E. Second St., New York, NY
TUESDAY, JUNE 30 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Mass Honoring Venerable Pierre Toussaint
The Catholic Charities of New York Junior Board cordially invites you to celebrate the life of a man who transformed the heart of New York through tireless devotion and charity.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral | Fifth Ave. between 50 th and 51st Sts., New York, NY
TUESDAY, JUNE 30 | 7:00 PM
First Friday All Night Vigil
Please join us for our July vigil, in prayerful honor of the Precious Blood of Jesus.
Our Lady of Good Counsel | 230 E. 90 th St., New York, NY
FRIDAY, JULY 3 – SATURDAY, JULY 4 | 8:00 PM – 5:00 AM
Christmas in July with the Catholic Charities Junior Board
The Catholic Charities Junior Board is excited to invite you to Christmas in July. All proceeds support the St. Nicholas Project, a year-round initiative that provides winter essentials and critical supplies to more than 9,000 individuals in need. This year’s Christmas in July is at The Ivory Peacock, an elegant cocktail bar in Flatiron with a stunning exclusive VIP lounge.
The Ivory Peacock | 38 W. 26th St., New York, NY
THURSDAY, JULY 16 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
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