Diocesan Float in Caribbean Parade

The Diocese of Brooklyn will once again be a presence in the West Indian American Carnival Day Parade on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 3.

A diocesan float, sponsored by Fidelis Care in collaboration with the Catholic Migration Office, will be part of the celebration along Eastern Pkwy. Music will be provided on the float by members of the Harmony Steele Pan Band.

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio will head a delegation of diocesan officials on the float. They will include: Bishop Guy Sansaricq, Vicar for Black Catholic Concerns; Msgr. Ronald T. Marino, diocesan Vicar for Ethnic and Migrant Apostolates; Father Caleb Buchanan, co-coordinator of the West Indian Apostolate; and Father Andrew Struzzieri, pastor of St. Matthew’s Church.

Beginning at 9:30 a.m., more than 1,000 Catholic faithful and others are expected to join Bishop DiMarzio, who will commence the diocesan participation by celebrating a Mass of thanksgiving at St. Matthew’s Church, 1123 Eastern Pkwy., at the intersection of Utica Ave.

Following the celebration of Mass, more than 800 members of the laity representing the diverse West Indian/Caribbean population coming together from several Catholic parishes throughout Brooklyn and Queens, will stride along Eastern Pkwy. accompanying their bishop and the diocesan float.

Fidelis Care is the New York State Catholic Health Plan. It offers affordable, quality healthcare coverage for New York State residents through the Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus, and Medicaid programs. The non-profit health plan serves more than 270,000 members in 37 counties across New York State and offers a Medicare Advantage program to eligible residents in 22 counties.

The Catholic Migration Office, an agency of the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens, has been providing assistance to immigrants and refugees from around the world since 1971. The agency offers educational services, free information in accessing healthcare services and benefits, immigration legal assistance, job training, pastoral services and advocates on behalf of immigrant tenants. These services are available to all immigrants, regardless of race, religion, or beliefs.

Msgr. Marino said, “This is an important opportunity for us to join our shepherd, Bishop DiMarzio, to be with our West Indian/Caribbean sisters and brothers in marking the 40th anniversary of this grand parade. It is important for us to be present and represent the Catholic Church at this great gathering of people, who are visiting our area or now call Brooklyn and Queens their home. The presence of the Catholic faithful will be a significant testament to the New Evangelization efforts of our diocese and our ability to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to this festive event.”

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