The Link
The newsletter for The Brooklyn Oratory Parishes

"I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection between persons."
-St. John Henry Cardinal Newman, C.O.
 The Brooklyn Oratory Parishes
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Boniface
January 11, 2022
The Synod on Synodality - Preparing for the Parish Sessions
At both parishes on Sundays January 16 and 23 (after the 10 am at ABVM and the 11:15 at St B) and Saturday January 22 after the 5 pm Mass at ABVM, we will hold sessions to engage the process.

A synod is an assembly. In a church context, it is a meeting of believers to consider matters of doctrine, administration, or application. There have been many throughout the Church’s history. They can be local, regional or, as in this case, worldwide.

Traditionally, worldwide synods begin with broad based consultation and conclude with a synod of bishops from around the world gathered in Rome. A final report with recommendations for action follows.

The focus of the 2023 synod is less about content and more about method. The method is a particular way the Church discerns the way ahead. It is summarized by the term SYNODALITY. The expression that Pope Francis has used in his preparatory document to describe this process is “journeying together.”

The premise is that all have been given the Spirit of God through Baptism (and strengthened in Confirmation) and that the Spirit “speaks” to all of us. By being attentive to that Spirit we can discern what God is asking of us as Church in this present age. The hope is that by every member of the Church coming together in mutual listening and consultation that the voice of the Holy Spirit will be made known.

It is vital therefore that every member has a chance to speak and to be heard. Pope Francis has asked that we be attentive, in particular to the voices on the margins, those who are “usually not at the center of the conversation.”

Synodal Path questions for reflection for listening sessions:
  • How do we promote a free and authentic communication with the community of the Church and its organizations?
  • How do we listen to one another and listen to the Holy Spirit?
  • How do we encourage openness in our society to those who are poor and living on the margins?
  • What kind of change can build up the church so that the church speaks to the needs of the 21st century?
  • What do you hope for the church?
  • What is it that you want to tell Pope Francis that is important to you? What do you most want for your children through their Catholic faith formation?
  • What causes you (if anything) sadness about the Church?

Fr. Michael Callaghan, c.o. and Fr. Mark Lane, c.o.
Black Catholic History Month
The Diocese of Brooklyn is hosting its Annual Prayer Service commemorating the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monday, January 17, 2022 at Our Lady of Victory Church, 583 Throop Ave, Brooklyn, beginning at 12:00 noon. Father John McKenzie, Associate Pastor, National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica in the Archdiocese of Detroit will be the homilist.

The Diocese of Brooklyn Annual Black History Month Mass of Thanksgiving which will take place on Sunday, February 20, 2022 at Immaculate Conception Parish in Jamaica Queens beginning at 4:00PM. His Eminence, Wilton Cardinal Gregory, Archbishop of Washington will be the Main Celebrant and Homilist.
Sacristan Position at St. Boniface
St Boniface is seeking temporary help for a sacristan position - couple hours each day Monday to Thursday and several hours each Sunday. Email Fr Mark for more details or to express interest mlane@oratorychurch.org or call the office - 718-875-2096 x 11.
Clothes for College Students Needed
In collaboration with St. Francis College, our Oratory Newman Ministry is hosting a collection of Professional clothing for college students who will be involved in interviews for jobs and internships and career related events.

You are invited to contribute lightly used professional attire for women and men to support students with limited resources to grow confidence as they prepare for the upcoming spring 2022 recruiting season.

Items being collected include professional Blazers/Cardigans, Purses, Blouses, Dress Shirts, Briefcases, Skirts, Dresses, Skirt Suits, Dress Coats, Stockings (new), Pants/Slacks, Scarves, Pant Suits, Dress Shoes, Ties, Women's Suits and Men's Suits.

Please be sure that the clothing is clean and in good shape. Please no business casual items. Thank you!

We will collect the following items at Masses at both St. Boniface and Assumption on the weekend of January 29–30, 2022
Baptism Preparation for Parents
If you are expecting your first child or are new to our communities and would like to have your child baptized in our parishes, please register for the next Baptism Preparation Session which is offered through Zoom at 7pm. Send your inquiry to: info@oratorychurch.org and we will follow up to register you and send you the print materials.

Baptism Dates: 2/27, 4/24, 5/15
Baptism Preparation Dates: 2/9, 3/9, 5/11
Mass Intentions
If you would like to request a mass for someone living or deceased, mass intentions are available for the weeks or months ahead. Email info@oratorychurch.org. The offering is $20. Please pay by using Pushpay or by mailing a check to 64 Middagh St. Brooklyn, NY 11201. Please include the name of the deceased or a special intention request.
Oratory Young Men’s Group
In its ninth year, the Oratory Young Men’s Group (newly rebranded as OMG) allows young men (21-35) in the Oratory parishes and beyond to connect for prayer, service, and social activities. If interested in learning more, contact Fr Anthony, andreassi.anthony@gmail.com.
Candle Offering
If you would like to make an offering for the weekly (8 day) sanctuary candle at either parish please email info@oratorychurch.org. Eight Day candle - $10 and Votive candles (1.00) can also be arranged on your behalf.
The Brooklyn Oratory Parishes 
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Boniface
Roman Catholic Communities in
Downtown Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights
Both parishes operate from one office:

64 Middagh Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.875.2096
718.625.1161