Bishop Robert Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn that includes Queens, presided over a Mass of Rededication last night at St. Edmund the Martyr Church in Breezy Point, thirteen months after the church was engulfed in flames.
Last year, on Holy Saturday, April 19, 2025, an electrical fire in the back of the church caused extensive damage to the house of worship, which had been decorated to celebrate Easter the following day. More than 100 firefighters from the FDNY and local volunteer fire departments responded, and their efforts are credited with saving the church structure, allowing for its rebuilding.
“For sure, we were overwhelmed with sadness, sorrow, grief, and confusion last year on Holy Saturday. To all of the firefighters, thank you for saving our church. Over the last year, we have rebuilt the walls, the windows, and this beautiful church, recognizing that our strength comes from the Lord,” said Bishop Robert Brennan.
Bishop Brennan blessed the walls of the church, and the people gathered at the beginning of the Mass. The Rite of Dedication included the Litany of Saints, the prayer of dedication, the anointing of the altar and walls of the church with Sacred Chrism, the incensing of the altar and church, and the lighting of the altar candles in celebration of the Eucharist.
Father Michael L. Gelfant is the pastor of Blessed Trinity Parish, which includes St. Edmund.
VIDEO LINK: https://vimeo.com/1196964716
The video and photos attached are courtesy of John Quaglione/Diocese of Brooklyn.
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MEDIA CONTACTS:
Adriana Rodriguez
(646) 241-9805
adrodriguez@diobrook.org
John Quaglione
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jquaglione@diobrook.org
