DIOCESE OF BROOKLYN TO CELEBRATE 10th ANNUAL MASS OF HOPE AND HEALING

Bishop Robert Brennan to lead an evening of prayer for victim-survivors of abuse

The Diocese of Brooklyn, which includes Queens, will celebrate its 10^th annual Mass of Hope & Healing on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Mary’s Nativity Church, 46-02 Parsons Boulevard, in Flushing, Queens.

Bishop Robert Brennan will serve as main celebrant and homilist at the Mass, an opportunity for the Diocese to join in prayer for victim-survivors of sexual abuse and those affected by the trauma of abuse. The annual liturgy offers a space to acknowledge pain, to grieve the harm done, and to journey together toward healing.

“For ten years, we have gathered at this Mass not to close a chapter, but to keep a promise,” said Bishop Brennan. “To every survivor: we see you, we believe you, and we will keep walking with you. We come before the Lord with sorrow for the ways the Church failed you, and with hope in the healing only He can bring.”

Support for Survivors

The Diocese’s Office of Victim Assistance Ministry offers supportive initial contact and ongoing outreach, therapy referrals, and pastoral resources for victim-survivors of sexual abuse.

This pastoral care is part of the Diocese’s broader commitment to preventing abuse and protecting children. That commitment includes a Zero Tolerance policy, permanently removing from ministry any clergy member credibly accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. It also includes initial, and ongoing background checks, for all Diocesan employees and volunteers, as well as age-appropriate abuse-awareness training for children and adults.

Anyone who has been a victim of clergy sexual abuse, is encouraged to report it to law enforcement or to the Diocesan Toll-Free Reporting Line at 1-888-634-4499. All calls are forwarded directly to law enforcement officials.

Members of the media are welcome and are asked to confirm attendance by email.

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