Bishop addresses the diversity of Long Island

Before the Mass at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre, Bishop Barres told reporters how Pope Francis’ teachings were relevant to Long Islanders. For example, he had a “heart for our wonderful immigrants and a great passion for serving them,” as the Holy Family themselves were refugees.

“We know that so well on Long Island," Barres said. "There are over 500,000 beautiful Hispanics that we serve in our 136 parishes so faithfully, our wonderful Haitian communities, and how diverse Long Island and our country is now. We celebrate that unity and diversity from the spirit of Catholic communion and mission.”