Our prayers and best wishes are with the Pastor, Fr. Mariusz Zochowski, and all parishioners of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Parish in Perth Amboy, NJ. It is heart breaking that this beautiful church was destroyed by the fire on Monday October 28th.
I helped Fr. Mario by celebrating Holy Masses in that church and also attended various NY/NJ Seniorate liturgies such as our annual Corpus Christi Holy Mass with procession. The national Mission and Evangelism workshop was also held there. The people of that parish are friendly and have a deep faith. Fr. Mariusz and some parishioners dedicated countless hours to renovate and remodel the church, rectory, and the parish hall. On Monday evening October 28th I witnessed many people praying in the front of the demolished church with tears in their eyes and broken hearts. It was difficult not to share their feelings. Bishop Bernard Nowicki came to express his support, and together with Fr. Mario inspired those gathered with their prayers of hope that the parish will be rebuilt through the dedication of its people. It will be rebuilt by the people of faith who are the “living stones of the church.” I need to mention that the Holy Eucharist, the consecrated bread – the real presence of Jesus was unharmed as well as the processional cross. This is indeed a sign of the presence of the risen Lord among us and in us. A wonderful start of a new beginning.
At the request of Fr. Mariisz and his parishioners present on Monday along with Deacon Konicki, serving our diocese, we prepared a GoFundMe site so people of good will could offer donations online to help the parish of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in this very difficult time. You can also donate by mail to:
Ss. Cyril and Methodius Parish
600 Jacques St.
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
Thank you and God bless your generosity.
Fr. Joseph