The faithful of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson brightened the holidays for those in need during its annual Bethlehem in Paterson Christmas charity event on Dec. 15.
More than 2,000 toys, 2,000 new winter jackets, and numerous hats, gloves, and scarves were given to needy people.
Msgr. Geno Sylva, St. John’s rector and diocesan vicar for special projects, joined more than 250 volunteers, including St. John’s Knights of Columbus; friends, and; supporters of the cathedral in this act of charity and evangelization.
Paterson Police and Fire Departments, the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department, the New York division of the FBI, and Knights of Columbus from other councils assisted the cathedral community with Bethlehem in Paterson. Many local parishes contributed toys or monetary donations.
The cathedral’s Knights organized a Winter Wonderland on DeGrasse Street behind St. John’s. Guests received a warm welcome with shouts of “Merry Christmas” under one of the tents on the street. Then, they received toys, winter coats, hats, gloves, and scarves. Afterward, guests visited Santa and enjoyed hot cocoa and cookies. They also were invited to ride on a train set up on the street.
Bethlehem in Paterson occurred all day on Sunday, starting after 8:30 a.m. Mass. Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney celebrated the 1 p.m. Mass in St. John’s with Msgr. Sylva concelebrating and visited the Christmas event.
“The economy is tough for everyone. We don’t know what gifts these kids are getting this Christmas. We are giving them the joy and dignity of receiving a Christmas gift. We hope one day, they will realize that the greatest Christmas gift is Christ,” said Edward Escobar, who coordinated Bethlehem in Paterson with Pilar Pedraza. “We are trying to be beacons of light on St. John’s block of mercy.”
— Michael Wojcik
BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI
