From Pentecost to Memorial Day, United in Prayer and Hope

Lumen Christi Gala to Support the Future of St. Mary’s Cathedral

For more than 165 years, the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption has stood as a beacon of faith for our Diocese of Fall River. First welcoming parishioners in 1856 and serving as the Mother Church of the Diocese since its establishment in 1904, St. Mary’s Cathedral remains our spiritual home where liturgies, celebrations, and moments of prayer continue to unite our family of faith from across the Diocese.

On June 3, we will celebrate the 5th Lumen Christi Cathedral Gala at White’s of Westport. The Gala is both a celebration of the Cathedral’s enduring legacy and an important effort to support the ongoing restoration of this beloved sacred space. All proceeds from the event will help fund critical repairs and renovations to ensure that the Light of Christ continues to shine forth from the Cathedral for generations to come.

Over the past four years, support from the Lumen Christi Cathedral Gala has made significant restoration projects possible. Last year’s Gala raised more than $333,000, helping fund the rebuilding of the Cathedral’s clerestory stained-glass window frames and extensive repairs within Our Lady’s Chapel. Work is now underway to repair the Cathedral bell tower.

I am so pleased to share that this year we will present the Gala’s Luminary Award to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn III. An active parishioner of Holy Name Parish in Fall River, District Attorney Quinn has long supported Diocesan initiatives and has played an important role in the success of the Lumen Christi Cathedral Gala since its inception, serving as the inaugural emcee and as a member of the planning committee each year. I look forward to honoring him with the award in recognition of his years of public service and commitment to our Diocese.

Along with raising funds for repairs, the Lumen Christi Cathedral Gala also calls attention to the Cathedral’s special role within the life of our Diocese. Consider all the significant diocesan liturgies and events that take place there, like priestly ordinations, the Chrism Mass, annual Masses for peace and in celebration of wedding anniversaries, special prayer services, and more. It is truly a special, sacred place where we come together as one Diocesan Church. For more information about attending or supporting the Gala, or to learn more about the Cathedral restoration, click here.

Come, Holy Spirit!

This weekend we will celebrate Pentecost. Pentecost reminds us that the Holy Spirit continues to move through the Church, calling us to live with courage, faith, and hope. As the disciples were sent forth to proclaim the Gospel, may we too be renewed in spirit and inspired to share Christ’s love with the world. May the fire of the Holy Spirit strengthen us to be faithful witnesses of Christ in our homes, parishes, and communities.

Honoring the Fallen on Memorial Day

Memorial Day invites us to pause in gratitude and remembrance for the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom carries both a cost and a responsibility such as working for peace, upholding human dignity, and caring for one another. As we gather with family and friends this holiday weekend, may we also remember those who mourn loved ones lost in service and pray for all who continue to serve our country with courage and honor.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha