Faith in Action: Housing, Education, and Renewal 

Restoring Hope in New Bedford: The Reopening of Talbot Apartments

On August 20, I had the privilege of blessing the newly renovated Talbot Apartments in New Bedford, a project that represents both renewal and hope for our community. Nearly three years ago, a fire forced residents from their homes and left the historic Queen Anne-style building uninhabitable. Thanks to the work of so many, this 124-year-old landmark was restored and will once again provide safe, affordable housing for those in need.

The $3.5 million renovation, led by Community Action for Better Housing (CABH), a Diocese of Fall River ministry, was made possible through the support of city partners, community organizations, and generous contributors. While preserving the historic nature of the building, the project also included modernization for 26 single-occupancy units with kitchens, bathrooms, and accessible options for residents with disabilities. Talbot Apartments is so much more than a building. It is a home where those in need can find hope for their futures. 

As property values increase, affordable housing remains a challenge in our region. The work of CABH  to maintain over 150 housing units across New Bedford and Fall River is critical to providing affordable and decent housing. The reopening of the Talbot Apartments demonstrates how faith, service, and community can come together to solve local challenges. 

I pray that those who will call Talbot Apartments home will feel the peace and belonging that reflect the heart of the Gospel.

Fire, Peace, and Mission: Feast of the Holy Spirit

This past weekend, we celebrated the Great Feast of the Holy Ghost  in Fall River, a tradition rooted in Pentecost and the coming of the Spirit upon the apostles. The celebration of this Portuguese tradition goes back several years showcasing faith and culture, bringing thousands together each August with Mass, processions, parades, music, and food. I celebrated a Mass in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday as part of it. During my homily,in reflecting on this feast, I shared three words that capture its meaning for us today: fire, peace, and mission.

Fire

The Spirit descended on the apostles in tongues of fire, a symbol of transformation, purification, and renewal. Fire has the power to change everything it touches, and so too does the Holy Spirit within us. Jesus said, “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!” We are called to let the Spirit ignite our hearts, transforming us, purifying us, and filling us with zeal to live our faith with courage and conviction.

Peace

When Jesus appeared to his disciples after the Resurrection, His first words were: “Peace be with you.” (These were also the first words shared by Pope Leo XIV when introduced to the world for the first time.) Jesus breathed the Spirit upon them, making peace a gift directly linked with the Holy Spirit. In our world today, so marked by conflict, division, and violence, the call to be instruments of peace is urgent. As Saint Paul VI reminded us, “If you want peace, work for justice.” Each of us has a part to play, in our families, our communities, our country, and our world, to foster peace by committing ourselves to justice and reconciliation.

Mission

Finally, Jesus entrusted His disciples with a mission: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” Empowered by the Spirit, they were sent to proclaim the Good News and draw others closer to God. We too, through our Baptism and Confirmation, share in this mission. The Spirit sends us into the world to be active disciples who witness to God’s love, invite others to faith, and work to transform the world.

Photos courtesy of Grandes Festas Do Divino Espírito Santo Da Nova Inglaterra

Running with Purpose: Team FACE at the Falmouth Road Race

This August, Team FACE (the Foundation to Advance Catholic Education) once again laced up their running shoes to participate in the Falmouth Road Race, joining thousands of others in this annual tradition. What makes their effort so special is that they ran not only for the love of running, but also for the love of Catholic education in our Diocese. Comprising Team Face was Fr. Matthew Laird, pastor at St. Ann’s Parish in Raynham; Jane Robin, Catholic Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts and daughter Cassandra Robin, parishioners at St. John the Evangelist in Pocasset; and Dan Briand of BayCoast Bank and parishioner at St. Anthony St. Rita in Mattapoisett.

Team FACE raised funds that directly support scholarships for children attending our Catholic schools. Their commitment, whether running the seven miles in Falmouth or completing the challenge in their own neighborhoods, reminds us that when we come together, every step can make a difference.

A Prayerful Start to the New Year

As a new school year begins across our Diocese, I offer my prayers for all students, teachers, staff, and parents. Their collective sacrifices ensure the children in our Catholic schools are provided an excellent faith-based education. To our students, may this be a year filled with curiosity, growth, and joy as you develop your gifts and deepen your faith. To our teachers and staff, I extend my gratitude for your dedication to guiding and supporting young people in both their learning and spiritual journey.

To our parents and families, thank you for the sacrifices you make and the encouragement you give each day. Your role in nurturing your children’s education and faith is vital, and together with our schools, you help form the next generation of compassionate leaders and passionate disciples. May the Holy Spirit bless this new academic year with wisdom, peace, and hope for all.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha