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Queens is the most
multi-cultural and multi-ethnic of the boroughs in New York. More than one
hundred languages or dialects are spoken in Queens. This is reflected in our
thirty-two Episcopal congregations and the ministry in our Archdeaconry. In
addition to our "Anglo" brothers and sisters, Queens does have a
very large Asian population, as well as a large Hispanic community, a huge
Caribbean presence and an ever increasing membership from the continent of
Africa. We find this diversity a great blessing and do try to celebrate it as
a church. Potluck suppers in our parishes are always exciting. Just as
exiting are such observances as Harvest. Our Archdeacon has been involved in
multi-cultural ministry for the last seven years, having assisted his
predecessor, Archdeacon Roper Shamhart, in this ministry. The clergy of the
Archdeaconry also reflect the multi-ethnic nature of our borough. We do have
American born priests. We also have many Caribbean born priests as well as
Asian and Hispanic. The priest who ministers to our Nigerian community comes
in from Newark, New Jersey, but there are several Haitian born priests
available to celebrate mass in Creole. The newest ministry in Queens is a
ministry to Filipinos who are fortunate enough to have a Filipino born priest
residing here in Queens. This year, two parishes
in Queens will be celebrating their Tercentenary. St. George's, Flushing, and
Grace Church, Jamaica. While we rejoice with them, we also give thanks for
all past benefactors and parishioners. Here in Queens we can
look to the future with confidence. Queens is a port of entry into the United
States since there are two major airports here. As a result new immigrants
are always arriving and settling here. There continues to be potential for
evangelism and new ministry. It is for us to continue to accept the challenge
to make disciples of all nations. The
Venerable Bernard O. D. Young, Archdeacon |
