A crusading clergyman who “left his mark of love” on a legion of worshippers and a string of parishes, was feted with platinum words, distinguished awards and a sumptuous banquet dinner when the community hailed the pastor emeritus of Most Precious Blood Church, Rev. Vincent Termine, for 65 years of service to the faithful.
Rev. Termine, who presided over Most Precious Blood, 70 Bay 47th Street, for 27 years − helping bring it back from the brink of collapse – was honored for his priesthood during a celebration at El Caribe Country Club, 5945 Strickland Avenue.
After closing the church when meandering fresh water streams beneath it threatened its structure, Rev. Termine relocated his congregation directly across the street to Most Precious Blood School, where with support from the Rosarian and Holy Name societies, and the school’s PTA and annual fundraisers, he was able to raise enough money for a new house of worship, which was built in 1975.
The beloved spiritual leader, who was presented with a proclamation by State Senator Marty Golden and dinner chair Mario Caldarera, began his priesthood at Saint Michael⁄Saint Edward’s Church in Fort Greene at the age of 24, acting as chaplain for Brooklyn and Cumberland hospitals, and later ministering inmates at Raymond Street Jail.
