After serving the Dyker Heights community for more than 100 years, St. Ephrem’s Parish has left its mark on the Brooklyn — and now the city at large.
The intersection of Bay Ridge Parkway and Fort Hamilton Parkway was co-named St. Ephrem’s Way on Sunday, May 22, to commemorate the church and Catholic academy’s centennial anniversary.
“It was a beautiful Sunday morning to honor St. Ephrem — a place, a church, a parish that has truly given so much to our community and to everyone who has ever walked through those doors,” said Councilmember Justin Brannan, who pushed for and saw the street co-naming come to pass in the Council. “We’re reminded that a place of worship is so much more than just brick, marble and mortar. It’s about the people and the exponential impact of the good works and deeds of the parishioners that really makes it special.”
“St. Ephrem Roman Catholic Church has been here 100 years, and we wish it hundreds more,” Brannan went on. “A much deserved honor.”
St. Ephrem Parish was founded in 1921, and has since educated tens of thousands of students, hosted numerous social and community events and participated in food donations, clothing drives and other charitable causes. Its Catholic Academy currently serves students from pre-K through eighth grade.
The co-naming ceremony was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic, and a special mass marking the parish’ 100th anniversary was held in October 2021.
On Sunday, Father Robert Adamo, pastor at St. Ephrem, blessed the new street sign.
“We are grateful to God on this happy occasion, and we celebrate our centennial,” said Father Adamo. “Our presence in this community for the past 100 years. As we reflect on our church, our prayer, and our legacy, our hearts are filled with gratitude.”
