Coney Island
Holy consecration
What a Christmas gift! After three long years, the destruction from Hurricane Sandy is finally behind the congregation of the Shrine Church of Our Lady of Solace in Coney Island. The repairs were completed and the altar re-dedicated in front of a packed house of parishioners and members of the Knights of Columbus Council 14360, as Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio delivered blessings on the historic occasion on Dec. 20.
The church was not spared when the storm of the century ravaged its inner sanctum, creating havoc and damaging the floors, pews, and rectory. Good samaritans helped get the rebuilding process started, including Knights of Columbus Council 14360 and St. Matthew’s Parish in Connecticut, whose parishioners traveled the Belt Parkway multiple times to help deliver supplies and gifts.
The Mass included the spreading of the holy chrism — perfumed oil — across five crosses on the altar representing Jesus’ five crucifixion wounds, in addition to other prayers officially consecrating the altar and statues. Council members presented the parish with a new chalice and a letter of best wishes from Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of the Diocese of Bridgeport to honor the occasion.
Connecticut district master Charles Sullivan and his chief of staff Joe Duplessie dressed in full Knights regalia for the sacred rites. Grand Knight George Ribellino lauded the congregation’s perseverance, first under Rev. Armando Palmieri and now under Rev. Shiju Chittattukara.
“I am so proud of the parish and the faith their parishioners have,” he said.
Shrine Church of Our Lady of Solace [2866 W. 17th St. at Surf Avenue in Coney Island, (718) 266–1612].
