Seniors in Good Company at St. Joseph’s Celebration

Joan Cusumano began attending Catholic Charities of Long Island’s Oceanside Senior Community Center at St. Anthony’s parish eight months ago. That decision became “one of the best things that happened to me” following the death of her beloved husband of 61 years, Joseph, almost nine years ago. “I’ve met a lot of people that I’ve become close with.”

“From the first day I enjoyed it,” she explained. “Every day is something different, with trips like this.”

Cusumano was speaking about the bus rides transporting her and many others to CCLI’s annual Mass and reception honoring St. Joseph, patron saint of the aging.

The May 14 celebration, attended by more than 300 seniors that participate in Catholic Charities programs across Nassau and Suffolk counties, took place at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre.

Auxiliary Bishop Luis M. Romero, M.Id., who celebrated the noontime Mass, told the assembled seniors he was “in communion” with them since he will celebrate his 71st birthday next month.

The bishop encouraged the seniors to pray to “St. Joseph, our patron, for peace in our lives.” He thanked the seniors for their long lives, and offered gratitude to Catholic Charities of Long Island for taking of our elders through its programs and services.

After the liturgy, the gathering moved to the festively decorated Msgr. Kelly Parish Center, just steps from the cathedral. Bishop Romero offered grace before the luncheon, as the seniors sat at tables with members of their own centers, senior housing programs and parish senior clubs.

The air of conviviality was boosted when music played by the John Walters group brought many seniors onto the dance floor. The duo expertly mixing waltzes, faster tunes and even a kick-line number. The seniors also enjoyed the chance at winning raffles.

Many Catholic Charities employees and volunteers celebrated the seniors by creating the fun atmosphere. Leading the way were Kim Parbst, director of senior services, and MaryAnn Russo, administrative secretary for senior services. Assisting considerably were Jay Korth, director of housing and legal affairs, and Kerry Cleary, housing specialist, who coordinated the day’s transportation. Many others with senior programs and from CCLI’s administrative offices also lent a hand.

In post-Communion remarks at Mass, Michael E. Smith, CEO of Catholic Charities of Long Island, received loud applause when he mentioned the election of the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV, just the week before. Smith stood just steps from an image of the new pontiff placed in the sanctuary.

Smith thanked the seniors for remaining on Long Island, where many have raised children and grandchildren, and for being a vital part of the “Catholic Charities community.”

“God bless you and thanks for all you do for our beautiful Long Island home,” he concluded. “In this Jubilee Year of Hope, you are truly an inspiration.”

From the address of Pope Francis at the Meeting with the Elderly in 2014: “The elderly who have the faith are like trees that continue to bear fruit.”