On Saturday, October 14th, the former Redemptorist parish of St. Martin of Tours in Bethpage, NY, came alive with heartfelt joy as it celebrated the opening Mass in commemoration of its 100th Anniversary.

This momentous occasion beautifully echoed the very first Eucharistic celebration on October 14, 1923. Heartfelt gratitude is extended to Fr. Kevin MacDonald for joining us in this meaningful celebration. Bishop Andrzej Zglejszewski presided over the service, with Fr. Christopher Costigan, pastor, Fr. Bright Appiagyei-Boakye, Associate Pastor, Fr. Kevin, Deacon Thomas Hennessy, Redemptorist Oblate and Associate, Deacon Christopher Quinn, and Deacon Ronald Lacsa also sharing in the celebration.

The 100th Anniversary celebrations continued the next day at each Sunday Mass. We were truly blessed to have Fr. Denis Sweeney preside over our noon Mass, which also celebrated the Feast Day of St. Gerard Majella.



Following the Sunday noon Mass, our parishioners and friends gathered for a special ritual honoring St. Gerard Majella. This moving ceremony included the blessings of St. Gerard/Our Lady of Perpetual Help medals and prayer cards, as well as individual blessings with a relic for those seeking pregnancy, adoption, or a safe delivery. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fr. Denis for also bestowing the individual blessings with St. Gerard’s relic.

We eagerly look forward to the continuation of these joyous celebrations. The festivities will continue throughout the coming year, culminating in the recognition of the 100th anniversary of the dedication of our church on November 9, 1924. Together, we look to honor our rich history, cherish the present moment, and embrace a future filled with the spirit of the Redeemer and a strong sense of community here at St. Martin’s.