A Symbol of Hope to Shine Brightly Over South Brooklyn for All

On December 12th, 2015 one of Brooklyn’s most visible churches, Sacred Hearts – St. Stephen, will turn on a giant five foot star atop its two hundred and ten foot tall steeple to mark the coming Christmas Season. The church steeple is seen by thousands of drivers who travel daily along the BQE – Gowanus trench north of the Gov. Hugh Carey Tunnel. The Steeple is also the only church steeple still visible from the Brooklyn Bridge and numerous other points along New York Harbor. The Christmas Star and four strands of LED lights each over two hundred feet in length will grace the 137 year old facade of the gothic church until the end of the Christmas Season in January.

Under the direction of the Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Guy Massie, the tradition, begun in the 1950s, of this time honored seasonal display has been revived for the fourth year in a row after more than ten years without it. In the aftermath of Super Storm Sandy, Msgr. Massie returned the star in hopes that it would be a symbol of hope for all, not just Christian Catholics. The lighting ceremony which will be conducted on the steps of the church will explore Jewish, Islamic and Christian traditions surrounding the symbol of the star. The service will be conducted in English, Italian and Spanish. The ceremony will also embrace the astronomical and numerological significance given to stars. This year both the Adult and Children’s Choirs of the parish will entertain spectators with both religious and secular Christmas songs.

Parish Pastor, Msgr. Guy Massie, has said, “lighting the Star of Hope this year is just another thing that makes Brooklyn so special. This is a place where everything is celebrated and everyone can find a home. Our parish community displays this star as a reminder to all that in this big city the light of the star shines for the hope of peace found on the streets of our neighborhoods.”

Following the lighting, refreshments will be served in the church lobby for all to enjoy.

All are welcome!