We pray, O gracious Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that we all may be one as you are one. In your community of complete unity, we have our beginning and our end. To you we pray, asking for the gift of visible unity among all who believe in your Christ.
Grant to us, O Lord, a new Spirit of love and solidarity, that we may proclaim your good news to all of creation.
Excerpted from the USCCB
Celebrating the People and Parishes
of the Archdiocese of New York
From city streets to small towns and quiet valleys, the parishes of the Archdiocese of New York reflect the vibrant and diverse life of the Church. United in Faith is a yearlong invitation to celebrate how our Catholic community lives, worships, and witnesses to the Gospel—everywhere and every day.
This campaign shines a light on parish life across all corners of our archdiocese—from bustling boroughs to quiet hamlets—and invites you to share your story.
Christina’s Story
When I reflect on why my parish is special, my heart fills with deep gratitude for St. Joseph–St. Thomas, St. John Neumann Parish on Staten Island. This parish is not merely the physical space where I attend Mass, it is my home. It is where I receive spiritual nourishment, where I am known by name, and where my faith is strengthened as I continue to fall more deeply in love with the Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. Recently, we had our first Corpus Christi procession, and it was a beautiful and memorable experience, that I eagerly await to take part in again next year.
We live in a world that is often hostile to the truths taught by the Catholic Church, but this parish has become a refuge. Here, the Gospel is proclaimed with courage and conviction, grounded in holy fear of the Lord. I come to Mass not for a fleeting moment of inspiration, but to encounter what cannot be found anywhere else in the world, the Living God. Jesus Christ is truly present in the Most Blessed Sacrament, and it is the offering of simple bread and wine that He comes to gift us with eternal life in Him. When we receive the Eucharist in a state of grace, in a worthy manner before the altar, we grow in holiness and union with Christ.
It is a blessing to belong to a parish led by a pastor who truly embodies the words of St. John Vianney: “When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Rev. Eric Rapaglia is not a priest who simply goes through the motions, he is a spiritual father who genuinely cares for the salvation of our souls. This is evident in the way he celebrates Mass, with profound reverence, deep devotion, and a love for Christ that upholds the beauty and sacredness of the liturgy. It is also heard in his homilies, which are marked by sincerity, calling us to holiness, challenging us when needed, and encouraging us to live the truth without compromise.
Being a member of this parish has revealed to me the true meaning of belonging to a spiritual family. From the moment of Baptism, Christ invites each of us into His Mystical Body, not to journey alone, but to grow alongside others in faith. This parish has been a profound source of grace in my life. During the difficult times in my life the parish community of St. Joseph – St. Thomas, St. John Neumann has provided me with healing, strength, and hope. Through the sacraments, authentic community, and the leadership of a pastor along with our dedicated parochial vicars who are deeply committed to the salvation of souls, I have drawn closer to Christ in a way that is both lasting and life-giving.
If you are seeking a place to belong, a place where your faith can deepen and flourish, I wholeheartedly invite you to become a part of our parish. Come home.
How to Get Involved
Submit a Story
Tell us what makes your parish special.
Who inspires your faith? What traditions bring your community together? How do you live out the Gospel in your neighborhood?
Use the message portal below to send us a story, photo, or brief reflection. We’ll feature submissions regularly on this page and in our digital platforms.
Find an Event
The Church of St. Francis Xavier (46 West 16th Street) invites you to a Mass for Care of Creation on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 6:30 PM, reception to follow.
You can also attend a Jubilee Pilgrimage of Hope for Creation on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from St. Francis Xavier Church to Thomas Berry Place.
For more information about the Archdiocese of New York’s Care of Creation initiative, click here.
Click here to view more events in the Archdiocese of New York!
Share on Social
Join the conversation by posting your story on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #UnitedInFaith. We’re highlighting parishes and voices throughout the year—yours could be next.
Download the Digital Prayer Card
Stay spiritually connected across the archdiocese with this digital prayer card, designed to live on your phone—ready for reflection and prayer wherever you are.
About the Visuals
The primary logo of United in Faith features some of the most
iconic landmarks in the Archdiocese of New York. The symbol
of the Holy Spirit is prominent at the top, and everything is
framed within the shape of a pointed arch with the symbol of
the cross at the very top. This is the simplest visual expression
of the history, diversity, and mission behind the Archdiocese.
Why It Matters
Our strength as a Church lies in our unity—not in sameness, but in shared faith across cultures, regions, and generations. By lifting up everyday voices, we reflect the beauty of the Church lived locally: one faith, many expressions.
As Cardinal Dolan reminds us, the Church is at its best when it’s lived at the grassroots—parish by parish, person by person.
This Summer: Psalms of the Summer
As part of United in Faith, we’re spending the summer with the Psalms.
Our Psalms of the Summer series highlights a verse that speaks to the rhythms of faith, rest, joy, and renewal. These short reflections are designed for social media and digital sharing—perfect for moments of quiet inspiration in a busy season.
Watch for posts on our social media platforms, and share your own reflections using #UnitedInFaith… we’re keep an eye out.
Coming Soon
- Parish Spotlights – Featured stories from communities across the archdiocese
- Voices from the Boroughs and the Bluffs – A new video series sharing local witness
Celebrate your parish. Share your faith. Lift up your story.