On the eve of Pentecost, thousands of individuals participated in what is being hailed as the largest Eucharistic procession ever witnessed in New York City. With the streets filled with prayer and melodic songs of praise, more than 4,000 people, according to the NYPD's estimate, embarked on a procession through Times Square. Guided by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Espaillat of the Archdiocese of New York, the event united clergy, religious sisters, and laypeople in a collective prayer for the absolution of sins within the renowned city and beyond.
Under the theme of "¡Esta ciudad pertenece a Jesucristo!" which translates to "This city belongs to Jesus Christ!", a remarkable procession took place in New York City. The event was coordinated by the Hispanic Catholic Charismatic Center, located within St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in the Bronx. Commencing at Father Duffy Square in Times Square, the participants embarked on a two-hour journey, culminating at St. Patrick's Cathedral, where a Mass was joyfully celebrated.
Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Espaillat led a vibrant procession in New York City, proclaiming the presence of the cross of Jesus Christ in the heart of the city. The event, organized by the Hispanic Catholic Charismatic Center, attracted thousands of participants who joyfully prayed and sang in the streets. Bishop Espaillat highlighted the significance of Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. He expressed his love for New York City and led the faithful in fervent prayers for the city's blessings and well-being.
In a remarkable display of devotion, Bishop Espaillat passionately exclaimed in Spanish, "¡Esta es mi ciudad! ¡Esta es nuestra ciudad! ¡Esta ciudad es de Jesucristo!" which translates to "This is my city! This is our city! This city belongs to Jesus Christ!" Photojournalist Jeffrey Bruno, who unexpectedly encountered the procession through an Instagram post while on assignment in the city, described it as an unprecedented sight, particularly in New York. One poignant moment captured by Bruno was the image of the faithful kneeling in the bustling streets of Times Square, surrounded by towering skyscrapers, as the Blessed Sacrament was raised high in the air.
Father Shane Johnson, the administrator of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and director of the Hispanic Catholic Charismatic Center, was amazed by the genuine faith demonstrated by the participants in the procession. He emphasized that the number of people was not as significant as the authentic devotion they exhibited. Father Johnson found it remarkable to witness individuals kneeling on the city streets with their arms raised in worship, symbolizing their identity as God's children and affirming that the entire city belongs to Him.
Father Shane Johnson acknowledged that while some perceive New York City as hostile towards Catholic events, such as protests during pro-life walks, the reality is that the majority of people are respectful. He shared that there is far more faith present than meets the eye, even though the voices of a vocal minority may create a different impression. Father Johnson believed that the victory of the Lord in the hearts of His children is often greater than what is perceived. He stated that most people appreciate displays of faith, even if they don't fully comprehend them, in a city that is often renowned for its sinners rather than its saints.
The eucharistic procession was organized as part of the Church's National Eucharistic Revival, and another procession is scheduled to take place on the feast of Corpus Christi, Sunday, June 11.