
Dorothy and John Thorne, Holy Name of Jesus, Woodbury: John and Dorothy have served the parish generously almost since it began. They are both extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion and readers of the Word, exercising these ministries at church and at the nursing homes the parish serves. They have held leadership positions in the senior club and have been active members of various parish committees.

Antonio Izquierdo, Holy Name of Mary, Valley Stream (with, from left, St. Joseph Sister Margie Kelly, parish outreach director; Anna Izquierdo, Antonio’s wife; and former pastor Msgr. Thomas Harold): Anthony has been a member of the pastoral council and past president of the parish St. Vincent de Paul Society. He is often asked to assume leadership and serve on various parish committees. He is always quick to volunteer and serve. He has actively joined efforts to encourage to a greater commitment to Sunday Mass attendance, and has succeeded in bringing others to increased sacramental practice.

Helen Majkowski, St. Aidan, Williston Park (with pastor Msgr. James McDonald): A parishioner since 1950, Helen is always reaching out to others in need. On a weekly basis she drives the homebound to doctors’ appointments, supermarkets and wherever there is a need. She is always in church caring for the altar and things that pertain to the celebration of Mass and the beauty of the church and sacristy. Her charity and generosity are extraordinary.

Patricia Beirne, St. James, Seaford (with her husband, Deacon James Beirne, and pastor Father John Derasmo): Pat has taught religious education, worked as a youth minister, and assisted in the adult retreat program. She was part of the original baptism program 25 years ago, has served with her husband as a team couple in pre-Cana for 25 years, and has been an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion for 20 years. She has volunteered for the parish carnival, and recently joined the family ministry program.

Joan Echausse, St. Brigid, Westbury (with pastor Msgr. Ralph Sommer): Joan has been director of parish outreach for the last nine years, overseeing a massive program that provides direct service to up to 500 people a month, through a food pantry, two satellite offices, a storefront assistance operation, a thrift store and partnering with an immigrant services operation. With eight children and 16 grandchildren, she also still finds time to serve as a lector and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.
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