Celebrating Fr. Ruskin Piedra's Birthday

The Parish Community of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Brooklyn celebrated on January 17th, 2024, with a special Eucharist and Reception, the 90th birthday of Father Ruskin Piedra, C.Ss.R., and the 25th anniversary of ministry at this beloved Basilica. 
 
Filling the lower Church, and besides the parishioners, his Redemptorists brothers and our lay Partners in Mission, accompanying Father Piedra in this significant celebration, were members of his family and several long-time friends.  

Father Piedra´s cousins from West Palm Beach, Florida, and Smithtown, Long Island, came to the celebration.   Fr. Piedra is very close to his cousins since they were raised together on their arrival from Cuba. His other visitors have been friends since before his ordination and are now grandparents, who came from Patchogue and Garden City, Long Island. Interestingly, all these faithful friends are Irish “through and through”; one of them (Dolores McDonnell) was his first baptism!

In the tapestry of life, some threads stand out in vibrant colors, weaving stories of compassion, service, and unwavering dedication. The milestone of Father Piedra’s birthday led all to reflect on the profound impact that Father Piedra has had, particularly in his ministry dedicated to immigrants, marriage preparation, the accompaniment of families with children of special needs, and the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA, in Spanish).

Nurturing a Home for the Stranger
Over 25 years ago, Father Piedra, on seeing the need for pastoral accompaniment of so many immigrants to the United States, at that time mainly Hispanics, was already a tireless advocate for the marginalized in the spirit of the founder of the Redemptorist, Saint Alphonsus María de Liguori, welcoming immigrants with open arms and an open heart. He founded an office of immigration assistance known as the Juan Neumann Center, after the Saintly Redemptorist, Fourth Bishop of Philadelphia, born in 1811 in Bohemia, central Europe, an immigrant himself who came to the United States in 1836 and worked among the many immigrants at that time.  

Father Piedra’s vision of ministry transcends borders, offering solace to those who arrive in a new land, often carrying dreams and hopes. Father Piedra navigates through the labyrinth of immigration bureaucracy and has credentials to advocate in court for those seeking documented status. His migration initiatives have been recognized and reported in various magazines and newspapers, including the New York Times.  Through his guidance, with other members of the Redemptorist community, he provides spiritual support and has been instrumental in creating a sense of community, a home for those who might feel like “strangers in a foreign land”. Father Piedra’s work has been recognized as one of the most outstanding migration services in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.  

Building Strong Foundations in Love
Marriage, a sacred union, has been a cornerstone of Father Piedra’s ministry. Recognizing the challenges couples face in the modern world, he has dedicated himself to ensuring that marriages begin on a solid foundation of faith, love, and understanding. His insightful marriage preparation programs have empowered countless couples to embark on their journey with a shared commitment to God and each other.

Accompaniment of families with children having special needs
Fr. Piedra organized and formed a group of married couples that help families with children of special needs.  The Redemptorist pastoral community is deeply grateful to Fr. Piedra for this structure to which they often make referrals.

Illuminating the Path of Faith
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is a testament to Father Piedra’s commitment to nurturing the spiritual growth of individuals seeking a deeper connection with their faith. Through patient guidance, he has led a team that has accompanied countless persons on a transformative journey of discovery, helping them embrace the richness of Catholicism and find a spiritual home within the Church.

A Legacy of Love and Service
Father Piedra’s 90th birthday was a tribute to a life well-lived in service to others. His legacy extends beyond the walls of the church building, touching the lives of immigrants finding their way, couples building families, and individuals seeking a profound connection with their faith.

Our gratitude
As we gathered to honor Father Piedra on this momentous occasion, we expressed gratitude for his impact on our lives and countless others. His ministry, marked by love, compassion, and a genuine dedication to God, inspires us all. May the coming years be filled with continued blessings for Father Piedra as his journey of faith, service, and love continues illuminating the path for future generations. 

Happy 90th birthday, Father Ruskin Piedra, C.Ss.R.!

Fr. Manuel Rodríguez Delgado, C.Ss.R.