Bishop Robert Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn which includes Queens, celebrated a Mass on Sunday, June 27, 2026, honoring the 75th Anniversary of St. Francis Catholic Academy/School located in Astoria. The Mass, held at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in Astoria, was attended by current and former students, faculty and staff, and alumni.
In his homily, Bishop Brennan stated, “Through many generations, right through to the present day, the school here at St. Francis of Assisi has educated children, supported families, and formed disciples of Jesus Christ right here in Astoria. We are ever grateful to the Dominican Sisters who served here over the years and who shaped the school.”
“Over the past seven and a half decades, our school has witnessed remarkable milestones. Our responsibility is not only to preserve our proud traditions, but also to embrace innovation, foster creativity and equip our students with the skills and values needed to rise in the future,” said Ms. Elizabeth Reilly, Principal of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy.
Following the Mass, a reception was held to mark the milestone.
Photo Credits:
Photos 1-4 are courtesy of John Quaglione/Diocese of Brooklyn.
Photo 5 is courtesy of Chris DeMare.
Captions:
• Bishop Brennan greets St. Francis alumni.
• Bishop Brennan with St. Francis students.
• Bishop Robert Brennan gave the homily.
• St. Francis alumni and faculty at the Mass.
• St. Francis Academy photo display.