Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788 2958 or Dwight Williams (212) 788-2972
The next bill before me, Introductory Number 929, sponsored by Council Members Malave-Dilan, Foster, O'Donovan, Robles and Williams, would add, through the posting of an additional sign, the name "Via Capuchina" on Jerome Street between Liberty Avenue and Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn.
The Capuchin Franciscans are a religious order of the Roman Catholic Church founded in Italy in 1529 as a reform movement within the Franciscan order. The Capuchins' name comes from the long hood or cowl which is part of their religious habit, popularly known in Italy as a "capuch." The order grew very rapidly and spread throughout Europe, becoming one of the largest religious orders in the Catholic Church, second only to the Jesuits.
During the 19th century, the Capuchins came to East New York in Brooklyn, where the parish of St. Michael had been established in 1860. In 1897, the Capuchins took responsibility for the parish and have served ever since, ministering not only to the German-speaking immigrants initially in the neighborhood, but to all who have since arrived in East New York.
The Capuchins have been at the forefront for change in East New York and have aided and supported the Nehemiah housing program, the fight against drugs, the fight for better education and a myriad of other social issues spearheaded by the ecumenical organization known as the East Brooklyn Congregations.
Thus, in light of the many years of service that the Capuchin Franciscans have devoted to the people of East New York and to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the presence of the Capuchin order at St. Michael's Church, it is fitting that Jerome Street between Liberty Avenue and Atlantic Avenue be named "Via Capuchina."
I will now turn to the bill's sponsors; next to any other elected official who may wish to speak.
There being no one else to be heard, and for the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.