St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Howard Beach is a wonderful church for visitors and natives alike. The church shares a name and a rich history with a devout Catholic saint who broke glass ceilings and left an indelible imprint in the history of the Catholic Church.

Every year, on August 18, Catholic faithfuls celebrate the feast of St. Helena. Little is known about St. Helena’s childhood, but she’s fondly referred to as the patron saint of discoveries. She was wife to Constantius and mother to Constantine, who later inherited the Roman Empire. She’s an important figure in the trajectory of the Catholic Church and the St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Howard Beach seeks to continue her humanitarian work through their mission statement, “seeing Christ in one another.”

Saint Helen’s Catholic Church hosts a close-knit and vibrant community
This church was established on June 24, 1960, as an effort by the Diocese of Brooklyn to serve the sacramental needs of the Catholic community west of Cross Bay Boulevard. The church holds masses on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, as well as Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every Fridays.

“Just walking through the doors I know I am home. I am welcomed by those I know, but more importantly, by those I do not know,” posts Lauren Peters Johnson on Facebook. “Both Father Colamaria and Father Kubiak are excellent teachers, they do not preach at us, they teach us, pray with us and interact with each of us individually.”

Victims of burglary and scams

This imposing church with generous and charismatic members has been on the radar of rogue individuals. Slightly over two weeks ago, some church members received text messages from someone masquerading as Fr. Francis Colamaria soliciting for money and gift cards. On April 4, 2019, two burglars were caught on security camera emptying four donation collection boxes and made away with the spoils.

Overall, St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Howard Beach, Queens is a tranquil church with vibrant and enthusiastic members. You’ll certainly feel at home.

After attending mass feel free to stop by Lenny’s on Crossbay Boulevard for some of the best seafood in New York City.