On October 9, 2025, Episcopal Ministries of Long Island (EMLI), hosted the largest Celebration of Ministry in its history. The event brought together parishioners and friends from across Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk to honor the transformative work being carried out in communities throughout the diocese.
This year’s honorees — the Outreach Ministries of St. Paul’s Patchogue and the Micah Breakfast Program at St. Barnabas, Brooklyn — were recognized for their steadfast commitment to serving others through compassion, hospitality, and faith in action.
Throughout the evening, guests shared stories of impact and gratitude, reflecting on how EMLI-supported ministries continue to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
For those who were unable to attend, photos and videos from the event are available below, offering a glimpse into the ministries and moments that continue to bring light and hope across God’s kingdom on Long Island.
2025 Honorees
Micah Breakfast Program - St. Barnabas, Brooklyn
Rooted in the prophet Micah’s call to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly, the Micah Breakfast Program welcomed neighbors with hot, nourishing meals, a warm seat, and dignified hospitality every Saturday. But the COVID-19 pandemic shut everything down.
“Four of us decided to band together, and I started asking different people if they would donate," Annette told us. "Father Taylor asked how we were going to do it, and I told him we would donate and give every week. Until we got the EMLI grant, we were doing it all out of our pockets."
Ministry Mondays – St. Paul's, Patchogue
At St. Paul’s, outreach is parish-wide and lay-led—woven through a network of ministries that open the church doors wide to the community. From meal service and a welcoming pantry to a bustling thrift shop and seasonal drives, parishioners organize, stock shelves, sort donations, and serve neighbors with compassion and respect.
“Everyone I know has gotten something they needed here," one parishioner told us. "I had one friend starting a new job, she couldn’t afford money for the thrift store, but they gave her clothes for work. They gave her a suit!”
Photos from the Celebration
Photography by: Jennifer Uihlein, Girl in a Camera Productions