We are sorry to announce that Msgr. John Powis passed away yesterday after a long illness.  Msgr. Powis was a founding leader of EBC when he served as pastor of Presentation Parish in Oceanhill-Brownsville.  He then moved to Bushwick, where he led St. Barbara's Parish for many years.  Msgr. Powis was part of a small team of priests that led the negotiations with the late Bishop Francis J. Mugavero as EBC began its Nehemiah Plan in 1982 and 1983.  He was a relentless champion of the people of East Brooklyn and an unwavering partner to all the clergy and lay leaders of EBC and Metro IAF.  He loved the New York Mets, loved being a parish priest, loved Brooklyn, and loved EBC. 

His spirit and toughness inspired us all.

Mike Gecan, IAF Senior Organizer & Dr. David K. Brawley, EBC Co-Chair

Msgr. John Powis, Champion of Brooklyn’s Downtrodden, Dies at 87, NY Times [pdf]

[Photo Credit: Linda Rosier, NY Times]