At St. Barbara, Choose a Mass by Language Before You Go

St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church, located at 138 Bleecker Street in Bushwick, offers a range of weekend Masses in English, Spanish, and a bilingual format. If you’re considering attending, matching the language and time of the service to your needs is the first step to a smooth visit.

The parish’s official schedule provides several options: Saturday evening Mass at 7:30pm is in Spanish, while Sunday offers three choices—9:30am in English, 11am in Spanish, and 12:30pm as a bilingual service. For those seeking weekday worship, Mass is held Monday through Saturday at 9:20am in Spanish. Confession is available on Saturdays from 6:00 to 6:45pm.

Choosing the Right Mass for Your Visit

If you’re most comfortable with English, the 9:30am Sunday Mass is your primary option. Spanish speakers have both the Saturday vigil and Sunday 11am Mass, as well as daily morning services. The 12:30pm bilingual Mass on Sunday may be a good fit if you’re visiting with friends or family who prefer different languages, or if you’re interested in a service that blends both.

For example, a family with both English- and Spanish-speaking members might find the bilingual Mass most inclusive. Someone who needs to keep the afternoon free could choose the earlier English service, while leaving time for the rest of the day.

Planning Around Confession and Other Sacraments

Confession is scheduled for Saturdays from 6:00 to 6:45pm. If you wish to participate, plan to arrive early enough to allow for possible lines or to speak with a priest. For baptisms, weddings or other rites, contact the parish office at 718-452-3660 to discuss preparation and scheduling. These require their own arrangements rather than simply selecting a regular Mass.

Navigating the Location and Transit

St. Barbara’s address is 138 Bleecker Street, Brooklyn, NY 11221. For those using public transit, check current MTA directions and service changes for your travel date. Bushwick is served by several subway and bus lines, but weekend service can vary, so it’s wise to confirm routes and schedules in advance.

If you’re driving, consider local parking regulations, which can change due to street cleaning or neighborhood events. Leave time to read the parking signs and walk to the church rather than building the plan around finding a space at the door.

Accessibility and Special Needs

If you or a companion have specific needs regarding entrances, interior routes, seating, or restrooms, it’s best to call the parish office ahead of your visit. This allows you to confirm whether the facilities meet your requirements and to ask about any available assistance.

Office Hours and Visitor Etiquette

Parish office hours are not the same as Mass or general visitor hours. If you need to speak with staff, arrange meetings during posted office times. For those attending Mass, respectful attire and conduct are expected. If you have questions about participation, such as receiving communion or other customs, consider asking a parish representative before the service.

Making the Most of Your Experience

If you’re new to the parish or visiting for a special occasion, you might want to arrive a few minutes early to find seating and get oriented. The church’s official website may offer updates on events or changes to the schedule. For group visits or special requests, contacting the parish in advance can help ensure your needs are met.

Before You Go

• Choose your Mass time and language: English (Sunday 9:30am), Spanish (Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 11am, weekdays 9:20am), or bilingual (Sunday 12:30pm).
• Confirm transit routes and parking options for your visit date.
• Call ahead about accessibility or special needs.
• For Confession or other sacraments, check times and ask about requirements.
• Review the parish website or call 718-452-3660 for updates or specific questions.

If you are accompanying someone unfamiliar with Catholic worship, discuss whether the visit is for a whole service or another purpose before choosing the time. Keep photography and conversation respectful of people who are there to pray.