Members of the Hispanic American Law Enforcement Association and the Bayonne Hispanic Association distributed toys to celebrate Three Kings Day at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church on Jan. 17, 2015. Caitlin Mota | The Jersey Journal

BAYONNE -- Two local Hispanic organizations gathered today in the basement of All Saints Catholic Academy to host a Three Kings Day celebration. 

The Hispanic American Law Enforcement Association and the Bayonne Hispanic Association distributed toys to children to celebrate the holiday.

Three Kings Day, often celebrated on Jan. 6, marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas, and the day the three wise men traveled to bring gift to baby Jesus. The day is largely celebrated by Hispanics. 

Abett Hernandez, founder and event coordinator of the Bayonne Hispanic Association, said she remembers celebrating the holiday as a young girl, and that it is important to teach children about their heritage. 

"We want to save our tradition so the kids learn... why we celebrate in our country," Hernandez said. 

The toys distributed were collected and donated by the Hispanic American Law Enforcement Association, with many of its members in attendance. 

Javier Toro, treasure of the organization and an officer with the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office, said events like this are important to create positive relationships with members of law enforcement. 

"Through the year, we look for different ways to give back to the community," Toro said.

Dozens of children lined up to select a toy from the Three Kings. Those in attendance also enjoyed food and music from Hispanic cultures. 

Fr. Peter Wehrle, pastor of Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich, said the event represents a new beginning, and it is wonderful to see the community come together.  

"It's a community of great faith," he said. "One of the beautiful things is it's also families with their children, and that they don't let anything come between them and God."

During a brief ceremony, Wehrle said a prayer for the safety of all members of law enforcement and for all mothers. 

On Jan. 1.,  St. Mary Star of the Sea Church and St. Andrew the Apostle Church became part of the same parish called the Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Parish.