Feast of the birthday of Mary brings memories, hope
Like most feast days of Mary, her birthday on Sept. 8 has a long tradition in our BVM congregation. From simple festivities on the prairie to rather noisy entrance days for decades, this annual feast continues to elicit the celebrative dimension of our charism. While we may make some special plans or take time to share some entrance day stories, let the day be welcomed as a special pause at the end of summer. The pause during this Year of Reflection on Mary’s relationship with us as associates and sisters may call us to visualize or visit Mount Carmel’s main entrance.
It was customary on entrance day to be welcomed at the main door, and then probably never again use those steps until some Jubilee photo. Let us pause today to revisit that entrance and let its message of new beginnings touch our hearts. Even as Mount Carmel’s front door was a symbol of formal entry to BVM life and mission, today it is a symbol of entry into a new era. Stand there with all the past, present and future persons who have and will grace that entry and gather them in grateful and hope-filled blessings as we wish a “Happy Birthday” to Mary!
Mary Frances, a good invitation to recall and give thanks. Happy Feast! C Jean
Thanks, Mary Frances, it was lovely to go back and think about the day I came, even though it was July 31. What a gift that first day has blossomed into! And tomorrow we celebrate 70 years with 9 of our BVM sisters and the whole cohort who are in heaven. Gifts upon gifts.
What an awesome article.
While reading it I immediately thought of my friend Sister Realino Lynch on the day she entered,!
Mary Francis, Thank you so much for the lovely note on Mary’s birthday/feast day. It gave me pause for reflection to think of all of you entering that door for the first time, what feelings you were experiencing, and the journey that has unfolded. Peace & joy, Jeanie