This article was first published by The Rhode Island Catholic.
Rites of spring go as far back in history as we know it. Myths and legends, May poles and dancing celebrate the longer days and warmer temperatures. The first sight of budding trees and flowers sprouting up, while snow still covers the ground, gives the promise of spring in all its beauty. Even Scripture delights in the season:
“See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone.
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come,
the cooing of doves is heard in our land.
The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance.” (Song of Songs 2:11-13)
The blossoming fruit trees are such a gift to all our senses. Tulips and daffodils are not just a luxury of the suburbs or the country. City homes have window boxes or a small patch of green with the flowers standing tall and leaning toward the sun. Musicians and artists have composed and performed, drawn and painted their experiences and reactions to spring’s abundance of beauty.
Our Celebration of Earth Day was a special one at Andrews. All the residents were conscious of this day as they witnessed the colorful and meaningful display of "our common home" near the front entrance. Beside this beautiful display prepared by our Director of Activities, Jackie Vanderzwaag, was an Information Sheet for everybody, describing the ways in which we might honour and continue to celebrate Earth Day every day of our lives. The Sisters were happy to share with everybody our large earth ball.
During our Evening Prayer, prepared by Sr. Anne T. Gillis, Sisters continued our celebration with a special prayer honouring the gifts of life which we receive from our earth. The display was prepared by Sr. Marie Gaudet.
Marie Hagen, CND
World Day of Prayer for Vocations
Sunday, April 25
Saint Joseph: The Dream of Vocation
In his message to the world for this occasion, Pope Francis turns to Saint Joseph for inspiration. Presenting Joseph as a man who heard God’s call to be a father, responded to it, and lovingly lived out this vocation throughout his life, Pope Francis invites us to spend some time getting to know Joseph better.
For Pope Francis, Joseph can be an inspiration to all of us trying to live out our respective vocations in the midst of our daily routines, be we mothers, fathers, young, single, consecrated religious, or priests.