On Saturday, January 11 in Illinois, the associates and sisters gathered in South Holland, IL for prayer and festivities that included a piñata and dancing. Certainly, Marguerite’s joy was well celebrated! In the first picture: Sr. Bea Baker and Eva Williams enjoying the events. The second picture: Maria Vazquez holds the piñata and hitting stick. The third picture: Karen Fleszewski, Sr. Darleen Mayo, Eva Williams, Sr. Julia Lydon, and Alicia Parkinson prepare for dancing.
January 11, Eve of the Feast of Saint Marguerite. We celebrated the feast with our residents at Windsor Court. Father John Jennings presided at Mass. John is a retired professor of History and Religious Studies at Saint Thomas University and so was very familiar with Marguerite, having taught of this notable Canadian Saint. We followed the regular Liturgy, but substituted for the First Reading a short reading on Saint Marguerite, and the Responsorial Psalm with David Haas' version of the Magnificat. After the gospel I spoke a few words on my experience "being a member of the CND,” on Marguerite's difficulties, her strengths and perseverance, and her charism. I had brought along the plaque of the “Vie Voyagere,” as well as the visitation statue of Mary and Elizabeth. They were great inspiration! I was very happy to be able to anticipate the Feast in this way.
St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish in Brookfield held a brunch on Sunday from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. St. Marguerite was honored by an 8th grader who dressed up like her and went around to the tables passing out Holy Cards and Prayer Cards. The DVD that was made was used and played in three locations continuously. There was a nice turnout. On Tuesday, there was a Mass televised in Honor of St. Marguerite. Five of our sisters attend along with Father Richardson who gave the sermon on her life.
