This year, to celebrate the Feast, the Diocesan Heritage Center hosted a Mass and Candlelight Rosary Procession on the grounds of the Bishop Connare Center in Greensburg. Bishop Edward Malesic led us in prayer, and he was joined by retired Bishop Lawrence Brandt, a number of our priests, and well over three hundred of the faithful from throughout the Diocese. Mass began at 7:00 pm in the Saint Joseph Chapel, and was followed by a candlelight procession with the image of Mary along the beautiful grounds of the facility. During and following the procession, the Rosary was prayed, with the first part of the Hail Mary's being prayed in the many languages represented in the Diocese and the response prayed in English by all. At the conclusion, a reception of light refreshments was held in the dining room.
Pictures are courtesy of the Diocesan facebook page
I have been to many events over the years where Faith was expressed in prayer and witness, but I must confess at being very moved by this gathering of God's People. The crowd was more than expected (300 hosts were set out for consecration, and that number was not adequate for those attending). Families came with members of all ages. People came early and enjoyed the beautiful weather and peaceful grounds. The liturgy led by the bishop was uplifting, as was his message and the outstanding singing of the congregation. And then, in the twilight and growing darkness, to see those bearing candles in procession brought back memories of earlier days and of Marian shrines in Europe. I was truly blessed to have shared in the evening.
My gratitude to those who planned and prepared, to the many who attended and witnessed to their faith, to Mary for being our Mother, and to the Lord for his love and grace.
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