Sorrowful Mother Shrine update
A Day of Innocence and Contemplation
On Feb. 8, the shrine halls resonated with the joyful voices of children embarking on a St. Valentine Mini Retreat, thoughtfully led by Fr. Patrick Gonyeau. This retreat held special significance for those preparing for their First Holy Communion.
The journey commenced in the serene embrace of the chapel, where Fr. Patrick warmly welcomed the young participants. Together, they traversed the sacred path of the Stations of the Cross, accompanied by heartfelt prayers. A touching moment arose as each child held a true relic of the cross close to their heart, offering personal prayers and deepening their connection to their faith.
Following these solemn moments, the children gathered in the cafeteria, where the atmosphere lightened with the delight of cookies and hot chocolate. Engaging in creative paper crafts, they expressed their burgeoning faith through art.
The retreat culminated back in the chapel with the celebration of Mass. After the homily, in a touching gesture, each child placed their crafted creations at the foot of the altar, offering them to Jesus. They were given the choice to leave their crafts on the altar or take them home as a cherished reminder of their spiritual journey.
The day was imbued with prayer and reflection, leaving the children deeply engaged and inspired by Fr. Patrick’s words. The added sweetness of treats made the experience all the more memorable.
Honoring Heritage
The following day, Feb. 9, the shrine community braved uncertain weather to attend a historical presentation by Mike Czeczele after the 11 a.m. Mass. The turnout was remarkable, with over fifty individuals gathering to delve into the rich tapestry of the shrine’s 175-year history.
Mike’s dedication to preserving our heritage was evident as he shared stories and artifacts, inviting attendees to contribute their own memories and memorabilia. His meticulous work — transforming a closet full of boxes into an organized archive system — ensures that the shrine’s legacy is both honored and accessible for future generations.
The warmth of shared community further enriched the presentation, as attendees appreciated the coffee and baked goods that accompanied the enlightening discourse.
A heartfelt thank you
These events were made possible through the unwavering dedication of our staff. Many generously donated their time and talents to bring these gatherings to fruition. We extend our deepest gratitude to each of you for your commitment to nurturing the spiritual and communal life of our shrine.
As we reflect on these moments, we are reminded of the strength and unity of our community, ever-growing in faith and fellowship. Join us on Saturday, March 22, for “The Last Supper: Teachings of Jesus on the Holy Spirit,” presented by Fr. Patrick.