Sisters of Our Lady of Sion UK and Ireland Province

January 20th in Shalom, PENMAENMAWR

It was an extra early rise today in order to fit everything in before work. Judith had prepared a very delicious cooked breakfast to start our celebrations. The table was set with her family silver, only used on VERY special days. It was a gorgeous start to a perfect, prayerful day. The cards sent by other communities were admired and placed in a central spot on the sideboard. It is good to feel the unity of the Province on January 20th.

We then had Prayer together beginning with Bernadette Farrell setting of psalm 95, followed by a reading form Teresa Brittain’s beautiful reflection for January 20th and silence. We reflected on Saint Luke’s account of the Visitation with pauses for silence. As we prayed spontaneously, we lit six candles. The first in thanksgiving for all the gift’s Alphonse and Theodore had received from God and for the gift of our charism, the second for all the sisters, brothers and fathers in the Congregation of Our Lady of Sion, especially the novices and the older sisters in nursing homes, for the pupils and staff in Our Lady of Sion Schools. The third was for the Jewish people and their fidelity with their God. The fourth candle was for all the people of Haiti, those who have died, the injured, the homeless, the starving, the orphaned and their rescuers. The fifth candle was for friends, family and all who have been part of our life’s journey and the last candle was for our community and extended communities. We prayed for those seeking to respond to God’s call, mentioning by name those whom we knew. Our morning prayer drew to a close with Liam Lawton’s Magnificat.

Later in the day two of the sisters from Noddfa arrived with flowers and card full of good wishes to mark the day. So we had a lovely time sharing our celebration with them.

We used a special reflection prepared by Marta, a member of the General Leadership Team, for our evening prayer, which was quiet and beautiful.

The day rounded off with a magnificent ‘Dinner’.

Carolyn

Sisters of Our Lady of Sion

Province of UK /Ireland

HOME