Left, Sister Ceil Taphorn speaks during Spirit Days; Sister Mary Ellen Andrisin photo. Middle, Jubilarians open their gifts during the Saturday night gala; Dave Eck photo. Right, Sisters sing in chapel; Sister Martha Bertke photo.
You could say it was a family reunion with plenty of socialization and some business mixed in as Precious Blood Sisters from around the United States, Guatemala and Chile gathered at Salem Heights June 28 – July 1 for their annual Spirit Days.
With the Theme “Hope in a Time of Chaos,” the event enabled Sisters to reflect on where to find the hope to deal with today’s chaotic events in a positive and life-giving way that is still realistic. Chaos is found in the church, religious life and the world. Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration Marlene Weisenbeck addressed the congregation and facilitated a day-long discussion of the topic on June 29.
Additionally, Sisters were welcomed by community President Joyce Lehman and participated in an opening prayer.
After a day of business meetings on June 30, the Sisters enjoyed an evening of fun and fellowship in recognition of six members celebrating milestone jubilees this year. Marking 50 years of religious life are Sisters Nancy Wolf, Joanne Belloli, Pat Gist, Rita Rogier and Joyce Langhals. Sister Mary Rose McCrate is celebrating 60 years of religious life. Each of the Sisters was honored with a light-hearted slideshow of photos. The Jubilarians also opened gifts from the Community Council.
The highlight of Spirit Days was the July 1 Jubilee Mass and banquet. The Mass was concelebrated by Precious Blood Fathers Ralph Verdi and Angelo Anthony. The Jubilarians participated in the Mass as lectors and Eucharistic ministers.
There were plenty of laughs and good conversation at the banquet as Sisters continued to celebrate the Jubilarians. A few Sisters snapped photos of friends during the toasts that were offered.
By mid-afternoon, goodbyes had been said, good wishes exchanged and embraces were over as Sisters headed back to their homes and places of ministry.
– Story by Dave Eck
To view the photo gallery, click here