Though the feasts of St. Patrick (March 17) and St. Joseph (March 19) often fall within the Lenten liturgical season of the Church, they’re still occasions for special prayer and frivolity for the Little Sisters and their Residents. This year was no exception as anyone can see from the accompanying photos.
Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Bill Murphy entertained us with his singing and piano, as everyone chimed in, knowing the words to the familiar standards he played. The auditorium was decorated in green, and refreshments (including green beer) were served. Most Residents wore green clothing and donned green hats and ornaments for the afternoon festivities.
On St. Joseph’s Feast Day, Auxiliary Bishop Edward Rice of the Archdiocese of St. Louis once again joined with us for this important day in the history and lives of the Little Sisters. Joined by Father Jim Beegan, our chaplain, and the visiting chaplain from the local Pink Sisters, Bishop Rice gathered with the entire community in the front lobby where he blessed the breads, fruits and vegetables that were placed around our St. Joseph statue before Mass. Then all processed in with the Bishop as the special liturgy was celebrated. After the liturgy, Bishop Rice took time to greet everyone as they exited our chapel, and then joined our Residents for a festive dinner with four choice entrees. A special moment occurred when Bishop Rice recognized one of our Residents, Melvin Cern, who had taught him years ago. The feast days of St. Patrick and St. Joseph reminded us of the example and intercession of two of our favorite saints.
