Dear Sisters and Brothers,
P E N T E C O S T S U N D A Y - 19 May 2013
One of the Srs. and I set off for Mount Sion, destination the CHURCH of the DORMITION
for the Solemn High Mass at 10am. The upper church was filled to capacity when the Patriarch and about thirty priests processed in to the sound of joyful music.All the main parts were sung in Latin and some of the hymns in Arabic. After the homily, the Patriarch
confirmed six teenagers, boys and girls. What a privilege and joy for those young people, (and their families) to be confirmed on Mt.Sion where the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles and Mary! They participated in the readings and intercessary prayers. It was a beautiful, prayerful Liturgy from beginning to end.
The clergy were solemnly processing out when suddenly showers of pink petals descended from the high dome above them causing the seriousness to be transformed into surprised smiles! The spirit of joy took over as the church became alive with talk and laughter while children, and even adults, scrambled to collect the pink petals. The joyful atmosphere continued outside in the courtyard where refreshments were served to all.My companion hadn't seen the crypt so I brought her down to show her Our Lady "in dormition" and all the other striking mosaics.
The afternoon saw us back on Mt.Sion but,this time, in the C E N A C L E for Solemn Vespers led by the O.F.M. Custos and a large number of his Brothers. A few "early birds" had found ledges to sit on but for the rest, it was standing room only. I found a good breathing space half behind the exit door and with a wall at my back! The Franciscans processed in, weaving through the crowds to the centre. We had booklets and all was chanted in Latin so everyone joined in and the volume was powerful. Holding a lighted candle and the booklet and turning the pages took quite a bit of juggling as well as avoiding the pilgrims who kept squeezing past from the entrance door to the exit! Before the Reading, the main celebrants processed up to the little room which commemorates the Descent of the Holy Spirit for some incensing and prayer before processing back down again. The whole ceremony was very prayerful, in spite of the many distractions. As the O.F.M's processed out, I felt that the Lord was surely pleased with our enthusiastic prayer and song in praise and thanksgiving for the fulfilment of His Life-giving promise:
"I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper, Who will stay with you forever. He is the Spirit Who reveals the truth about God. When that day comes, you will know that I am in My Father, and that you are in Me and I am in you." Jn. 14:16,20
Praise be to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Alleluia, Alleluia!
The love of the Trinity be with each one,
Jo. fmm
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