The Feast of Saint Damien this year fell on the fourth week of Easter Season. The celebration in the Brothers General House in Rome began with an all-night adoration, starting at 10 pm and ending at 6 am on the 10th of May 2017. A framed image of Damien placed underneath the tabernacle assisted us in perceiving the communion of the pilgrim Church on earth with the glorified Church represented by the Saints.
Four Sacred Hearts sisters came to join the Eucharist at 11:30 am that was presided by Camille Sapu Malangu sscc, the Vicar General, Superior of the House, and General Archivist. The sense of multiculturality permeated the memorial Mass since the scriptures were read in Spanish and Italian, the consecration done in Lingala, and the French song Oser La Vie sung during communion.
As related by Camille in his homily, the utter self-giving ministry of Damien is still touching many hearts these days. There is a touch of freshness and renewals every time we celebrate his Feast; characteristic of a living Church. A time of inclusive conviviality followed in the meeting room where the four lay persons, Luana, Maria, Monika, and Patrizia, who work at the Generalate, came to join in the celebration. A delicious home-cooked Italian meal concluded the Sacred Hearts family celebration in Rome.
05/11/2017