We had the great pleasure of celebrating the feast of Mother Provincial Maria Christine Joseph here in Gallup. Mother Provincial celebrates her feast in a different Home each year, and this year we were chosen to host the feast (which is truly an honor).
Mother Provincial had chosen the feast of Our Lady of Joy. As soon as we found out the theme, there was much planning going on throughout the Home, with a play and preparation for the Mass.
Our bishop, Bishop James S. Wall, was the main celebrant for our Mass in the morning. We were so fortunate to have a very good organist come in along with one of our volunteers who is a cantor who not only led the music but sang a beautiful song to Our Lady. The Mass concluded with a hymn to the Blessed Mother in Navajo, with drums shakers and tambourines.
The afternoon was a fun time with a play on the joys of Mary and the joys of Jeanne Jugan. The play included Residents, Staff, volunteers even a little baby that played the part of the baby Jesus. The scenery was painted by one of our Residents with the help of a friend. The play was a hit, and we thank all that were involved (from curtain pulling to helping the Residents to get ready.) Much went into the play and it was great!
