For many weeks, the administrative staff of
the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton worked to prepare
a celebration to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of her Canonization.
The program included a liturgical celebration and presentation of
the Seton Founder’s Award as well as a reception for guests in the
dining room and courtyard of St. Joseph’s Provincial House. Members
of the Antonio Gatto Sons of Italy Choir from Laurel, MD were invited
to provide music for the occasion.
Archbishop Harry J. Flynn of St. Paul and Minneapolis returned to
Emmitsburg as principal celebrant and homilist at the Liturgy held
in the basilica. Sister Hildegarde Marie Mahoney, S.C. of the Sisters
of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Convent Station, New Jersey received
the Founder’s Award for her contributions to education, religious
life, and service as manifestation of her witness to the spirit
and ideals of Saint Elizabeth Ann.
The joyous atmosphere of the pilgrims to the Shrine, the many guests
of the Emmitsburg Daughters of Charity, of the visiting clergy and
guests was increased by the presence of many people who had attended
the Canonization in Rome and Emmitsburg on September 14, 1975.
For Archbishop Flynn, former rector of Mount St. Mary’s |
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Seminary
at the time of the canonization, the liturgical celebration and
the gathering of many friends and former colleagues at the shrine
brought joyful memories of September 1975 when he was among the
pilgrims who had come to Emmitsburg to unite their voices of gratitude
with those gathered in Rome that day.
The Archbishop referred to Emmitsburg as the "source of my
roots as a priest" and noted that looking again at the valley
and mountains caused memories to well up in his heart and mind.
The members of the congregation shared similar memories and spiritual
inspiration as Archbishop |
Flynn
recalled the influence of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton which now extends
from her own experiences in New York and Emmitsburg to all parts
of the world.
The homily opened with a consideration of the effect of Faith in
all persons as it permits them to grow toward something greater
than the self and embrace the Good News in all its entirety. "
That person of Faith believes that God has done something. He has
spoken. He has sent His Son who has given us a Church, Himself in
the Eucharist, and a message by which we might live." The Archbishop
continued his reflection on
Continued on page 2 |
Archbishop Harry
J. Flynn greeting
Cecilia and Robert Balog, members of the
Seton Shrine Associate Board
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