Celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart

Written on: June 16, 2015

Grey Nuns, Associates, Family and Friends came together to celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart on Friday, June 12, at D’Youville College, Buffalo, New York. In this historic chapel 94 years ago Sisters gathered in 1921 to formalize their decision to become an independent religious congregation to be called the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart.

The theme for the liturgy was “Fount of Life and Holiness, Full of Goodness and Love.” In her reflection Sr Joan Daly cited the Gospel reading in which Jesus promises Living Water to the Samaritan woman at the well. Sr Joan said: “The Living Water of God’s love quenches the longing of our hearts for healing, tenderness, mercy and peace.” (Read Sister Joan’s reflection here)

Rev. Quillen Bouzi, OMI, pastor of the combined parishes of Holy Angels, Holy Cross, and Our Lady of Hope, was the celebrant. In her introduction, Sr Donna Lord mentioned that Fr. Bouzi represents the internationality of the West Side of Buffalo, himself a native of Haiti who speaks Creole, French, English, and Spanish. He and his pastoral team reflect the commitment of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate who have made the West Side one of their primary mission centers.

In the Prayer of the Faithful, our Grey Nuns who are living with illness and our friend Eileen Schmidt, were prayed for by name. Led by Bruce Woody, the music was lively and spirited. Closing hymn, composed for the Year of Consecrated Life, was “Wake the World.”

A dinner in Madonna Hall, organized by Sr Karen Marie Voltz and the college staff, followed the liturgy. Sr Sheila Stone led the grace. Honored guest, along with her family, was Martha O’Dowd, mother of Sr Dolores Ann. Mrs. O’Dowd is approaching her 100th birthday.

This entry was posted in From our Sisters and tagged: Buffalo, celebration, D'Youville College, Sisters and friends