Massachusetts Associates Prepare for Easter with Day of Reflection
Information Submitted by: Donna M. Bell, Coordinator, Oblate Associate Tewksbury Community, Tewksbury, MA
The Oblate Associates of the communities of Lowell and Tewksbury Massachusetts held a Lenten Day of Reflection on Saturday, February 27, 2016. Brother Richard Cote, O.M.I. and Donna M. Bell, Coordinator of the Tewksbury Associates collaborated on the full day, two-part program. The morning began with a beautiful Opening Prayer Service which set the tone for the DVD by Fr. Ron Rolheiser, O.M.I., The Passion of Christ, A Meditation.
St. William’s Parish in Tewksbury, MA.
The program was open to everyone, not just the Associate Communities. Men and women came from all over the area including a few Sisters of The Holy Union and their associates, along with some members of the Third Order of Franciscans. Everyone was inspired by Fr. Rolheiser’s meditation. Through scripture and examples from life, Fr. Ron helped us visualize how we can give our lives to the world and how we can also give our death to the world.
Donna M. Bell and Laura Francis
It takes a lot of planning and hard work to pull together any program. Associate Laura Francis, along with other Oblate Associates took on behind-the-scene logistics and the hard work of providing refreshments and an outstanding lunch.
We are very fortunate to have had two rooms for our use; one for morning coffee, refreshments and lunch, and the second where the Lenten Reflection Program was held. We used round tables seating one or two Associates with four or five other attendees building up small “communities” so it wouldn’t be necessary for anyone to move when it came time for break out sessions. The sharing and fellowship flowed between both rooms. Attendees also enjoyed time for sharing, silence, going out for a short walk, or visiting the St. Eugene De Mazenod 24/7 adoration room. Feedback from the group indicated a very successful day of reflection!
This is our second annual Lenten Day of Reflection which is made possible by the generous support of Fr. Andrew Knop, O.M.I., Pastor, St. William Catholic Church and the parish staff.
Sandy Gallinaro, Lowell Associates Coordinator and myself, Donna M. Bell, Tewksbury Associates Coordinator, wish to thank everyone for all their hard work and support.