Candlemas Day February 2nd 2017
The Feast of the Presentation celebrated by the Religious of the Archdiocese of Glasgow
Archbishops led the procession
A variety of Sisters who renewed their Vows
Time for tea and chat
followed by many Religious
A group of Sisters of Notre Dame together in the Cathedral
A feast of Light in the beautiful Cathedral
About seventy Sisters and Brothers from different Religious Communities in the Archdiocese of Glasgow, Scotland made their way to St Andrew's Metropolitan Cathedral Glasgow, to share Eucharist on the feast day.
Archbishop Philip Tartaglia was the principal celebrant while Mario Conti, Archbishop Emeritus presided. The Liturgy was meaningful and was that of the feast , beginning with the procession of the faithful, carrying lighted candles, symbolising Christ the Light of All Nations. During his homily the Archbishop thanked all for their service and dedication to the Archdiocese.
After the Homily, those in Consecrated Life renewed their Vows .....
' In the name of the Father who created us
In the name of the Son who redeemed us
In the name of the Spirit who dwells in us
We renew our vows of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience
and our desire to witness to the Gospel
as we serve the Church in Scotland.
Indeed a feast of Light as the brightness of the day shone into the beautiful Cathedral, highlighting the decorated pillars and ceiling ....
After the sharing of Eucharist, a buffet in Eyre Hall in the Cathedral Building, was appreciated and enjoyable as many renewed friendships . Laughter and Happiness was tangible. Indeed a Happy Day....
For Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur this day is very significant ... In 1804, on 2nd February , the Feast of the Presentation , the institute was founded as Julie Billiart, Françoise Blin de Bourdon and Catherine Duchatel consecrated themselves to God, and promised to devote their lives to the education of the poor. As the feast was also known as the Purification of Mary, they decided to call themselves 'Sisters of Notre Dame' .