The nuns at Mount Grace Convent are cloistered, so they must stay behind bars which symbolize their separation from the rest of the world.
Michael's mom and her brother, Paco, brought the gifts for communion to their sister. For this special occasion, they were also invited to take a speaking part in the Mass, which allowed them to go behind the bars and up onto the altar. Michael's parents were the lectors, Michael prayed the intercessions, and his uncle gave a speech about Sister Lulu.
Many family and friends were able to gather for this festivity, making it a real party. Christine was able to travel to St. Louis from Seattle, too! We always love seeing her.
Sister Lourdes wore a crown of pink roses in honor of her 25th anniversary, and she made one just like it for Bella to wear since her birthday was less than two weeks later.
As always, the nuns provided plenty of good food and drinks for everyone to enjoy.
I brought a suitcase full of quiet activities for the girls to enjoy, since we basically spent the whole weekend in the basement of the convent in this one large room, visiting with the nuns (who stayed behind a symbolic grate). I went a little overboard, as the girls didn't even touch half of the items I brought. The kids definitely enjoyed our weekend trip, though, so it was a success.
Gabi impressed the nuns by reading a VeggieTales story about Esther.
Kati even took her nap at the convent.
Tita Chrissie posed for one last picture with her nieces in the garden before leaving the convent.
Doh! Close, Open! :) Thanks for the great pics sis! It was wonderful to spend that weekend with all of you!
ReplyDelete