By: Margie Janson, NL Redemptorist Associate
At the Partnership in Mission Commission Meeting in January this year, Commission members discussed the possibility of Associate Circles doing a common apostolic project across the country. The suggestion was put forward for some form of Novena in Honour of the Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. St. Teresa’s opted for a Novena Triduum at noon each day followed by a brown bag lunch. With great joy and delight we want to tell you we feel it was an overwhelming success. The interest amazed us with the attendance of more than 100 people daily.
St. Teresa’s Associate Circle chose to do their Novena in union with the Legion of Mary. Each day had a different Marian theme which was expressed in a simple Liturgy of the Word and was led by an Associate. Our themes were Peace, Health of the Sick and Good Counsel. Additionally, each day consisted of a witness talk. Associate Jim Healey gave witness the first day telling how a coincidental recitation of the Memorare while visiting a church in Florida turned his life around. Richard Moores who has Stage 4 cancer spoke on Day 2 about his battle over the last year. On the third and final day Archbishop Currie spoke of his wonderful relationship with Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and the comfort he finds in her arms as he deals with the many struggles so immediately before a Bishop in St. John’s today.
Redemptorists Tony Bidgood, Leo English, Paul Hansen and Roy Thomas, were there waving the flag, as usual, in support and helping where needed. Approximately 6 or 7 associates attended daily.
A special thank you to the Partnership in Mission Commission for the idea of a Novena in Honour of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. St. Teresa’s Redemptorists, Associates and parishioners are grateful for this unifying event in our parish.
