Monday, December 28, 2009

YOUR face in a child

Today is the Feast of Holy Innocence. It is also the anniversary date of the Professed Vows of Sister Marie Helen, CT. Sister, or “Aunt Leila” to my brother and me, was our father’s Governess. Our father was the son of an Episcopal Priest. Daddy’s mother died in pregnancy when he was three years old, so Aunt Leila was responsible for his care. She loved our father very much, as well as she loved his mother and referred to her as a “saint.” On the back of “Sister’s” profession photograph, she wrote these words, “Professed Dec. 28—1945. Holy Innocents Day—gave my life to and for little children.”

Today is also the anniversary date of my own baptism into the life of Christ. Sister Marie Helen was one of the sponsors.

Today, I spent time with my nine year old granddaughter. To see her face come alive with glowing joy at the simplest, most ordinary thing was a sight I will always keep with me.

I am thankful for the lives of the Saints who have gone before us. I am thankful that there are Saints today whose vocation on earth is to care for the well being of children. I am thankful that I have been blessed today in bringing full circle the vows of one professed Sister.

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