Christmas Day

On Christmas Eve, along with two of the sisters I am living with, I attended midnight mass (yes! It really was held at midnight, Central Time!) Before the liturgy started, beautiful Christmas Carols were sung in the darkened church while each person held a lit candle. There was an amazingly diverse crowd gathered for mass, including some individuals who are currently homeless. Although I had moments when I longed to be with my family and community, by the time mass ended I knew I had made the right decision to stay. Over the years, Christmas memories from various years begin to blend together, but this Christmas I expect will be remembered distinctly and fondly.

Yesterday, in the convent next door, sisters, friends and neighbors (including the Baptist minister whose home we went to for Thanksgiving dinner) gathered to celebrate Christmas. It was truly an enjoyable event.

By the end of the day my ear was tiered from all of the phone conversations! I am grateful for the technology which allowed me to clearly hear the voices of so many of you who I feel so close to despite the geographic distance. I am even more grateful for the people the technology allowed me to speak with!

Last night was declared a freeze night, so extra shelter space was open to accommodate those who would otherwise be on the street. I went to the shelter to visit a bit with the people who had come in from the cold. Most were so grateful to be out of the cold, even though the shelter was not especially warm and there were not enough cots for everyone.

In case I neglect to thank someone or did not reciprocate, I truly appreciate all of the cards, gifts, and greetings received this Christmas season. Thank you!

Typically, I write an update on Saturday or Sunday, however next weekend I may not. I was invited to go with some of the sisters to a house by a lake for the weekend to celebrate the arrival of a New Year and don't know if there is a computer with internet access there. If not, I'll write soon after my return.

Happy New Year!