As I waited for the celebration to begin, some children
noticed I had a camera. They were only
too happy for me to take their pictures!
But let me explain: celebrating patronal feasts in Haiti is very
important. It is a big occasion for the
village and many priests from around the diocese and even beyond come to
participate. In addition, local bigwigs,
politicians (senators and deputies, mayors and magistrates) police and members of
the judiciary are also present. This
Patronal Feast was no different. It
began with liturgical dancers dancing up the aisle
The procession of
about thirty priests, not counting seminarians and altar servers followed. The church had been beautifully bedecked with
ribbons and fresh flower arrangements.
The choir and the band filled the church with beautiful sound. Another offertory procession flowed down the
aisle. This one included live chickens
and a collection of what appeared to be mops.
In closing, Fr. Cassa thanked all of the dignitaries, priests,
seminarians, choir, band, honored guests (he included me in this!), sacristans
and people who had come from the chapels.
If you ever have the opportunity to participate, it is surely a great
blessing!
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