The word Halloween is derived from the term, “All Hallows Eve,” which occurs on Oct. 31. “All Saints Day” or “All Hallows Day” is the next Day, Nov. 1st. Therefore, Halloween is the eve of All Saints Day.
Friday evening began in Chapel with first vespers of All Saints – a solemnity anticipating All Saints Day on Nov. 1st. The opening hymn was Lo! What a Cloud of Witnesses…. reminding us of those who have gone before us, but now with glory crowned. We ask that with zeal like theirs, we too maybe faithful in the Christian race…there, with the Savior and his Saints, triumphantly to stand.
After Evening Prayer, most of the Sisters recessed to the dining room. However, some Sisters took a detour and when they entered the dining room, they were transposed to –from the left- Granny Fionna, Cow Gal Sue of the Bad Cold on a Bad Hair Day, Miss Olive Etti, King Elfadoriss and his faithful, protecting knight, Sir Gawain.
What stories and adventures they shared among themselves and others. For sure, it wasn’t all serious for there was much laughter! In the Bible we read:
Judges 19:6 – Let your heart be merry.
Proverbs 15:15 – She that is of a merry heart has a continual feast.
There are many quotes about laughter, such as:
A good laugh heals a lot of hurts. — Madeleine L’Engle
You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing. – Michael Pritchard
The person who can bring the spirit of laughter into a room is indeed blessed. –Bennett Cerf
Laughter is an instant vacation. – Milton Berle
Laughter opens the lungs, and opening the lungs, the vestibules of the spirit. –anonymous
etc. etc. etc.
Have you figured out who the mysterious Sisters are in this photo? If not, keep reading . .
From left – Sister Barbara Higgins, Sister Mary Susan Dewitt, Sister Joan Marie Stelman,
Sister Jeanne Ann Weber, Sister Dorene King.