Bellowing strains of “Aleluya, Aleluya, Aleluya, resucitó” to a steady drumbeat the Salesian Sisters and Aspirants of the North Haledon, New Jersey community joined the faithful of Boston in a Eucharistic procession during Easter week. Organized by the Office of Vocations, this marked the second year that the Archdiocese of Boston held its own Eucharistic Congress. The Sisters and Aspirants were invited to participate through Fr. Michael Zimmerman, Assistant Vocation Director for the Archdiocese and past VIDES volunteer.
The entire event included fifteen total processions, over the course of seven days with three routes eventually meeting on the final night. The Sisters and aspirants were able to join the congress for two of those nights. Sister April Hoffman said, “My experience of the Boston Eucharistic Congress was one of sharing the Salesian charism to young people and clergy who had otherwise not encountered us. The joy we felt in meeting them was mirrored in their sincere openness and hospitality in welcoming us. The idea of going on pilgrimage to follow Jesus through the streets of the bustling city was what first attracted me to come, but God in His great providence, allowed us in many conversations, generous gestures, and opportunities to recognize our call to the Family Spirit within the larger Church and to journey with the 1,000+ faithful who attended the events.”
As the procession moved through the streets of Boston, the Eucharist drew not only those who came to follow, but also captured the attention of those who simply happened upon it. One man on a bicycle looking amazed asked Aspirant Madeline Appelhans, “What’s going on here?” She replied, “It’s a procession with the Blessed Sacrament. It’s Jesus truly present!” In moments like these, the event invited others to pause and consider that perhaps God really does walk among His people.
Congress photos are courtesy of Eric Manougian, TheCatholicBostonPhotographer.com