Despite the two feet of snow that fell over the Shrine last Wednesday, Holy Week and Easter was a busy and grace-filled time at Mother Cabrini Shrine. Thanks to our male staff members and some faithful volunteers, all 373 steps were shovelled before Good Friday visitors came to pray the Stations of the Cross and walk to the Sacred Heart statue.
Fr. John Lager, O.F.M., Cap. celebrated all of the services. Several student friars and postulants as well as several other Capuchin priests concelebrated the services at the Shrine. The Sisters, staff and countless visitors, pilgrims and friends of the Shrine participated in the Triduum. Holy Thursday began with a Seder Meal for staff and volunteers followed by the Holy Thursday liturgy, which included the washing of feet. On Good Friday several groups of people walked up the road to the Shrine on Pilgrimage carrying crosses to commemorate the day. There was a Reflection on the Seven Last Words Jesus spoke from the cross, followed by the Liturgy of the Passion and the veneration of the cross. The Easter Vigil was celebrated on Holy Saturday with the blessing of fire and water. Easter Sunday Masses were celebrated with crowds overflowing the chapel and into the surrounding area. The 2 p.m. Spanish Mass was very popular also.
One of our outreach projects during this Lenten season has been filling and delivering Easter baskets to the students at Annunciation Catholic School in Denver. Through the generosity of those who worship at the Shrine, we were able to deliver 200 baskets to the students.