EASTER, SHARING FAIR AND IRELAND !

25TH. APRIL 2011 EASTER, SHARING FAIR AND IRELAND!
We have had a beautiful few days of enjoying the Ceremonies. On Saturday night, our little church was well-filled. Then, all went to the Cathedral space for the traditional - "Christ is risen" - very dramatically said as the candles were lit. Next, we broke red hard-boiled eggs, each one with the person nearest to them. I was near a small girl and we almost had a game, it took us so long! Afterwards, I walked to the city-centre to accompany an American girl to her hotel. Returning, I was almost enveloped in a sea of candlelight. All denominations walk home, carrying the "Light of Easter". This created pathways of light in all directions - a very simple, yet powerful symbol.

We were very fortunate to have had a priest from Elbason for the few days. He completed his commitment yesterday. We had Mass here and then he said an afternoon Mass at Pogradec. Amira went with Mirjam and 30 attended. Mass is a rare event there.

Meanwhile, Lalini and I were "open for visitors" - another tradition! Initially, we had 13 adults and some children. We used the moment to introduce St. Mary Euphrasia. Lalini showed a very suitable powerpoint - a brief history of her childhood and Angers. Then a global focus on our work and, with more detail, on Europe. The visitors loved it and both Shqip and English were used. Later, a few more neighbours
came to visit.

Throughout the few days, the Sisters spoke a lot of last Easter, when Sisters Brigid and Daniela were visiting. For me this was my first experience of Korce Easter. Also, we heard ripples of Sharing Fair AGM at Amersfoort today, and then the European Meeting of Provincials in Ireland in the coming days - hopefully with lots of sunshine for all!

Enjoy the Paschal Season!