It was the 33rdVincentian festival, a wonderful event that was enjoyed by everyone who participated … some four hundred fifty people. Despite the large numbers, we were able to form a caring community, a reality that was visible on many occasions.
There were many vocalists and very good musical groups. People of all ages, young and old alike, participated. The musical and singing groups were composed of priests, sisters, as well as laymen and women.
There was also an opportunity for prayer … adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and some fifteen young priests offered the sacrament of Reconciliation to all those who wished to participate. It was most encouraging to see the large number of young men and women who availed themselves of this opportunity and thus, able to renew their lives. Indeed, it was a time of great blessing.
The preaching on this occasion was extraordinary and all the different forms of preaching were utiilized … people were moved and touched and at various times broke out in loud and extended applause. The message was powerful and important – we must make the Vincentan charisma come alive in our parishes and at the same time, we need to be a forgiving community, that is, we need to pardon those who have offended us … a difficult lesson, but one that is at the very heart of our faith.
We also invited a special guest – a handicapped priest who is confined to a wheelchair and many people benefitted from his preaching, especially young adults.
As always, the musical competition was difficult to judge. Some professional bands were invited to participate and enliven our celebration and we were privileged to have NiemaGOtu, a famous Polish band which has an international reputation.
Many Daughters of Charity participated and they gave beautiful testimony to their faith and their service. Many books were sold in our Vincentian store — religious books as well as historical and cultural books.
The celebration of the Eucharist was presided by: Father Visitor (day 1), the superior of Piekary (day 2) and the rector of seminary (day 3) … Father Pawel Holc was happy to celebrate his nameday during the festival.
Some friends of the seminarians came to Piekary especially to hear the performance of NiemaGOtu which was open to the public.
Now the organizers of this event have already begun a process of evaluation and planning for next year’s celebration. Hopefully, the spiritual fruits will prove to be enduring and we pray that the holy fire of love that enkindled the hearts of the participants will also enflame the hearts of all the members of their family, their friends and all those persons whom they encounter.
Jacek Piotrowski CM – Province of Poland
