Radiating the Great Miracle

By Cecile F.

On October 21, we had the great joy of celebrating our 20th anniversary of Con-solatio. 

These twenty years have been a grace—an amazing grace! Countless encounters, generous support, and deep friendships have blossomed—all these have been given to us beyond our efforts or our desire to serve. Many friends and some Alumni missionaries joined us that Saturday in New York, in profound thanksgiving for this gift. 

From the prayer that started the festivities to the music and the dance that followed, it was obvious to all that we were not only celebrating “the past” or some kind of achievement, but also a continuous source of life, ever-present here and now. The entire day bore witness to this truth. The beauty of the liturgy provided a glimpse of heaven. The photo exhibit captured the mystery of some of our friends and the sign of Christ’s abiding presence. The wonderful concert and the unity among the musicians, along with the depth of their music, celebrated the richness of our American heritage. The carefully passed hors d’oeuvres and the lovingly displayed food contributed to making the evening a true event.

Everybody seemed to enter so naturally in a simple attitude of gratitude. 

The musicians moved us deeply as they started their program with two folk songs illustrating thanksgiving and memory. Amidst their large repertoire, they put their incredible talent at our service–deciding thus not to be at the center, but to let their music serve Something Else. 

Children joyfully joined in the square dancing. Volunteers graciously helped us serve and attend to our guests all night. On each face, was radiating the great miracle–and the great promise–of these twenty years.