On the first Friday of each month, members of the Order of Malta gather at the Jeanne Jugan Residence of the Little Sisters of the Poor in Somerville for morning liturgy in the Chapel and lunch with the residents.

Fr. Pat Universal extended the warmest of welcomes to all gathered in the chapel on Friday, January 4, 2019, the First Friday of the year at Little Sisters of the Poor. Ray Bastarache proclaimed the readings and the prayers of the faithful. In his homily, Fr. Pat reflected on the holy life of St. Elizabeth Seton.

“Elizabeth Ann Seton is a saint. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton is an American. All of us say this with special joy, and with the intention of honoring the land and the nation from which she sprang forth as the first flower in the calendar of the saints. Elizabeth Ann Seton was wholly American! Rejoice for your glorious daughter. Be proud of her. And know how to preserve her fruitful heritage.” – Pope Paul VI

For the liturgy, the chapel had just over 45 in attendance with many residents, some friends, and many of the Little Sisters. Another group of residents participated in the liturgy, mostly in wheelchairs, on the balcony from the floor above.

Lunch was lobster bisque with crackers, tossed salad and dinner rolls, lemon garlic fish, baked potatoes, green beans and carrots, and tapioca pudding for dessert! The residents then headed off for the usual afternoon activities including: light exercising, bingo, Name that Tune, and Friday Humor/Trivia!

The Order of Malta guests at this month’s event included:

Ray Bastarache, KM

Craig Gibson, KM

Jack Granese, KM

Charley Holden, KM

Kathy Holden, DM

Anne Lindmark, VOL

Emery Maddocks, KM

Joan Maddocks, DM

Ginny Meskell, KM

Harvey Rowe, KM

David Solimine, KM

Newk Stillwell, KM