On Saturday, June 24th, members of the Scranton Area celebrated the Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, the Patron Saint of our Order. Knights and Dames began the day at St. Paul’s Church with Confessions followed by the Rosary, led by Area Co-Chair Dr. Dennis Dawgert. Dr. Dawgert read reflections of Venerable Patrick Peyton, one of the local priests and religious that are advancing toward Sainthood.

Father Pio Mandato concelebrated the Healing Mass with Rev. Msgr. Neil Van Loon, ChM, which was followed by Blessing of the Sick in a traditional anointing with oil, and an additional blessing with a stigmata worn glove from Saint Padre Pio. Members wore their Lourdes work uniforms to illustrate their service to the sick.

After Mass, Malades and their families, Knights, Dames and prospective members of the Order enjoyed dinner together in the Rose Room of Brennan Hall at the University of Scranton, where memories of our pilgrimages to Lourdes and Champion were shared.