After arriving from our houses around the world, the sisters come together for a joyful dinner in community.The sisters then bring their peaceful joy to the chapel for the office of Compline before retiring for the night.The next morning, before sunrise, the altar is prepared for Holy MassThe singing of the Veni Creator, to call God’s blessings upon these days of ChapterAs the light of dawn begins to glow through the stained-glass windows, Jesus Christ, our true light, comes to us on the altar in the hands of His priestThe sisters await the bus for a community outingArrival at the historic Château de Chantilly, located north of Paris, with some sections dating back to the 16th centuryThe sisters stop to regard beautifully embroidered liturgical vestments.This gorgeous hall has beautiful treasures on all sides. The sisters are particularly drawn to the precious porcelain, silverware, and table settings in the center.The château includes the Condé Museum, one of the finest art collections in France.We were blessed by a wonderful guide who led us throughout the day.The sisters visit the historic stables near the estate.The sisters are led through the château’s sophisticated water systems, which allowed for garden fountains, hydraulic works, and even laundry facilities.A lesson on the time period’s medical treatments, with shelves displaying their historic apothecary urnsAfter the outing, the sisters reunite in the chapel. Here, the office of Compline.Monsignor Gilles Wach, Prior General of the Institute, gives a conference to the sisters.The professed sisters renew their vows.Each sister gives her vows to Monsignor and receives his blessing. The signed vows are then be placed upon the altar.The chant of the Magnificat in thanksgiving to GodA solemn high Mass follows the ceremony. Here, the schola sings the Gregorian chant for the Mass.Many sisters mean many meals to prepare, and many hands to help!After lunch, the sisters sing a choral piece that they prepared for Monsignor.A talk on Gregorian chant from the Institute’s choir masterChant of the Te Deum (traditional hymn of thanksgiving) and Benediction of the Blessed SacramentThe sisters enjoy a familial meal together in recreation.A sister shows everyone the parrot, Clovis, who lives in our house in Brussels, BelgiumThe sisters receive Holy CommunionSpiritual Conference with our Reverend MotherChant repetitionAt dinner, the sisters celebrate the 60th birthday of one sister and the 20th anniversary of vows for another sister.Many sisters have prepared a beautiful hymn in multiple voices.Mass on Sexagesima Sunday celebrated by Monsignor WachSunday Vespers and BenedictionDeo gratias!
