Once again, last year’s Mass in Annunciation was a success and I think it is important to give thanks and to recognize the deacons who participated. John Kelleher, Joe Wall and Billy Donovan are all products of Vinegar Hill and Annunciation School and it is always a joy to see them celebrating the Mass where they grew up and to see their pride. I have known these deacons for fiftyfive to sixty years and it is a great feeling to continue our relationship after all those wonderful years.
Our priests are also from Vinegar Hill and Annunciation Church. We had Father Burke, Father Gallagher and Father Talbot present and we were very fortunate to have them celebrate the Mass. Of course, the singing was magnificent and many thanks to Kerry Swift, who sings like an angel.
Vinegar Hill can be proud of all the great people who came from this neighborhood where there was not great wealth and people had to struggle to make ends meet, but there was great wealth in friendships and community pride.
Since the Mass on May 13th, I have had an opportunity to go back to the church, thanks to John and Ellie Murray who called and said that the crucifix above the altar is now lit after some 60 years. I personally do not remember this but apparently while work was being done on the church, wires were seen and traced and lo and behold the crucifix is now lit. It is quite a sight and everyone will be able to see and admire not only the crucifix but also see how absolutely beautiful the church is. It is hard to put into words since it has now been painted, the altar is pure white, the ceiling is done, and there are new kneelers. Somehow, the church looks bigger.
Jenny and I were honored to bring up the gifts. The memories came flooding back – Baptism, Holy Communion, Confirmation, Marriage.
It was a hot steamy Sunday and the fans were not in place yet, but it was a very satisfying visit to our Annunciation Church.