In the midst of the first snow fall of the season, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity were on the road to St. Henry Parish, Watertown, Wisconsin for an early afternoon Hispanic Sunday Mass. Approaching downtown, the church couldn’t be a more impressive building. Like our religious community, the early congregation was founded by a faithful group of German immigrants. Today, too, it is comprised of a mosaic of multi cultural interests and backgrounds.
On entering the gathering space we were immediately welcomed by a family who were happy to serve in all aspects of liturgy. They were friendly greeters, ushers, readers and passed on important announcements. Fr. Jorge Antonio Miramontes was the presider. A choir of singers and guitarists, rhythm instrumentalists led the congregation of young families. Music was selected from brand new song books. The people were proud of this new purchase.
Along with a bright Christ the King stained glass window to the left of the sanctuary, a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe was strikingly posed to the right of the altar. Sister Carmen Marie Diaz designed a prayer card with a prayer to Our Lady that she passed out to anyone who wanted one after Mass. Indeed the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe will not go by uncelebrated. Plans are in the making in this area to make it a special day. We, too, our anticipating Mary’s feast in many ways.
Our return trip back to Manitowoc began with a bit more snow and lots of wind. We were grateful to the Holy Spirit who carried us to St. Henry’s Church and back home to Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
