One hundred twenty-five years ago, the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament expanded south from its ministry in Canada to establish roots in the United States. Founded by St. Peter Julian Eymard in Paris in 1856, the congregation was established in January 1900 in New York. The Province of St. Ann moved to Cleveland in 1931, relocating to Highland Heights in 1953, when St. Paschal Baylon Parish was founded and placed in the congregation’s care. The provincial offices and Shrine of St. Ann, named for the province, are based on the property.
Bishop Edward Malesic joined the congregation for a Mass celebrating their 125th anniversary at St. Paschal Baylon on Aug. 7. He also thanked Father John Thomas Lane, SSS, provincial superior, for his leadership.
(See photo gallery above.)
Father Lane, who also serves as St. Paschal pastor, Father Benzi Philip Romician, SSS, superior general (a native of India), other congregational leaders, priests, brothers, deacons, priests, religious sisters, lay and associate members of the congregation were on hand for the liturgy.
“I am thrilled to be here for this special occasion,” the bishop said. After lifting the Book of the Gospels to bless the congregation, he commented that he was told it was heavy. “The words of the Gospel are heavy, too, but they lighten the load.”
He commended the congregation for its 125 years of devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. “You show us what is most important,” he said. “It is essential to stay connected to Christ, who is in us and we are in him … Christ is our lifeblood … You are doing the work of the Eucharistic Revival here. Keep up the excellent work. Keep the Eucharist alive in us.”
Father Lane offered his thanks to the congregation’s members, associates, lay people and others for their support over the years. He noted the liturgy was being livestreamed so Blessed Sacrament members around the world could view it. The congregation is active in 30 countries worldwide.
At the reception following the Mass, Father Lane asked for prayers and best wishes for Father Roger Bourgeouis, St. Ann Shrine chaplain, for whom the congregation had begun a novena to celebrate his 95th birthday. Father Bourgeouis cut a large cake that was shared with attendees.
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