When Sister Gertrude fcJ lived ‘in retirement’ in Somers Town, London she animated a lovely custom of gathering young children from St. Aloysius Junior School for a special Good Friday prayer in the Convent. It was much appreciated – no wonder, since Gertrude who, with her loving heart and her skill, knew exactly how to make it a welcoming and meaningful moment for young children.
When we opened the FCJ Spirituality Centre in London we resolved to carry on with that special event. However, Gertrude was no longer here, Covid stopped most Church-going, the Parish Junior School had closed, the local population had moved on and the spark was missing. Sr. Gloria, with her experience of young children came from Poplar to lead the prayer and we persevered with very small numbers for several years.
So, not surprising that we wondered if anyone at all would come this year, though we advertised it to the best of our ability…
Imagine our delight when a lovely little Group turned up – seven youngsters, two much older teenagers and three parents who seemed to enjoy and benefit from it as much as the children. Thank you, Sr Gloria and Christine, FCJ novice, for coming and leading it.
