By Sister Catherine (Kits) Sarther, SSND
When Sister Marlene Panko visited me to share the Illinois Sisters' Christmas Memories, I began reminiscing.
My childhood Christmas usually included a special dinner and activities with my mother's family, with the adults playing cards and the children watching TV.
My favorite memory happened on the drive home, though, with the 5 of us piled into the back seat. Our parents sang Christmas carols all the way home for us! It was a kind of family intimacy that was very special.
My first Christmas at Mercy Circle in Chicago this year has also been very special. We had special prayer services for each of the the Sundays in Advent.
We also had excellent entertainment, including the “Heavenly Harpists.”
The Heavenly Harpists shared stories from the WWI Christmas Truce of 1914. Soldiers from both sides - primarily British and German along the Western Front - ceased hostilities.
As they approached each other on the battlefield, the Germans shouted "Don't shoot," and began singing Adeste Fideles. The British soldiers reciprocated with a sign saying "Don't shoot," and their own rendition of the song, O Come All Ye Faithful.
This is a true story. The soldiers got together to share their, cigarettes, and enjoy impromptu games of football How I wish all warring countries could do something like this now!
Another special event at Mercy Circle was a talk by Sister Dianne Bergant, CSA, from CTU (Chicago Theological Union). She gave an Advent Retreat on the Jesse Tree that focused on how David, Ruth and Mary are all ancestors of Jesus
I enjoy living at Mercy Circle immensely. The Mercy Sisters express their joyful feelings at parties, and are appreciative of all special events, from interesting presentations on a variety of topics to days of retreat.
We now have a dog at Mercy Circle. He walked through our front door on a rainy day and looked shaggy but friendly. Initially we though he was a stray, but the owner was found. Duke, now known as the Mercy Circle Dog, brings us lots of happiness.
I am lucky enough to have my own special dog too! When Sister Marlene visits, she often brings her little Shih Tzu, Brandi.
My new home at Mercy Circle has created a joyful Christmas memory for me. Its interesting and relevant presentations, its days of retreat, and its welcoming community have enriched my own life tremendously. I'm so grateful!
