Crowning of Our Lady's Statue

Very nearly immediately after the Rosary Walk, Fr. Jack said Mass in the Grotto.

An open air Mass at the Grotto is always lovely.

To hear God's word and to receive His salvific Eucharist in the grandeur of nature - it refreshes the soul.

At the conclusion of Mass Father asked the children join him to process to the statue of Our Lady.

As they moved forward, Fr. Jack gave the girls each the opportunity to carry the pillow upon which the floral crown rested.

Everyone joined in as Father prayed the "Hail Mary."

Hail Mary, Full of Grace, The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruitof thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of death.
Amen.

Before ascending the ladder, Father blessed the crown.

When Father came down from the niche, he led a chorus of "Immaculate Mary."

Immaculate Mary, thy praises we sing;
Who reignest in splendor with Jesus our King.

Ave, ave, ave, Maria!
Ave, ave, Maria!

In heaven, the blessed thy glory proclaim;
On earth we, thy children, invoke thy fair name.

Ave, ave, ave, Maria! ...

All received Father's priestly blessing. Fr. Jack made himself available for individual blessings, too.