Easter Vigil 2023

 

The Jesuit Vocations Australia Facebook page contains photos and a report of the Easter Vigil at Sevenhill .  The Vigil begins around an outdoor fire in the dark night and is the most important celebration of the liturgical year. The blessing and lighting of the Paschal Candle recalls Jesus passing from death to life.  As the congregation walks with the Paschal Candle through the dark night and into the church, we recall that the Risen Jesus is always offering us his bright presence, particularly in those times when we feel like we are in the darkness

 

At the 2023 Easter Vigil at St Aloysius’ Church, Sevenhill, Fr Kieran noted that Br George Sadler SJ had died on that day, 8 April, in 1865. Having worked at Sevenhill for over 10 years, he was hit on the head by a stone while blasting rocks for use in the construction of the Sevenhill Church and College. He died the next day. Br Sadler was the first Jesuit to be buried in the crypt of St Aloysius' Church. Fr Kieran said, “Because of the Resurrection of Jesus…, the crypt and all places of burial are signs of hope in the abundant life of the world to come.” In this 175th year since the arrival of the Jesuits in the Clare Valley and the establishment of the first Jesuit community in Australia, we give thanks for their mission which continues today in our parish, retreat centre and winery.