Well this weekend was another full weekend. Along with continuing to prepare for camp, there were many other activities that filled the days.
On Saturday, there was a big celebration in Atchison celebrating Juneteenth. Now for those of you who are unfamiliar with Juneteenth, let me give you a brief description.
Juneteenth is the oldest celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. (As it was known in those days. Unfortunately there is still human trafficking today but that is another post.) Back in 1865, on June 19th, Union soldiers landed in Galveston and reported that the war and slavery had ended. This was over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation but the news was just getting to Texas and for the first time was being enforced. Today Juneteenth is celebrated throughout the United States in many ways but usually with picnics, celebrations and educational activities. Having lived near Galveston for many years before I entered the monastery, I have participated in some wonderful celebrations.
In Atchison, the celebrations was very nice. There was a picnic with food, music, games, inflatables, displays and many other activities. Fortunately, they had glorious weather for the celebration. My favorite part of the day was a free historical tour on the black history of Atchison. Since Atchison was established on the free side of the river, there is a great deal of history to be told. I am embarrassed to say that I am not very knowledgeable about the history and historical sites of Atchison (beyond the obvious Amelia Earhart sites), so the tour was a great introduction to many people, places and events which I am now able to further research. It was a wonderful time and a great way to celebrate. Today was another opportunity for celebration. Sr. Martha is leaving her teaching position at St. Thomas Moore School in Kansas City and is moving back home to the monastery to teach in the elementary school in Atchison. St. Thomas Moore had a nice farewell mass and reception for Sr. Martha and two other individuals who are leaving the parish and school. It was a nice chance for the parish to say goodbye and to wish her well. I was glad I was able to share this event with her. She will be missed but we are glad to have her home.
1 comment:
I enjoyed your comments about Juneteenth. Here in San Antonio, at the San Antonio Express daily newpaper, a very talented columnist named Cary Clack wrote a column about Juneteenth. You might be interested in reading it. It can be found at http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/
columnists/cclack/stories/
MYSA061908.1F.Clack.1cc80bf.html.
Blessings to all at the Mount and may your Leadership Camp be blessed and successful!
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