St. Stanislaus collaborated with the Basilica of St. Josephat in a glorious celebration in honor of All Hallows’ Eve on October 31. Surrounded by the relics of hundreds of saints, Milwaukee auxiliary Bishop, Jeffrey Haines, joined priests, seminarians and choir who opened the evening together at St. Stanislaus church with solemn Vespers at the high altar, presided over by Canon Benoit Jayr, rector of St. Stanislaus.
As Vespers ended, the congregation – including many children dressed in the costumes of their favorite saints – flooded out onto the street. The altar servers and seminarians led a litter, adorned with multiple sparking reliquaries, into candlelight procession to the Basilica of St. Josephat. These were followed by the Bishop and priests – all carrying relics – and finally the congregation. The Litany of the Saints was chanted as the procession advanced nearly a mile through the twilight of the city streets.
After reaching the Basilica, Bishop Haines addressed the congregation in a beautiful and detailed explanation of All Hallow’s Eve. Then Fr. Bob Cook, OFM Conventual, pastor of St. Josephat, presided over solemn Eucharistic Benediction.
The evening ended as participants enjoyed refreshments together at the Basilica school cafeteria. This magnificent and joyful event led all who participated to a greater appreciation of the mystery and beauty of All Hallows’ Eve.
