For many of us Thanksgiving is a special holiday that helps us to reflect on all the things we are grateful for. Often times we’ll celebrate by surrounding ourselves with close family and friends, good food, and light-hearted conversations; and the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (ASCJ) are no different. Each year, the sisters hope to celebrate Thanksgiving together with as many ASCJs as possible.

Their celebration starts with breakfast and mass at the Sacred Heart Manor, located on Mount  Sacred Heart in Hamden, Connecticut. Afterwards, the sisters can choose to remain at the Sacred Heart Manor or to continue the festivities at either Sacred Heart on the Lake in Higganum, Connecticut or at the Sacred Heart private schools in the Bronx borough, New York.  The past two Thanksgivings have been spent in the Bronx, but this year may be spent at the Sacred Heart Manor for a change.

During the afternoon, the sisters enjoy each other’s company and fun activities, such as talent shows, games, and movies. If they are in Higganum, the sisters can enjoy outdoor activities, such as walking and hiking. In the evening everyone gathers for the Thanksgiving dinner. Each convent is responsible for bringing a different part of the dinner or the dessert; usually the host provides the turkey.

They then hold a vesper service, or an evening prayer service that’s part of the Liturgy of the Hours. Finally they conclude their Thanksgiving celebration with feasting on the desserts. They split up the leftovers among each other and then part their separate ways.

When the ASCJs were asked what they’re favorite part about Thanksgiving was, it was clear that spending time together was a common theme. A smiling Sr. Lany Jo Smith had responded, “Being together and being thankful for each other, living in communion with each other, and for the support we all give each other.” Sr. Lany Jo also had noted that she enjoys the beautiful singing that occurs during vespers. Sr. Mary Jane Paolella had denied having a favorite part and simply replied, “I kinda like the whole thing.” Lastly, Sr. Judith Musco had described looking forward to “a Mass of Thanksgiving, spending time with other sisters in good conversations and good company, and also in cooking the Thanksgiving meal.”

No matter how you spend Thanksgiving or who you spend Thanksgiving with, may you spend it in a state of thankfulness, joy, and of a course satisfaction from a savory Thanksgiving meal.