Every night the retired members of the Viatorian Community gather before
Fr. Frank White, 97, enjoys the Mardi Gras party
dinner for their evening prayers. It’s a ritual steeped in tradition, that they have followed every night since they were young novices together.
Besides attending daily Mass in the Province Center chapel, evening vespers gives them another chance to offer thanksgiving, and remember in prayer all of the families and supporters who have asked for their support.
Fr. John Van Wiel
On Fat Tuesday, however, they let their hair down a little.
Thanks to Viatorian Associate Patty Wischnowski, who lived in New Orleans while earning her nursing degree, community members celebrated their first Mardi Gras together.
They donned festive hats and beads before heading to the dining room for a New Orleans-styled feast of shrimp jambalaya
Fr. James Michaletz
and crab cakes, all prepared by Wischnowski.
Fr. John Milton
“We’re all partied
out,” quipped Fr. James Michaletz, CSV. “Now, we’re going to do Lent — in earnest.”