On Sunday, November 10, 2024, St. Leonard’s Church in Naremburn celebrated a remarkable milestone with the 20th annual Our Lady of Assumption procession and Mass. This beloved tradition brought together over 250 parishioners from all walks of life, creating a vibrant gathering of faith and unity. The event began with a solemn Mass at 12:30 PM, led by the parish’s three priests, each contributing to the service's spiritual depth and sense of community. The Mass, celebrated in honor of Our Lady of Assumption, resonated deeply with all attendees, setting the tone for the day’s joyful and reflective atmosphere.
Following the Mass, the congregation gathered for the highly anticipated procession. The weather was nothing short of perfect, with blue skies and gentle breezes enhancing the peaceful mood. Parishioners of all ages participated in the procession, from young children to elderly members, forming a multi-generational assembly united in devotion. The statue of Our Lady of Assumption was carefully carried through the church grounds, with families, youth, young adults, and elderly members walking together in reverence. It was truly moving to see the way parishioners supported one another, with older parishioners helping the young, and families walking hand-in-hand, creating a beautiful tableau of faith in action.
As the procession moved forward, the community lifted their voices in song and prayer, honoring Our Lady in a deeply heartfelt manner. The singing, accompanied by the steady rhythm of the procession, echoed through the grounds, filling the space with a spirit of peace and unity. Along the way, families had the chance to take photos with the statue of Our Lady of Assumption, capturing precious moments that would be cherished for years to come. This opportunity to create lasting memories was especially meaningful, adding a personal touch to the day’s proceedings.
After the procession, the celebration continued with refreshments in the church hall, where two special cakes awaited the community. In a delightful addition to the festivities, one of the cakes featured an edible image of Our Lady of Assumption, beautifully designed to reflect the day's theme. The cakes brought an extra layer of joy to the gathering, as families and friends shared slices together, reinforcing the strong sense of fellowship that the event had inspired. The sight of children, parents, and grandparents enjoying a treat together emphasized the communal nature of the celebration.
This year’s Our Lady of Assumption procession and Mass was not only a tribute to the Virgin Mary but also a celebration of two decades of dedicated parish tradition. For 20 years, this procession has brought parishioners together, strengthening bonds within the community and fostering a sense of shared purpose and devotion. This milestone event was a testament to the enduring faith and commitment of the Lower North Shore Parish community, showcasing how traditions can bring light, joy, and connection to everyone involved.
The 20th-anniversary procession was a memorable day filled with faith, friendship, and festivity. We are grateful to all who joined us to honor Our Lady of Assumption and look forward to many more years of this cherished tradition. May Our Lady continue to bless our parish and guide us in faith and unity.
