🌹 A Night of Light, Love, and Prayer: The LNS Parish Candlelight Rosary Procession 🌹

This evening, the Lower North Shore Parish community gathered outside St. Thomas Church after the 6pm Vigil Mass for a truly beautiful and faith-filled Candlelight Rosary Procession, an event that will be remembered not only in this month of October, but in our hearts for a long time.

From the moment the first candle was lit, there was a sense of peace and reverence in the air. The gentle glow of hundreds of candles illuminated the evening sky, reflecting the warmth of our prayers and our deep love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. The weather could not have been more perfect - calm, clear, and touched with a golden twilight that seemed to bless the occasion itself.

What made this night even more special was the wonderful turnout. Parishioners from across the Lower North Shore came together in great numbers, joined by friends and visitors from nearby parishes who travelled to share in this devotion. Families, young people, and elderly parishioners walked side by side, united in faith, prayer, and love for Our Lady.

As we prayerfully made our way around the church grounds and surrounding streets, our voices joined together in harmony and devotion. Before, after, and between each decade of the Rosary, the choir and congregation lifted their hearts in song, filling the evening air with beloved Marian hymns. From Ave Maria to Immaculate Mary, every melody became a tender prayer — a beautiful offering of love and praise to our Blessed Mother.

Many participants later shared how moving it was to hear these songs echoing softly through the night, a reminder that Mary continues to guide and comfort us in our journey of faith.

Those who happened to pass by - whether on foot or driving through the area - paused in awe at the sight. The flickering candles, the rosaries in hand, and the serene expressions of those praying together created a powerful witness of faith. Several bystanders expressed their amazement, saying how uplifting it was to see such public devotion and unity among Catholics. Indeed, our procession was more than a tradition - it was a living testimony of love and faith, shining brightly for all to see.

The procession concluded as we returned to St. Thomas Church, where everyone gathered for a final prayer of thanksgiving. In the stillness that followed, we serenaded our Blessed Mother with joyful songs of praise. The sight of the community - candles still glowing, faces illuminated with peace and joy - was truly touching. It was clear that Mary’s gentle presence had touched many hearts that evening.

Framed by the beauty of candlelight and strengthened by the power of prayer, the procession reminded us of something timeless: that devotion to Mary always leads us closer to her Son, Jesus. Each Hail Mary we prayed was not only an act of love for the Mother of God but also a plea for peace, hope, and renewal in our lives and in our world.

As the final notes of our hymns faded and people lingered to share smiles and blessings, one could sense that this was more than an event - it was an encounter with grace. Many left inspired, renewed in their devotion, and filled with gratitude for being part of such a sacred evening.

The Lower North Shore Parish Candlelight Rosary Procession was a radiant expression of our faith - a moment when light overcame darkness, when prayer united hearts, and when love for Mary shone brightly in our community. May her motherly intercession continue to guide and protect our parish as we journey together in Christ’s love.

“Mary, our Mother, lead us ever closer to your Son.” 🌙✨