On Sunday, September 10th, a traditional feast day dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel took place in Melrose, Canada. Over five hundred faithful from Michaelite communities in Canada and the United States gathered to honor the Prince of the Heavenly Hosts. During this solemn event, we celebrated the 45th priesthood anniversary of our confreres, Fr. Jan Burczyk CSMA and Fr. Adam Gabriel CSMA, as well as the 90th birthday of our senior, Fr. Tadeusz Kowalczyk CSMA.

The feast day celebrations began with the prayer of the Angelic Chaplet, led in three languages: Polish, English, and Italian. At this time, priests were available for confession. The focal point of the gathering was the Eucharist, presided over by the jubilarian, Fr. Adam Gabriel CSMA. The occasion's homily was delivered by Fr. Jan Burczyk CSMA, the second jubilarian. The Mass was concelebrated by all the Michaelites serving in the North American Province, headed by Superior Fr. Wacław Chudy CSMA. Diocesan priests and nuns also joined in the communal thanksgiving.

Following the Eucharist, there was a communal Agape meal prepared by scouts and members of the Domestic Church. Tradition dictated the inclusion of doughnuts, grilled sausages, and coffee.

For pilgrims from various localities in Canada and the USA, this was a good opportunity for meeting and sharing experiences. It also offered a chance to meet priests who had previously served in different communities. The event featured an "Angelic Fair," where attendees could purchase souvenirs from Mount Gargano, books, and other devotional items. In the retreat house chapel, there was an opportunity to receive the Scapular of St. Michael the Archangel.

For the North American Province, this is a time of joyful meeting within the Michaelite community: priests, scapular confraternity members, and the faithful connected with our ministry.

Let us give thanks to God for this gathering! We invite you to join us again next year.