OSTON — St. Anthony Shrine here kicked off its 2008 Annual Franciscan Campaign on Ash Wednesday, around the theme, “In This Place.”
Friars, staff and volunteers distributed ashes from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m., as thousands of people streamed through the Shrine all day. John Maganzini, OFM, and Hugh Macsherry, OFM, distributed ashes at Boston’s City Hall, at the request of Mayor Thomas Menino. Shrine staff members and volunteers also distributed information on the campaign to all visitors.
David Convertino, OFM, produced a 2008 Annual Franciscan Campaign brochure and DVD for the kickoff, which was shown at every Mass on Ash Wednesday and on the first Sunday of Lent. Daniel Horan, OFM, provided the photography used in the brochure. The Music Ministry of St. Anthony Shrine, led by Jennifer Galea, provided the soundtrack for the DVD.
Media coverage of Ash Wednesday activities at the Shrine included the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, WHDH-TV, Channel 7 of Boston, and WCVB-TV of Boston.
Reaction to the Annual Campaign DVD has been extremely enthusiastic, as it emotionally presents the many ministries of St. Anthony Shrine, including the Shrine’s 55 Masses per week, 45 hours of reconciliation, Music Ministry, Kids’ Program, Seniors’ Program, Mychal Judge Center for Recovery, evangelization, Bread on the Common Street Ministry for the Homeless, Wellness Center and Lazarus Program.
“The video really captures the essence of St. Anthony Shrine,” said John. “It’s very beautiful. I didn’t realize all that you do,” commented one worshipper. “It made me cry,” said another.
One worshipper who saw the video strongly suggested the Shrine post it on YouTube. You can now find it by going to www.youtube.com and typing in St. Anthony Shrine. Responses on YouTube have also been very positive, with most people commenting on the music at the Shrine.
The 2008 Annual Campaign will continue until its official end on Nov. 23, known at the Shrine as “Amen Sunday.”
— Diane Monaghan is director of development for St. Anthony Shrine.