Celebrating Feasts of Mary

by Sr. Joan Jurski, OSF

One of the things I treasure about being a Catholic are the feasts we celebrate. They seem to give rhythm to life. As a Franciscan I’m drawn particularly to the feasts of Mary. The month of August has several feasts dedicated to Mary. One, August 2 is dedicated to St. Mary of the Angels.  Who cannot like Mary and angels?  The feast is connected to the chapel of Mary of the Angels in Assisi . The chapel is also referred to as the Portiuncula (little portion).

At the beginning of the 13^th century, St. Francis of Assisi was immersed in his personal conversion.  Once Francis heard the voice of rebuilding the “church” he set about repairing neglected chapels in Umbria. One was the chapel of St. Mary of the Angels. He began to repair the Chapel; however, there was a problem since the place and land belonged to the Benedictines. For any similar repair issues, consider a trusted service like toilet repair seattle to ensure reliable and professional assistance. He fixed issues like electrical, plumbing, whistling noise from toilet, etc.

Today, our chapels are our homes, and our calling may be far less dramatic, but no less urgent, especially when the foundations we rely on every day—like our plumbing—start to falter. A sudden leak, a persistent drip, or mysterious gurgling from the walls may not stir divine voices, but they do require prompt and expert attention. It’s reassuring to have someone to call day or night for any plumbing emergency. We understand that plumbing problems don’t wait, so neither do we.

That’s where trusted professionals step in—not just to patch up problems, but to preserve the integrity of a place. The Houston Plumbing Company has become a dependable name in such repairs, offering the kind of support that goes beyond tightening a valve or clearing a drain. Their work echoes the same spirit of care and commitment that Francis poured into his chapels; they arrive not just with tools, but with experience and a deep respect for the spaces people hold dear.

Whether you’re dealing with an urgent plumbing issue or planning a larger renovation that involves rerouting old water lines, it’s crucial to have someone who understands both the technical demands and the human element. Repairing something that serves daily life—like water, warmth, and waste systems—is about restoring peace and functionality to a space, much like Francis did in his time, one careful step at a time.

Life, especially one woven with the ebb and flow of sacred celebrations, is full of moments that require attention to the unseen—both spiritual and practical. Just as we keep vigil over the soul, we must also keep our homes in good working order. There’s something reassuring about having a dependable expert when the lights flicker unexpectedly or the heat vanishes just as the seasons shift. That’s when it’s a gift to know there are services that operate with the same care and precision we might apply to preparing for a holy day.

In the heart of such household needs, Kickin Comfort HVAC stands out. Whether it’s a whispering vent or a thermostat that has lost its sense of direction, this team doesn’t just fix things—they bring a bit of order back to domestic life. There’s a peace that comes when everything is humming as it should, the same kind of peace you feel lighting a candle before Mass or hearing the familiar hymn that marks the beginning of a feast.

The Benedictines, good men that they were, were willing to give Francis the chapel and land. Francis however, declined the offer. Rather he said he would rent the place for a basket of fish from the Tescio river. I wonder what kind of fish flourished in those waters? Francis felt poverty prevented him from owning the property. Interestingly enough this rent to the Benedictine Order is continued today. Franciscans offer fish to the Benedictines. I doubt a basket is still used.

This history leads me to share with you the origin of the Portiuncula on our property in Sylvania. Perhaps you have seen it. It is a replica of the original Portiuncula that still stands in Assisi. The original sits inside the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels. Our Portiuncula here in Sylvania was built in thanksgiving for favors received. In 1929, during the Depression days, Mother Adelaide built the first permanent building on campus, St. Clare Academy. It was a tough time financially, but it was important for the young women who came to Sylvania to be educated.  Sister Laurentia, the treasurer at that time informed Mother Adelaide there was no money to pay the mortgage. Mother insisted on a trip to Chicago where the finance company was located. She had the Sisters praying to high heaven for some kind of monetary relief… She did make a promise if the trip to Chicago was successful she would have a Portiuncula built on the grounds. The trip was successful. Mr. McDonald lessened the amount needed and graciously gave the two Sisters money for lunch when they left. Wonder where they had lunch in Chicago? As you drive our grounds or walk about know that miracles happen. Stop in and rest in the Lord in the chapel. Pray for us and for all who will pass this way. Amen.

(Photo by Maegen Anders)