For Dehonians in the US Province, this week includes two special moments for expressing gratitude. Thursday, November 28, is American Thanksgiving. Officially it is a day to give thanks for our many blessings, but also a time to be with family, friends, or to simply relax in front of a football game, giving thanks for a day on the couch.
Two days prior, Dehonians commemorate “SCJ Memorial Day.” In 2004 the General Administration established November 26 as SCJ Memorial Day, a time of remembrance for members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart who gave their lives as martyrs. It was on that date in 1964, that Bishop Joseph Wittebols, along with six other SCJs, were martyred in Congo. They were among 28 members of the community who were killed during the country’s Simba Revolution. In total, there are 49 SCJ martyrs.
The day of remembrance has evolved into a more general moment of giving thanks for all deceased members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart; men throughout the world who devoted their lives to the congregation, and in particular, the Dehonian charism.
Click here to access a vigil and related information about SCJ Memoial Day posted on the general website.
A reminder: the Provincial Offices will be closed November 28-29 for Thanksgiving weekend. However, keep in mind that some staff take vacation time on Wednesday.
