Daughters of Charity Plan Bicenntenial

EMMITSBURG, MD ~ February 4, 2008
In 2009, the Sisters of Charity throughout the United States will commemorate two hundred years of history, charity, and dedication that was begun by a small band of young women under the inspiration of Elizabeth Ann Seton. Today, congregations throughout the United States and overseas continue her legacy.

To honor and celebrate the life of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton and her everlasting legacy, the Daughters of Charity Emmitsburg Province are planning activities and events. The Lighting Ceremony on January 4, 2009—the Feast Day of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton —will launch the year-long schedule of events. A major celebration is the Bicentennial reenactment scheduled to begin on Friday, July 31, 2009, through Sunday, August 2, 2009. People of all ages will have many opportunities throughout the year to attend smaller celebrations and special productions.

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Scheduled Events

Opening Cermoinies & Mass
January 4, 2009
Today marks the opening of the Bicentennial Celebration and Feast Day of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton beginning at 2:30 pm in the Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Followed by:

• Unveiling of “One of a Kind” Collage – depicting 200 years of history
• Reception
• Lighting ceremony

Seton Retreats
February 9-14, 2009 ~ Guided Retreat
May 1-3, 2009 ~ Partners in Ministry Retreat
May 16-20, 2009 ~ Pilgrimage from New York area to Baltimore-Emmitsburg
July 10-12, 2009 ~ Partners in Ministry Retreat
November 30 – December 4, 2009 ~ Guided Retreat

Youth Mass
April 30, 2009
Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

Medal Award Ceremony
May 23, 2009
Presentation of Seton Medal to individuals who exemplify the Charism of Charity will be held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg.

Mass of Thanksgiving
July 22, 2009
Mass of Thanksgiving for the Sulpician Community and Daughters of Charity.

Youth Mass
July 2009
Youth Mass for high school and college students.

Celebration Weekend
July 31 – August 2, 2009
Celebration weekend in Emmitsburg

• July 31 ~ Beginning day pilgrimage from Paca Street, Baltimore enroute to Emmitsburg
• July 31 ~ Opening celebration at 7 pm
• August 1 ~ Continuing day pilgrimage from Paca Street, Baltimore arriving in Emmitsburg and followed by breakout sessions and concert in the Basilica
• August 2
• (Morning) Reenactment of Saint Elizabeth Ann’s journey from Mount Saint Mary’s College to the Basilica
• (10 am) Blessing of the Seton Legacy Garden
• (Noon) Celebration Liturgy
• (2 pm) Refreshments

Dedication of Bicentennial Garden
August 2, 2009, 10 am

Celebration Liturgy
August 2, 2009

Special Celebration Liturgy
November 15, 2009
Liturgy by Bishops of the United States Basilica at 4 pm in the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

Closing of the Bicentennial Year
January 4, 2010
Official closing of the Bicentennial Year with Liturgy at 1:30 pm

Check back often as plans are developing rapidly. For Press inquiries, please email the Daughters of Charity.