Something old/something new. South Boston has it all. Yes, there are new buildings and construction going up everywhere around our town. But, the most important structures as far as so many South Bostonians are concerned are the ones that have stood the test of time and provide the memories that last a lifetime and span generations of residents. Of course, the Saint Augustine Chapel and Cemetery is one of those landmarks that mean so much in the most spiritual of ways.
And so it was, as crowds of South Boston residents, current and former, took part in the ceremonies and celebration that heralded the 200th Anniversary of a true symbol of the culture, strength and faith of this neighborhood. It continues to endure even through all the changes taking place.
For 3 days the celebrations and Masses went on. It began on Friday at 8am with the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and the Opening of the Chapel. Each day was filled with prayer, Mass, tours of the Chapel and Cemetery, visits and many other religious themed celebrations. It continued through Saturday and did not end until 4:30pm on Sunday. It was truly a moving and most would say sacred three-day celebration of the faith.
To the crowds of people who turned out for this once in a lifetime and memorable event, it was something that will live in their memories forever. They were part of a gathering of the faithful, who know that they took part in something very special and they did.
The way the Saint Augustine’s Chapel and cemetery has survived and flourished and what it means to so many people of every age, it’s a pretty sure bet that the 300th Anniversary will be celebrated with just as much enthusiasm as it was last weekend.
