Last Sunday was a blessed day. The extended family gathered together to celebrate Sierra, my oldest grandaughter's, First Holy Communion at St. John Newumann's Church. As Sierra prepared for this spiritual event, the family gathered together. Only one person was missing. It was my husband who passed away a month earlier. With love in my heart, I found a way to have Richard present at both the Church ceremony and the after Mass celebration. Sounds impossible? Read on!
The banner that you see below was originally created by my mother for my granddaughter. I wanted to include my husband, Richard, into the artistic piece that was placed at the end of each reserved family pew. Under the section with Sierra's name, I added a piece of Richard's purple tie. Since Sierra loves the color purple it was a perfect fit. You can also see the edge of another purple border at the bottom. I felt Richard's presence with the family on Sierra's First Communion day. He was with us in spirit and within the banner.
for my First Holy Communion
a handcrafted banner was embellished
using one of Grandpa's beautiful ties
Grandma placed it at the edge of the pew
as a reminder that Grandpa was still with us
a gift filled with blessings
©CVarsalona, 2025, cherita poem
Easter lilies adorn the sacred space
the first communicant does smile
while posing with angelic grace
Easter lilies adorn the sacred space
dressed in tulled-white the child does embrace
a flower bouquet with tussy-mussy style
Easter lilies adorn the sacred space
the first communicant does smile
©CVarsalona, 2025, triolet poem draft
The above triolet poem is the 1st one I have penned.
You can read more about this poetic format here.
Time together as a family is a gift. -Joanna Gaines
Although it is late for me to submit my Poetry Friday post,
I have thought all week about memorializing Sierra's special day
while remembering my husband.
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Thank you Sarah Grace Tuttle for hosting the Poetry Friday Roundup. She is smiling as she combats darkness by reveling in community and this is wonderful.
Tonight is Family Night so I will check in with Poetry Friday writer when I come home.
