Pilgrims soaked by lake, rain

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With a backdrop of torrential rain, fleeting shots of lightening and, finally, two huge rainbows, the annual blessing of Lac Ste. Anne was enjoyed by thousands of followers who made the pilgrimage this year.

In between bursts of heavy rain and some small hail stones, the lake was blessed on Tuesday, July 25. The sun that finally broke through the cloud in one corner of the dark sky suggested to some that God was present at this annual event, while to others it meant that souls were being taken to heaven. Whatever the explanation of the weather, the cleansing rain and final rainbows added to the spiritual aura of the evening.

The heavy downpour also ensured that the lake was completely full before it was blessed by Bishop Gerry Wienser.

Cars from all over North America covered a large area of the Oblate mission grounds and were interspersed with colorful tents and tarpaulins, open camp-fires and children playing together. For some, the distance they had travelled had truly been a pilgrimage.

The week-long ceremonies planned for the 1995 Lac Ste. Anne Pilgrimage included celebrations of the holy eucharist, candlelight processions, blessings of the sick, confessions, a sobriety pledge, a drum dance and an ordination to the priesthood.

Youth played a large role in this year's gathering with youth group singing, youth rallies and catechism for children.

Because there is a large population of practicing Catholic Natives, and many within the Catholic ministry itself, many of the services can be held in Native tongues, including Stoney, Chipewyan, Dogrib, Cree, Blackfoot and Ojibway.

Visitors each year come along for the healing power of the water, and many elderly and handicapped people make up the numbers who seek help in the form of spiritual healing.

Religious monuments, grave sites, confessional rooms and the open-air cathedral accounted for a "religious feeling" about the area, even though the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers lingered in the air. Those who make the pilgrimage to stay for week-long events are well catered for with facilities including food outlets, showers and restrooms.

At the same time, there is a growing concern about the ear-piercing, hair cuts and leatherware which is available to people who want to cross the "pilgrimage boundary" and shop with those who make up what is commonly known as "the black market." The trading at Lac Ste Anne is a materialistic venture that offends those who treasure the week as something spiritual and holy.