No words can translate the joy in having new Brothers and Sisters enter the House. This Pentecost we had one Novice, one Squire, six Knights/Dames and 13 Brothers and Sisters Professing their faith. The ranks expand. In silence and seclusion we advance, we keep the flame alive, pure and whole.
Many things were said, many wise words of ancient masters were read, the Gospel was recited and Pentecost in Palestine in 33aD was remembered. But none of us was prepared for the moment when the closed doors of our church were not an obstacle for a couple of swallows, one dove and an unidentified other bird who suddenly flown in, rejoicing in a swirled flight, chirping and flapping their wings, in what sounded like the blow of a strong the wind echoing in the silent church. We all looked up and smiled. The dove stayed all night, accompanying those making Vigil. In the early hours of morning, as we prayed the “Veni Creator Spiritus”, the dove was cooing in comfort. After all, it was Pentecost.
Congratulations to new Knights F+ João Gonçalves, KTJ; Fr+ Bruno Correia, KTJ; Fr+ Nelson Rosado, KTJ; F+ Valter Luz, KTJ and Dames S+ Maria José Rocha, DTJ; S+ Maria José Viegas, DTJ. Congratulations to new the new Commander of Lisbon – Chagas, Fr+ Fernando Silva, KGOTJ, also installed as Grand Master of Ceremonies. Congratulations to Fr+ Paulo Fernandes, KGOTJ, installed as Grand Seneschal.
