A history of The Saint Anne Procession

The Saint Anne Procession from 1840.

In 1843, Saint Mother Theodore experienced a life-changing moment.

On the way back to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods from France, the ship carrying Saint Mother Theodore nearly overturned.

However, the ship arrived safely. Still, following this, Saint Mother Theodore promised the Sisters of Providence would honor Saint Anne – the patron saint of sailors – into the future.

And they have.

After returning to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Saint Mother Theodore had a small log chapel built in honor of Saint Anne because her prayer was answered for safe passage. But three decades later, the chapel began to collapse. In 1876, a stone structure, which stands to this day, replaced the log chapel. The new structure was lined with shells from the Wabash River.

Thus began the Saint Anne Procession, a tradition that has taken place for more than 170 years.

Above, we have a photo from the 100-year celebration for the Sisters of Providence as they take part in the procession.

Sister Mary Ann Lechner leading the 2015 Saint Anne Procession.

This year, the procession will take place on Monday, July 25, at 4:30 p.m.  All interested in taking part are asked to come to the Providence Community Room at that time. After introductory prayers and a reading, two processions will take place – an inside procession, which will proceed to the Wall Shrine of Saint Anne in the Church of the Immaculate Conception – and another which will travel to the Shell Chapel for prayers.

“This takes place in fulfillment of a vow,” Sister Rosemary Borntrager said. “Mother Theodore promised the sisters would do this.”

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