Last spring we celebrated 25 years of service in the Archdiocese of Washington. During our 25th anniversary celebration, Cardinal McCarrick spoke at the Mass about his gratitude for our prayers for him and for this city, and at the reception, the outpouring of love from our friends was a tribute to all who have served in this house.

Then on Pentecost Sunday, we attended a special Mass celebrated by Cardinal McCarrick at the National Shrine, a Mass honoring the lay communities and movements. The church was packed; over 3,000 people attended.

The Mass was preceded by a reception organized by The Ecclesial Council of Lay Communities and New Movements, of which I am a member.

A few weeks later we were back at the National Shrine for the Installation Mass of the new ordinary of our diocese, Archbishop Donald Wuerl.

Again the church was packed. My heart leapt for joy as the whole church erupted into applause as our new archbishop entered the church during the Entrance Procession.

The liturgy was marked by a deep joy and simplicity.

This past fall we began having a mom’s morning. It is an opportunity for mothers with infants and young children to come and be at Madonna House.

Sometimes a mom goes up to one of our poustinias and takes a nap, or sometimes one sits quietly in our chapel as she nurses her baby. But most of the time, you find us all, moms and Madonna House staff, sitting on the floor of our dining room chatting as the children play around us.

These occasions—our 25th anniversary celebration, Pentecost Sunday, the Installation Mass for Archbishop Wuerl and our mom’s mornings—are icons of our life in Washington.

Yes, sometimes our life is gray due to the struggle to live the Gospel without compromise. Then, once in a while, a brilliant shaft of light breaks in, and our hearts leap for joy. God is with us!