Lily Procession 2020 by Upper Sixth’s Daniela
Kilgraston’s Lily Procession is one of the most anticipated events on the school’s calendar not just because it is one of its oldest traditions, but because it marks the beginning of the school’s Christmas period, and is something that students never forget. We were very lucky that we were able to have the Lily Procession despite all of the Covid-19 restrictions and regulations. This year was extra special because it had the twist that only the sixth form pupils were in attendance, and a portion of our procession took place outside so that we were able to sing without worrying about health precautions.
In a year that has been full of disruptions, it was very comforting for the girls to have Kilgraston’s Lily Procession. It is a very special event, even in it’s slightly adapted new format. The Lily Procession is one of Kilgraston’s oldest traditions, in which girls from across the school come together to celebrate and worship the Virgin Mary, our mother, “Mater Admirabilis” who is the role model of the Sacred Heart Schools network. We all hold candles in lanterns to symbolize the light of Jesus in our lives, and process around the chapel whilst singing Latin hymns in praise of Mary, and we offer our prayers to her in the hope that she will guide us and that we can learn from her strength and faithfulness. We wear our formal uniform with long kilts and sashes with mantillas on our heads, and the light from the candles in the darkened chapel made it really special. Kilgraston is one of the very few schools in the world who still hold this tradition, and this makes it all the more special for the staff/girls here.
Unfortunately, we were not able to have visitors to attend, but we were lucky enough to have had the whole event professionally recorded which you can watch here
We are very fortunate that the pandemic was not an impediment to this beautiful and cherished tradition.
Upper Sixth Daniela, Marketing Prefect
You can read more of Daniela’s wonderful insights in life at Kilgraston here.
Kilgraston’s Lily Procession 2020
Kilgraston’s annual Lily Procession took place this weekend, its usual spectacular candlelit ceremony. This year, however, as well as being in the School’s Chapel, our usual location for the event, the service also took place outside.
In a slightly altered service due to COVID restrictions, only specific year groups were able to attend. The pupils carried lanterns and worn lace mantillas, as well as masks this year.
The traditional event marks the start of advent and Lily Processions are celebrated throughout the world as part of the Catholic network’s festive preparations. The traditional ceremony is held at the same time each year to honour Mary, mother of Jesus – Mater Admirabilis. Celebrants learn from Mary by putting their trust in God’s plan and having the courage to stand by their beliefs and values, even when they differ from societal norms.
The Lily Procession is something very special to all Kilgraston girls, past and present and usually we welcome back previous pupils, which we very much hope we can do again in 2021.
You can watch the 2020 Kilgraston Lily Procession below.