Posted May 14, 2021

St. Gabriel Parish in Philadelphia’s Grays Ferry section got an early start on summer fun with a eucharistic procession, May crowning and picnic in the church’s large yard.

The May 2 gathering followed a 10 a.m. Mass at which the parish unveiled a new shrine to Venerable Matt Talbot, a favorite patron among parishioners and those served by adjacent Our House Ministries.

(All photos by Gina Christian.)

  • A young St. Gabriel parishioner looks on as the May queen prepares to crown the Blessed Mother.

  • Faithful recite prayers before the crowning of the parish’s outdoor statue of Mary.

  • The picnic featured Philly food favorites, plus some lively debate.

  • Kids found refuge from the noonday sun under one of the parish’s sprawling evergreens.

  • Norbertine Father Carl Braschoss, pastor of St. Gabriel, caught up with friends after a busy liturgical morning.

  • Parishioners worked as a team to make the parish’s shrine dedication, procession and picnic a success.

  • Father Douglas McKay, a son of the parish and founder of the adjacent Our House Ministries, shared memories of St. Gabriel with longtime parishioners.