On Sept. 8, 2007, St. Matthew pilgrims enjoyed a spectacular summer day at the Franciscan Monastary in Kennebunkport.

Sept. 8th was the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and a Mass was celebrated in her honor at St. Anthony’s Chapel. 

The 60 acre estate offers extensive walking paths, through gardens, woodland, by river and harbor. Outdoor chapels offered settings for the Rosary and the Stations.

A picnic and good company topped off this joy filled day!

The birth of Mary became a source of great joy for Joachim, Mary’s father. According to the words of the Angel to Joachim: "Joachim, rejoice! God has heard your prayer and your wife Anna shall conceive and give birth to a daughter, whose nativity will become joy for the entire world." Consequently, the feast is celebrated in the spirit of general rejoicing and exaltation.

The celebration of Mary's nativity was established on September 8, since on that day the basilica in honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary was dedicated in Jerusalem.

The day of the Nativity of the Mother of God is a day of universal joy, because through the Mother of God, the entire human race was renewed.