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HIGH POINT — Many gathered to celebrate 18 years of Perpetual Adoration at Pennybyrn at Maryfield in High Point on June 10. A 1 p.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Emeritus William Curlin on this feast day of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ seemed a perfect way to embrace this gift at Maryfield.

"It is a blessing, it is a gift," said Sister Lucy Hennessy, SMG, chairman of the Board of Directors, about the opportunity of housing the Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration Chapel at Maryfield for the past 18 years.

Pictured: Bishop Emeritus WilliamCurlin leads Eucharistic Adoration at the Perpetual Adoration Chapel at Maryfield. The chapel has offered Perpetual Adoration for 18 years. (Photos by Georgianna Penn, Catholic News Herald)

Founded by the Sisters of the Poor Servants of the Mother of God, Maryfield began as a 22-bed Catholic nursing home in 1947. Maryfield is now known as one of the top providers of long-term care in the Triad and is a thriving Catholic retirement community.

Maryfield has many assets to its unique culture of care. It was the first retirement community in North Carolina to establish itself as a "household model" of care which, along with many other aspects, means that residents live in neighborhoods. There is an independent living neighborhood with streets, yards, duplexes and houses; an assisted living neighborhood, Taylor Village, comprised of condo-style apartments; and even the health care unit is no unit at all. It is made up of several households, each of which has its own kitchen, dining room, den, back garden, front porch, personal cooks and compassionate nursing care.

"Miracles happen here," shared Edna Corrigan, a long-time friend and supporter of Maryfield.

Corrigan and many others have given much of themselves to Maryfield, but it is what Maryfield gives to them that uplifts their hearts.

Group photo of friends of Maryfield with the Sisters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul alongside the Sisters Poor Servants of the Mother of God, both of which have communities in High Point."When we have the sense of God in us, things change," Bishop Curlin shared during his homily. He said it is through the Eucharist that this happens. "Heaven in me, Heaven in us, that's what we're celebrating today," he joyfully proclaimed. "We see things not with these eyes, but with the heart."

The chapel was filled for the special Mass, with folding chairs lining the outside isles. Many priests, deacons and women religious were there for this glorious day.

Along with an Irish blessing, Bishop Curlin gave a heartfelt thanks to the families and residents who attended, the first Communicants who dropped fresh rose pedals during the Eucharistic procession, the Knights of Columbus, and to the never-ending dedication of the sisters from Ireland whose gift of compassion has sustained this special place.

The day ended with a reception in Norcross Square, a special meeting place between the health care households, a place where friends meet, a place where miracles happen and a place where the "Heaven in us" is celebrated.

To visit Pennybyrn at Maryfield, volunteer or adore, call 336-821-4050 or go to www.pennybyrnatmaryfield.org for more information.

— Georgianna Penn, correspondent