St. Kateri Tekakwitha Committee’s Fallen Leaves Mass & Feast

The 2021 Chanting of Names, Mass & Feast is cancelled due to Covid-19 and rules of Social Distancing. Please use the link on the main page for the Virtual Chanting Of The Names.

This is a Native American Liturgy Mass in Mohawk and English to honor the family, friends and loved ones of Natives and non-Natives who have passed away.  A tall tree, barren of leaves is chosen and placed in the church near the altar.  The names of the deceased are written on tissue paper leaves in autumn colors.  Very small photos can also be attached to the leaves.  A $1.00 donation for each leaf is appreciated, however it is not required.  These leaves are then hung on the tree until it is completely covered transforming the once barren tree into a beautiful blaze of color.  Because there are over 3000 names, the reading of the names to a soft drum beat will begin approximately 2 1/2 hours before the Mass (1:30 PM).  Each name is also placed into a Memorial Booklet that is handed out with a copy of the Mass Booklet to everyone who attends.  After the Mass, a Feast, that is an extension of our Mass, is held in the basement dining facility of St. Lucy’s Church.  Depending on the number of people expected, some of our “Feasts” are held in the auditorium across the street from the church. There is no charge for this Feast but donations are always appreciated.  For more information, contact St. Lucy’s Church at 315-475-7273.

Please note:  During these Native Liturgies a Sacred Smoke Blessing is shared with the congregation.  This consists of a pleasant smelling “cleansing” smoke (in minimal amounts) from a mixture of Sweetgrass, Sage and Cedar that is fanned with feathers to carry our prayers to the Creator.  If you have asthma or other allergies that would be provoked by this smoke, please let someone know and they will try to make accommodations for you.

The St. Kateri Committee is blessed with a 1st Class Relic of St. Kateri Tekakwitha.  This Relic will be made available with a committee member in the St. Kateri Chapel after the Mass for anyone who would like intercessions through the Relic.

The Chapel is located in the room off to the right of the main altar.