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The 21st April was the 90th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In celebration of this wonderful occasion, over 1000 beacons were lit across the United Kingdom starting at 7.00 pm with the Queen lighting the first.
Not wanting to be left out in giving honour to our earthly Sovereign, Papa Stronsay officially registered with the Pageant Master to host a beacon. The beacon was lighted atop one of the Papa Stronsay pier towers. The time assigned by the Pageant Master for the lighting of the Papa Stronsay beacon was 8.30 pm.
Thanks be to God, the weather was perfect as the first of the necessary materials were carried to the tower-top.
Fr Magdala Maria and Br Peter Mary prepare the area with concrete blocks and sand.
Br Seelos Maria, Br Edmund Maria and Fr Magdala Maria lift the frame of the beacon, apparently with much joy!
The fuel to be burned was brought up bit-by-bit to the first tower, then across the wall where it was placed into the beacon.
Confrères arriving from Stronsay in Stella Maris to be present.
Br Peter Mary and Br Seelos Maria building the beacon. Were they perhaps the only Americans to build a Royal Birthday Beacon?
Lastly the flags were hung.
The completed beacon as the sun set, awaiting the appointed hour when it was to be burned in honour of the Queen.
Br Peter Mary, F.SS.R. was nominated to light the beacon as the community sung the national anthem:
God Save the Queen!
Perfect weather to burn the beacon.
Fr Yousef Marie, F.SS.R. sneaks a quick peek over the battlements!
The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer wish Her Majesty a very happy ninetieth birthday, and a happy ninety-first year!
