The big year-end celebration of the...

The big year-end celebration of the Crowning of Mary according to the school rosary apostolate is about to begin. In St Mary's academy gym, Bathurst St., Toronto, dozens of chattering, nervous little girls in protracted white cotton gowns with mopish sashes gather together with a smattering of male childs in varied costumes. Amidst giggles and nervous agitation, the organized confusion deliquesces in and out of a myriad of mini-rehearsals: the story of the Miraculous Medal, the five Luminous Mysteries narrated and acted, a dance for Our Lady.

"I can't believe I'm doing this!!" a stoic-faced girl moans pitifully.