Today has provided me with much to reflect on. In the midst of a pandemic, churches are no longer able to offer public Masses, leaving the faithful to turn to technology to help maintain their spiritual life. While there are many other changes to reflect on as well (such as the inability to find toilet paper and how I, as a preschool teacher, provide online learning for my students), I am going to stick with what I have learned today.
In order to maintain some normacy around my Sunday morning routine, I made sure I was up in time for Mass. Showered, dressed in my best, and ready to go…I settled in to live-stream the Mass. It is amazing how just the simple actions of standing and kneeling at the appropriate times can connect me and put me in the mindset of what is going on in the present moment. We even had music at the 10am Mass!
The one thing I noticed is how my home is not fit to be a place of worship. I have always struggled with keeping things organized and clean, much of the time feeling comepletely overwhelmed in even the small things. Experiencing following the Mass live online like I did today has lit my fire a little more in terms of motivation. Next week when I am worshipping in the Mass, I want to feel less distracted by the things in my apartment.
I was blessed today to be able to receive the Holy Eucharist after viewing the Mass live form my home. For half an hour after each that is held, my parish is offering the opportunity to receive Jesus in Holy Communion. We line up outside the Gathering Place on the side walk, waiting our turn in a socially distant way. First step is going in between the two sets of doors to pray the Lord’s Prayer with the Deacon. Then we move to waiting at the door to the sactuary. When it is your turn, you move right inside the sancuary and receive Eucharist from the Priest, as well as a blessing. After, you leave the building and go on your way. It flowed wonderfully and waiting in the cold wind was well worth it.
While I was there, the person in front of me was a high school student who typically altar-serves. He was alone and I heard him say his family was at home. To see a young man there on his own without family there as well is a testament to the beautiful work of the Lord through my parish.
My biggest take away from the homily today was about how if we each share our little lights together, we shine brighter for the world to see. I think of what we are going through these days and I believe that together we will get through the trials that come upon us.
How will you be a light to those around you?
Grace-Filled Hope 