The church year is wonderful and full of celebrations. Having celebrated the Feast of the Blessed Trinity, I could not help but remember the way a friend once taught me to say the ‘Glory Be’.
I was encouraged to say: “BE Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit”. I pray I can live up to that version!
Someone who has truly been glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is Mary. I recently conducted a retreat day at Enders Island with the theme of “Mary: The First Tabernacle”. It was very timely and appreciated by the participants, as we are coming to the end of the year of Eucharistic Revival for the Parish. The feast of Corpus Christi leads us into the third year of the Eucharist Revival with the theme of Going Forth, Being Mission.
During my research for the retreat, I found a wonderful statement that resonated deeply with me. It read: “Mary’s journey to Elizabeth was the first Eucharistic procession.” Wow! Isn’t that powerful?
As this specific year of Eucharistic Revival comes to a close, that quote really struck me. In my daily comings and goings, do I bring the Jesus within me to others, or am I in too much of a hurry?
Perhaps I might be the only ‘God’ presence the person may experience. What helps me remember that I am taking Jesus with me no matter where I go? If I am always rushing, how can I slow down? What helps me remain aware that in being the face of Jesus, I am to be the face of compassion and understanding?
If Mary was the First Eucharistic procession, then I am presently the continuation of the same. How well do I express it? Do I have a smile on my face, kindness and compassion in my heart, and purpose in my soul?
Only you can answer those questions for yourself.
Just found this quote from Muhammad Ali that speaks of the theme of the third year of the Eucharistic Revival Year of Mission: “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth”.
Be of service and bring the love of the Eucharist to all.
Spend time this week noticing how you bring Jesus to others. Each step taken towards another is bringing Jesus closer to them, after all. Perhaps they will even bring Jesus to YOU!
Till next week.
Sister Theresita
