Thursday, May 10, 2012
Eucharistic Reflection
In observance of Thursday's traditionally Eucharistic focus, here's another thought from Pope Benedict's "Sacrament of Charity" (n. 66) on Eucharistic Adoration:
"The act of adoration outside Mass prolongs and intensifies all that takes place during the liturgical celebration itself. Indeed, "only in adoration can a profound and genuine reception mature. And it is precisely this personal encounter with the Lord that then strengthens the social mission contained in the Eucharist, which seeks to break down not only the walls that separate the Lord and ourselves, but also and especially the walls that separate us from one another."
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4 comments:
Sister, thank you for pointing out the need to read these 'exhortation' letters of our Holy Father.
Two weeks ago, I was asked to speak to the 2nd grade parents (whose children were preparing for First Communion). While in the midst of my research and hunting for new ideas (this is my 3rd year doing this talk), I came upon Papa Ben's letter. What a jewel it is! I spent an entire day copying it into my computer and writing commentary on it.
Then I realized that I was being 'prompted' to act on this letter and to introduce these parents to Adoration.
Our parish recently installed a new tabernacle in our small chapel. There is a small door which opens to a singular lunette that is built into the front of the tabernacle. The lunette contains a solitary consecrated Host. Therefore, if you wish to adore our Lord, you need only to open the small door in order to gaze upon Him.
I knew it would be awkward for the parents to spend too much time before our Lord. Therefore, I instructed them to do a profound bow or to genuflect slowly, make the sign of the cross over their body, and walk silently out of the chapel. They did so -- one at a time -- in silence at first, then I led them in a Litany of Spiritual Communion.
Our pastor and DRE were astonished (in a good way) that I had done this. Even now I am surprised at my bravery. And am in prayer that the parents remember that moment of reverence the next time they are in the chapel on Sunday and use it as a 'crying room' :)
Adoration is such a gift!
Thanks, Stefanie! And if I may be so bold as to draw your attention to it...I have written a book for children's Eucharistic adoration. It offers a prepared guide for three Gospel-centered Holy Hours that are arranged in a way that evokes the Mass, so as to strengthen the association of Mass with adoration, and adoration with Mass, as the Church documents on adoration exhort. Take a look inside the book at http://store.pauline.org/English/Kids/tabid/128/List/0/ProductID/2765/Default.aspx?SortField=ProductName%2CProductName
Great! I've seen that book at the Cathedral's gift shop -- had no idea it was your work.
Just ordered two copies.
I'll use it with my Family RCIA group first at our June & August sessions.
Cathedral gift shop! That's encouraging!
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