» Archives for Blessed Sacrament

How to Pray: Be Still

Written by on December 18, 2011 - 1 Comment

Let’s go deeper into the subject of how to pray.  In my last post I suggested four steps to help us enter into prayer.  I’d like to explore each of these in more detail in the next few posts.

As we enter into prayer, we first choose to be still.  “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).  That beautiful verse from Psalm 46 is the starting point for prayer; and the verse takes on even more significance as we approach Christmas.

For the next several days, traffic will be crazy and people will be running around finishing their Christmas preparations.  I’ve always found it ironic that this time of year which ought to be the most peaceful–the time that we prepare to celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace–is actually the most hectic.  But in order to truly prepare for Christmas, we must allow our hearts and minds to be still. Read more »

She Preached Without Words

Written by on May 10, 2010 - 10 Comments

“Preach the Gospel; if necessary, use words” (attributed to St. Francis of Assisi)

It was an unexpected, deeply moving, spiritual moment.  That’s how the Lord often works, isn’t it?  He surprises us, teaching us a lesson when we least expect it.

I was Master of Ceremonies for Bishop Tobin at a Confirmation last Thursday evening.  Being a Master of Ceremonies is typical for me, and, truthfully, I don’t expect to be spiritually moved during the ceremonies simply because I’m so focused on making sure everything goes smoothly.

The moment happened after the distribution of Holy Communion.  The congregation had been seated for a few minutes, and the deacon and I were at the altar consolidating the hosts into the ciboria so he could repose the Eucharist in the tabernacle.  Bishop Tobin was standing near the altar as well, and he gestured to me to look out at the congregation.  “Michael,” he said, “there are a couple of women coming forward to receive Communion.” Read more »

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