Reflection and Prayer (Page 11)

Our spiritual walk through Holy Week brings us to Holy Thursday. Today marks the beginning of the Triduum.  There is always only one Mass celebrated on this day and it recalls the Last Supper our Lord had with his apostles.  It also invites us into direct participation in the events of Jesus’ betrayal, trial, crucifixion and eventual death by wickedness and sin. Imagine yourself as one of the chosen Twelve.  You have walked Jesus for 3 years.  You have followed…

Our journey through Holy Week continues and we stand at the eve of Holy Thursday. One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” They paid him thirty pieces of silver. Matthew 26:14-16 Today, as Easter approaches, perhaps we can go through our homes and discard those things that separate us from a personal friendship with Jesus. What is…

Traditionally on this day, priests gather with their Bishop for an extraordinary Mass, the Chrism Mass. They receive the Sacred Oils that will be used throughout the year for the Sacraments of the Church and they renew and reaffirm the promises and commitment to the priesthood made at their ordination. In these extraordinary times, this Mass has been postponed. Pray in a special way for our priests and in thanksgiving for the gift of the Sacraments. Gracious and loving God,…

Holy Monday Reflection – Our journey during this Holy Week continues… Am I a servant of the Lord? At our baptism we were anointed with the Chrism Oil and the Oil of Catechumens. The Oil of Catechumens helps us to ward off evil, avoid temptation and strengthens us to carry the cross of Christ throughout our lives. The fragrant Chrism Oil signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit, the God who animates our life, who gives the courage to boldly…

Palm Sunday Reflection – Holy Week Begins Picture yourself in a crowded square, the temple stands before you. But so do soldiers. Chaos and fear seem to be everywhere. But this is the Passover Festival, and everyone is full of joy and excitement. Their fears are put aside. Suddenly everyone’s voices get louder with excitement and you strain to see why, perhaps pushing your way through the crowd. Sitting on a small donkey is Jesus of Nazareth, the one promised…