There’s a special place I know where Jesus is waiting for us to come and visit a while, to stop for a minute or two (or longer), to meet with Him face-to-face and to know without a doubt that we have His undivided attention.
It doesn’t cost a penny. We don’t need an appointment or have to be all dressed up. It pleases Jesus that we just desire to spend some time with Him.
Jesus waits patiently to receive all those who come every day and night to this special place. Under the appearance of bread, He is God our Savior, exposed and vulnerable on the altar, loving all who come to see Him.
People from all walks of life and every culture come. Miraculously, Jesus can commune with each person as if they are the only ones there. Sometimes we are just so awed by Jesus’ goodness that we simply fall on our knees and adore Him. Other times we may need to express sorrow for something that’s been nagging at us. Sorting it out with Jesus and asking for forgiveness may give us the necessary grace to make a sacramental confession.
Often we give heartfelt thanks for all the blessings, gifts and favors we have received in our life. We also have petitions to humbly lay before Jesus: people to forgive, hurting hearts to be consoled, health concerns for ourselves and others, financial burdens, relationships to mend, just to name a few.
In this special place Jesus loves to whisper hopeful thoughts into our hearts. Our burdens seem lighter because we have shared them with Someone who really cares.
You may have guessed this special place is the Adoration Chapel at St. Gabriel Church. You are invited to come and see for yourself. There is a spot available just for you.
Patricia Hennessy lives in Charlotte.
At Mass Sept. 2 we began with singing the hymn “The Church’s One Foundation.”
However, the Church’s foundation appears to have significant fissures. Our quixotic pope (no judgment, just an observation on my part), is neglecting the needs of the Church Jesus established.
The underground Church in China has been undermined. Ambiguous statements on divorce/remarriage, homosexual unions, non-Catholics receiving the Holy Eucharist, and the failure to reform and properly address priestly sexual abuse do not reinforce traditional Church teaching.
Pope Francis needs to render to God and not Caesar. The Church must come first! A watered-down teaching of Catholic teaching serves no one. Let us pray: Our Father...
William J. Barker lives in Charlotte.