We believe that the Mass is “the source and summit of the Christian life” (
Lumen Gentium #11). It is the highest form of prayer. It is a prayer of praise. It is thanksgiving (the literal meaning of “
Eucharist”). But even further, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass makes present the one sacrifice of Christ our Savior (
Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1330). The Church makes present, in a sacred meal, the pure and holy sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father, for the remission of sin. Heaven and earth meet at this event. It is a place where our deepest prayers rise to the heart of God. And, when we present our open hearts to God in this sacrifice, God then showers us with grace so that we may be assisted in this life.
This bulletin blurb appeared somewhere years ago:
“There is a huge room in heaven filled with boxes of brightly wrapped packages. Many, many gifts for each of us. God will take us to that room when we get to heaven. In surprise we ask God, “Why now?” God will answer us, “They were the gifts I prepared for you while you were on earth. They were waiting for you every weekend at Mass. These are the ones you didn’t pick up. They contain answers to prayers, encouragement, and many of the things you asked for. I had to wait until now to give them to you.” Don’t miss your weekly gift!
And so, the Mass is the most important event during our week. We have the opportunity to encounter all that God wants for us in prayer. We have the privilege of responding, along with the rest of our family of faith, to the One who gave us life, when we are present at such a special event. Next week (August 15) our Diocese is lifting the dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass. Yes, we look forward to gathering every week now in our spiritual home so that we can benefit from all that the Mass has in store for us. Bishop Gainer also states, for those still concerned about gathering in large groups indoors, the following in calling us back to in-person Sunday Mass: “As is always the case, this obligation does not apply to those who are seriously ill, who have a serious health risk, such as those receiving therapies that suppress immunity, as well as those who have serious anxiety because of large groups. Likewise, the obligation does not apply to those who care for loved ones who cannot attend Mass in person (
Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2181). Whenever legitimately excused from Mass on Sundays and Holy Days, you are urged to spend time in prayer, meditating on the Death and Resurrection of the Lord, reading the Sacred Scriptures, and uniting yourself to Christ in His worship of the Father of us all. Also, you are encouraged to view a broadcast of the Mass.” For the full text of Bishop’s letter, go to
www.hbgdiocese.org.
When 2 priests are available here at Saint Joseph’s, we will continue to offer the outdoor “Gazebo Mass” on Saturdays at 4:00 PM and Sundays at 9:45 AM. We will continue to livestream the 9:45 AM Church Mass each week.