Because the schedule is set by the ship, we had Mass at 8:30am this morning. I used the readings of the Chrism Mass and preached on the Eucharist and the Priesthood. There were almost 50 people there, so I consecrated over 100 Hosts; so that I’d have an equal number for the service on Good Friday. I have the Blessed Sacrament in the safe in my room (but do not have a candle burning – not allowed)
I had explained to the staff that we don’t have Mass on Good Friday and that the service that I knew had to be at 8:30 would be “A Good Friday Service”. So the program comes out and it say, “Good Friday Mass”. The people will understand.
Also because it is a long standing custom of mine to visit 7 churches on Holy Thursday; this afternoon, I went on line and make a “virtual” visit to:
St. Matthew’s Cathedral, where I was ordained
St. Anthony’s, where I was baptized
St. Martin’s, where I went to k thru 3rd grade
Immaculate Conception, where my parents were married
St. Camillus, my first parish
St. Michael’s in Ridge, my second and last pastorate
Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, where I live now
I went to each of their web sites and looked at scenes inside the church and I prayed in each of them for all my family and friends. It took 57 minutes (still less than my usual time to drive) but it was worth it.
So know that all of you and your intentions were lifted up while I was on pilgrimage
You were in my thoughts last night as I THOUGHT ABOUT visiting some of the churches I pass on my way home from OLPH. I didn’t stay until the closing of adoration since my “job” is to open the office today and lead Morning Prayer. We will gather at 3 pm and 7 pm as a parish to pray the stations and have “Mass”. Sometimes you just can’t win for loosing!!
Are you at sea today?