I’m writing this from Gethsemane Abbey in Kentucky as I pray and reflect on all that makes me grateful. Today, August 22nd, is the Feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a day I will rededicate my priesthood to Mary. I number of years ago, I consecrated my life and ministry to Mary, asking her to guide me and asking her Son to help me to be a good priest and pastor. Today, I recommit myself and my priesthood to the Mother of us all.
It was many years ago that Mary became an important part of my life, through a nun, a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth. My dad was in the hospital and my mom needed someone to watch me as she visited him in the hospital. In those days, around 1960, children were discouraged from visiting a loved one. This nun was also a nurse who volunteered the task of watching me.
She brought me in the chapel, placed me on her lap and talked about Jesus in the tabernacle and His Mother Mary, whose statue was on the left side of the altar. Her words and care touched me deeply, a four or five year old child. A memory that has been a constant companion on my journey and has led me to this reflection. As I sat on her lap, I was enveloped in the gentle folds of her habit. In her arms, I was safe.
On this Feast of the Queenship of Mary, I see Mary wearing, not a crown of glory and power, but a Crown of humility and compassion. She envelops us in the folds of her watchful presence. As I renew my dedication to Mary, praying with a hearty community of Trappist monks, I look to Christ, the High Priest, to be at heart of my ministry and service. Mary always leads us to her Son, who dwells within each of our hearts.
The gift of my priesthood is not only to serve you and gather you at the Eucharist, but to inspire you to become a “living, human tabernacle” of Christ’s Presence to the world. Christ dwells within you in the deepest chamber of your heart. When the heart of Jesus meets your heart, an explosion of love occurs, no less powerful than the divine spark that ignited Creation. When God breathed into the the first human being, humanity and divinity were joined together as the pinnacle of all of Creation. In Christ, we are being recreated to let God’s glory emanate from our beings, healing and uniting all humanity in the folds of Love.
Peace and Joy to you ALL!!
Thank you for your kindness and support of me and my priesthood.