Memories That Last A Lifetime

“On that day you will realize that I am in my Father

and you are in me and I in you.”

John 14:20

Throughout the course of a lifetime there are a few significant occasions that we recall vividly: marriage, the birth of our children, and perhaps a special family vacation likely top the list. As we get older, however, the past becomes murkier and details begin to fade, except for the select special events we hold dear to our hearts. Those memories are, thankfully, crystal clear.

This past weekend, 50 St. Michael’s School students further embraced their Catholic faith as they received the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist at their First Holy Communion. At four separate Masses, school and religious education students donned their finest for our Lord: white dresses and veils for the girls, and a suit and tie for the boys. The excitement and energy were palpable as parents and grandparents looked on with overwhelming joy, hope, and gratitude. Although a somewhat different experience, I remember my First Communion explicitly, and I assume most of you do as well.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) describes the seven Sacraments of our Faith: Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation (Sacraments of Initiation), Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick (Sacraments of Healing), and Marriage and Holy Orders (Sacraments of Commitment) as “an outward sign of an inward grace.” While we cannot visibly see the graces God extends to us when receive the Sacraments, the outward expression – white clothing, water, incense, light, scripture, prayers, music – lifts us to a place of beauty and otherworldliness. Perhaps this is why the Sacraments are so memorable. All of our senses are heightened and we are, for a moment in time, separated from our daily routines, open to the gift of God’s grace, and promising to imitate Christ in our daily lives.

Since so few events in our lives are actually retained in our memory, we may question why we allow so much time to get caught up in fairly trivial worries. Restless sleep, anxiety, and stress over issues that may soon be forgotten is time lost that could be spent instead on what is good, joyful, and truly meaningful. Msgr. Neal Dolan, third pastor of our church, often preached about embracing an "Attitude of Gratitude." At times when darkness overtakes our consciousness, turn instead to the moments when Christ blesses us with His love.

Deo Gratias, Kathy