I have been traveling for work more than usual lately. If the stay is an extended duration, I unpack my suitcase rather than living out of it – blouses, pants and dresses are hung in the closet and undergarments and socks are in a dresser drawer. I “move in.”
But, no matter how long I stay, it’s just not home. The bed isn’t mine. Definitely not the pillows. Neither are the bathroom and living areas. Even though Himself is just a phone call away, he’s not with me.
I have found one place, no matter where I am at, that I feel right where I belong – church.
I know when I through those doors I will see a crucifix, front and center. Also prominent will be the tabernacle. Somewhere will be the Vatican flag.
The most important part, though, is when Mass begins. Regardless of where I am at, what country, what time zone, the readings, the prayers, the order of the liturgy will be the same. The catholic-ness, with a little “c”, is apparent. It is universal.
We bless ourselves in the same manner. We say the same prayers, the same words, though perhaps in a different language.
Our Father who art in heaven.
Padre nuestro que estás en los cielos.
Vater unser im Himmel
* * *
And with your Spirit.
* * *
And with your Spirit.
Y con tu espíritu.
Und mit deinem Geist
* * *
Glory to God in the highest.
* * *
Glory to God in the highest.
Gloria a Dios en el cielo.
Ehre sei Gott in der höchsten
Our faith binds us. We are home.
Do I hear an Amen?
 |
| Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Denver, Colorado |
 |
| Cathedral of St. Mary, Cheyenne, Wyoming |
Amen!! Bryan and I moved many times in the early years of our marriage. Going to Mass always felt like home, no matter what city we were in.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely Amen! I have traveled a lot for work this past year too and feel the same way. It is always SO nice to come home - but being in a church is the next best thing. P.S. I lived in Denver for one year and attended the Cathedral - I love that place! So gorgeous and peaceful.
ReplyDeleteAmen! When I went to Europe last year, I definitely felt it every single time we walked into a church where the Eucharist was present. I've noticed it other times, too, but that was particularly noticeable as nothing seemed familiar, but walking in the the door of the church was home.
ReplyDeleteAmen! This post is perfect.
ReplyDelete