Dear All,
Today is Children’s Chapel – an opportunity for our young ones to learn what is expected of them in a sacred space. To learn how to be still in God’s presence which is a bit difficult for our wiggly young ones. Even as adults, it can be challenging to sit for an hour on the hard wood.
In preparing for Children’s Chapel, I was wondering how much children understand about receiving Holy Communion. Then, I wondered how much adults understand about receiving Holy Communion. Or the other sacraments, of which we have seven: Baptism, Holy Eucharist, Confession, Confirmation, Ordination, Marriage, Anointing (sometimes referred erroneously as Last Rites). Do we understand why each one is a sacrament? And who decided it was a sacrament? And what effect is it supposed to have? Sounds like I need to teach a class or two on the sacraments.
One of the points I guess I am trying to make is that we cannot expect a child to understand when, more often than not, we adults do not understand. I’m sure we will have further conversation on this topic in the future.
Today is also Lent Lite – the vestments are rose colored, and we are able to have flowers at the altar. Technically they are not on the altar, they are placed on the reredos, the shelf behind the altar. Today is a day to rejoice and acknowledge we are halfway through the penitential season of Lent.
Despite the challenges of war or shootings at a synagogue or all the other overwhelming issues we are living with now, we still must live with hope and rejoice at the love our God has for every human being. Today we celebrate the love God sent us through Jesus Christ – no greater love exists. Let us remember we are loved and valued. Let us remember that each and every other person is loved and valued – no matter what. Let us be kind. Let us be compassionate. Let us pray for these things, now and always.
Blessings to you and yours,
Karen+