| BACK
Probing the power of adoration THE POWER OF HIS PRESENCE: Forming Disciples for Service through
Eucharistic Adoration Reviewed by Mary Claire Gart As the number of adoration chapels multiplies throughout the world, the Mercy Foundation has captured on camera the reasons why so many Catholics—including many local parishioners—are finding time for eucharistic adoration. From students and office workers to pastors, bishops and cardinals, worshipers offer personal testimony about their encounters with Jesus in the sacrament. A laywoman, who began spending lunch hours at a church near her workplace, says the experience transformed her. “I developed a more intimate relationship with Jesus,” she said. At a parish with perpetual adoration, the pastor notes, “If you wake up at 2 o’clock in the morning, you know someone is praying for you then. It’s created a bond between parishioners.” For Archbishop Justin Rigali of St. Louis, the growth of eucharistic adoration can be “a new Pentecost for the church.” Others credit the practice with bridging the age gap, inspiring vocations and encouraging a more active ministry. Cardinal George notes its effect on ministry saying, “One can’t be transformed by Jesus Christ without looking for ways to transform the world.” Parishes hesitant about establishing around-the-clock adoration are encouraged by pastors who respond to the usual questions about security, vandalism and finding enough worshippers for all those hours. At St. Thomas of Canterbury Church in Chicago—where Mass is offered in English, Spanish, Lao and Vietnamese—different languages and customs present no barriers when it comes to eucharistic adoration. “This is one thing we can do together,” says Father Richard Simon, pastor. While not every parish offers 24-hour adoration, many schedule an hour weekly or monthly. As Cardinal George says, “That hour opens up a vista that’s eternal.” For information on the video, call (888) 286-3729.
|