On Retreat

Saint Mary-or-the-Woods, IN

I'll be on retreat starting tomorrow at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.  I'll be back next week.  Pray for me as I pray for you!

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God!

Cathy

~~Mosaic/Macro Monday~~Month of Thanksgiving~~

   

Saint Mary-of-the Woods



ON HOLY GROUND

View from the foothills in Colorado

June, 2010

The words escape me today.  I have just returned from the dedication of a new church.  St. Clements.  It  has a history of 130 years and now it has a new place of worship.  Participating in the celebration of this members of this church I was in awe of the two thousand years of tradition that was extended through the people of God at St. Clements. 

As the bishop blessed the water I was reminded of my baptism.  As he poured the chrism oil on the altar to anoint it, I was reminded that it becomes a symbol of Christ.  He anointed the walls that the church building would be given over entirely and forever to Christian worship.  And again I was reminded of my anointing, first at Baptism and then at  Confirmation, and my call to be a temple of the Holy Spirit.  And oh, the wonderful aroma of incense reminded me that sacrifices offered in this holy space ascends to God in heaven.  It is also a sign that our prayers rise up pleasing and acceptable to God in the sincerity of our praise and worship. 

With guest priests gathered around this newly anointed alter the bishop offered Mass for the first time.   The choir sang in exaltation and I thought, "Heaven!"  Believing that I am part of a glorious tradition with a legacy that transcends time and space,  I am so grateful to have had the privilege of witnessing this event.  To the People of St. Clements I say congratulation and well done.  

~~~^j^~~~

Thanks be to God! 

And, oh, the words didn't escape me for long...I also thought I'd share with you other places  today I see as Holy Ground.

Now visit Mary at The Little Red House and share in the beauty offered there.   Lisa at  Macro Monday  also has much to offer.  The pictures are grand.

If you would be kind enough to stop by Tamara's to offer your reason for thanks at Branch of Wisdom. She is hosting A Month of Thanksgiving I'm sure you will find some delightful and wonderful words of wisdom, praise and gratitude.