During three long weeks of trial I was able to have the tremendous consolation of daily Holy Communion. How sweet it was! Jesus spoilt me for a long time, much longer than He did His more faithful brides, for, after the influenza had gone, He came to me daily for several more months and the rest of the community didn't share this joy. I had not asked for any special treatment, but I was most happy to be united each day with my Beloved. I was also allowed to handle the sacred vessels and to prepare the altar linen which was to receive Jesus. I felt that I must be very fervent and I often recalled the words addressed to a deacon: "Be holy, you who carry the vessels of the Lord."
What can I tell you, Mother, of my thanksgiving after Holy Communion–both at that time and always? I have less consolation then than I ever have! And it's very natural, for I don't want Our Lord to visit me for my own satisfaction, but only for His pleasure.
I picture my soul as a patch of bare ground and I beg the Blessed Virgin to clear it of all rubbish (my imperfections) and then build there a vast pavilion fit for heaven and adorn it with her own jewels. Then I invite all the angels and saints to come and sing hymns of love. It seems to me that Jesus is pleased to see Himself received with such magnificence. I share His delight. But it doesn't prevent me from being distracted and feeling sleepy. So I often resolve to continue my thanksgiving throughout the whole day, as I've made it so badly in choir.
Reprinted with permission from Witness Ministries, a lay apostolate dedicated to renewing appreciation for the Mass as the greatest gift which God has given to His beloved spouse, the Church. Their mission is to show how, in the Eucharistic Liturgy, Jesus renews and transforms us–and the world–in His life and love. Their published titles include:
· My Daily Eucharist
· My Daily Eucharist II
· The Mass
· Eucharist God Among Us
· Feast of Faith
· Dying to Live
Witness Ministries
705 S Windsor Ct
Lake Forest, Illinois, 60045
Tel: (847) 735-0556
Tel: (847) 735-0911
