The Back Page

Last Sunday we welcomed James Thomas into full communion with the Catholic Church.  James began his journey of faith some time ago and actually was born right here in Smithfield.  Today we welcomed Reagan Monaco Berry, daughter of Michael and Sherie, and Ann Katherine Blake, daughter of Andy and Kathleen, and sister of Andrew and Mary Grace, through the sacrament of baptism.  Our prayers and good wishes are with all of you!

 “A common posture, to be observed by all participants, is a sign of the unity of the members of the Christian community gathered for the sacred Liturgy: it both expresses and fosters the intention and spiritual attitude of the participants.”  (GIRM no. 42)  Whether we are here or somewhere else celebrating liturgy, it would serve us well to remember these words from the General Instruction of the Roman Missal.

The last two editions of The Back Page are available on the table at the front door.  Today I will address the communion procession as we prepare to enter our new worship space. 

While the priest is receiving the sacrament, the communion song begins.  “Its purpose is to express the communicants’ union in spirit by means of unity in their voices, to show joy of heart, and to highlight more clearly the ‘communitarian’ nature of the procession to receive communion.”  (no. 86)  We will join the procession, moving forward toward the altar, the symbol of Christ.  This also means we will remain standing until everyone, including the choir has received.  If you are unable to stand, please feel free to sit, but continue lifting your voice in song.  Processing, singing, and receiving, symbolizes for us the connection between celebrating Eucharist and living Eucharist – we are fed at the table of the Lord for each week’s journey.   We eventually move out into the realm of our daily lives where we are to be the body of Christ we have just received.   Once everyone has received, the assembly then sits or kneels, as they wish, for quiet prayer.  You may be accustomed to returning to your seat and praying at that time.  However, it is fitting for us to wait until everyone has come to the table, as we are one body of Christ.  The time for private prayer will still be there – and it will be within the context of sacred silence.  Then the priest will pray aloud the prayer after communion.

About next Sunday:  There will be no 9:00 AM Mass.  We will gather at 2:00 PM for the dedication ceremony.  The Rite of Dedication begins outside in front of the church.  When you arrive, come up to an usher for a copy of the order of service, which will contain all the music for the day.  Food for the reception should be brought over to the church prior to Sunday or that morning.  The church will be opened once the bishop receives the keys, signifying the handing over of the building from those involved in its design and construction.  Together we will enter and proceed to the new worship space where the baptismal font will be blessed.  The ushers will assist you as needed and provide direction.

Let us prepare to celebrate! 

                                                                                 May God bless you this week,

                                                                                                            Joanne