Pearls are the persons I’ve met these last 12 days as I guided the pilgrimage of my brother Victor’s group - members and guests of the Music Ministry of the Presentation Parish, Stockton, CA, USA.Silver were the moments spent together sensing the presence of “Mystery” as the choir sang on the Saturday evening Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica (Nov. 13), in the evening Mass at Regina Pacis, Rome, followed by a mini-concert (Nov. 14) and during the group pilgrimage Mass at the tomb of Blessed James Alberione, Rome (Nov.15). The same “Mystery” accompanied us we met Pope Benedict XVI in the general audience together with thousands of other pilgrims (Nov.17) and during the Eucharist with him and the newly created cardinals at the last consistory (Nov.21). The “Mystery” was present as well in the lives of the Saints whom we "met" during this pilgrimage.
But the most important of all is the Golden chain of love that was created as we interacted with each other, not only during the positive and happy moments, but most of all during the trying moments of "falls" leading to fractures, as well as other moments of disorientation and distress, along the pilgrim way.
May this golden gem of faith and love continue to shine in your lives as you raise your hearts and voices to God and believe in our Lord's loving kindness even as you seek to understand his will and desire especially in the trying moments that come your way.
May this golden gem of faith and love continue to shine in your lives as you raise your hearts and voices to God and believe in our Lord's loving kindness even as you seek to understand his will and desire especially in the trying moments that come your way.
Thank you, Victor and friends, for giving me the opportunity to gather these precious gems. And pardon me please if I let you walk (run?) too fast...
You will always be part of my treasure trove!
Have a holy and happy celebration of Thanksgiving this Thursday!
See some photos of the pilgrimage here
