Becoming A Living Tabernacle

By John Monroe

My first recollection of attending Mass is as a very young child, probably three years old. It was a traditional Sunday Mass in the Latin language with the priest facing the altar, and his back to the congregation. With the changes implemented following the Vatican II Council, for me, Mass became much more of a personal and relatable experience, rather than an event. The priest and congregation were now participating together in prayer that was in the English language.

From my perspective as a lay person, the structure of the Mass is a beautiful series of prayers. These various prayers allow us to ask for forgiveness of our sins, give glory to God, hear the Word of God, profess our faith, witness the consecration of the bread and wine that become the Body and Blood of Christ, and then, express our petitions to our Heavenly Father in the Lord’s Prayer. After this crescendo of prayers, I am ultimately blessed with receiving Holy Communion.  

Now, close to eighty years old, I have learned over the years how much the Mass, and particularly receiving the Eucharist, has changed my life. When I receive the Eucharist, I realize that I have become a human tabernacle with the Body and Blood of Christ flowing within my body. I find great peace in knowing that because of that Presence, I have the opportunity to experience spiritual, physical, mental, emotional healing and well-being.

Another opportunity to experience the Holy Eucharist is through Eucharistic Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. To gaze upon our Lord in the presence of the Host contained in the monstrance brings great peace and tranquility to me. To simply sit with our Lord in visitation and prayer is a very rewarding experience. I am there to adore our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. Therefore, my prayer is very simple as follows: “Dear Jesus, I love You and I adore You. I give You honor, praise and glory.”