Tonight we said mass for Thomas who is not well and living in the Czech Republic. His sister joined us and we celebrated the mass at the same time as the family was celebrating mass in the Czech Republic. What was happening in that double celebration and in what sense were we connecting with Thomas? As we gathered at the altar it seemed to me that there is a sense in which we step into a timeless space and also a 'placeless space.' This celebration, happening at the same time in two places, reminds us of the deep reality of the risen Jesus who is present in all places and in all times. Therefore by being "In Christ" at the mass we are deeply connected to both the past and the future as well as to every place.
By engaging with the risen Christ at mass we also touch the places where the cross and resurrection are moving as an invitation to life. That flow of Easter energy connects people to those who have yet to be born, to those in need at present and to those who have gone before to the fullness of resurrection. Therefore the mass takes us all into a different dimension where space and time collapse to a single point in Christ and where we are one with each other and with the Risen Christ. As the host is raised up, the bread broken and the wine is poured all of creation is drawn up into that drama of dying and rising. Standing around the altar as a community that night it was as if we had discovered roots that ran deep into a common reality in Christ. We belonged together around the altar but we also belonged with all people of all time and forever.
So in focussing on Thomas and a simultaneous mass in the Czech Republic we were only making specific something that happens mystically in every mass; we were connecting with all life and creation. It's just that this time it was with Thomas in mind.
A series of reflections on spirituality, religious life and work with young people from a Salesian priest and youth worker in Great Britain.
Thanks, David, for your reflections. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to be physically with you but I was with you in spirit. At the same time you were celebrating Mass in Bollington, I was at Mass at Westminster Cathedral in London. Like yourself, I definitely had an experience of being part of a much greater reality in Christ. The Mass was a mix of mostly English but with sung responses in Latin. The choir was very good; although one sounded like he was being strangled at times. I think his high pitched squeels were reflective of Lenten anguish. Atleast I hope that was the case! In the seats around me were people from Asia, Africa, and many parts of London. Some were materially wealthy, others not so. They were young and old, women and men. The priest was Italian. His sermon was all about loving in Christ. A love that is tested through the pain and challenges of living. A love that, through faith and hope, leads to resurrection and new possibilities. Like you, I pray that this is indeed the experience for Thomas and his family.
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