Holy Thursday 2009 ~ Do This in Memory of Me ~ by Ronnie Archer

The Mass of the Lord's Supper began with the procession of the celebrant, along with the "Twelve Apostles" of our parish, who were then seated behind the altar.

The first and second readings were proclaimed by Betty Alexis and Rosemary Overton. The Responsorial Psalm was sung by Diane Neylan, and the Gospel proclaimed by our priest.

The Homily: "DO THIS IN MEMORY OF ME!"

The reason that we assemble year after year on this night is found in the first reading of 1 Corinthians 11:24-25... "Do this in memory of Me." We will do this year after year until the Lord is manifested again!

Jesus knew that all His Glory would be taken away for a time, but not forever. He had hope that it would return. Jesus knew what was going to happen to Him. He wanted to teach the apostles and leave us a symbol of service to each other, so He wrapped a towel around his waist and began to wash the apostles' feet. The towel is a symbol of service to each other and the priest's stole is a symbol of serving God. We are called to experience the Real Body and Blood in our lives. We have to examine ourselves... Do we really receive or do we merely come to be coming?

Christ elevated all people. Priests are usually allowed to say Mass once a day alone, but not on Holy Thursday. There has to be a gathering of His people.

We have to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and do what He did. We were saved by His Precious Blood. We have to return to God because that is where we originated.

After the homily, our priest, assisted by Larry Williford, washed the feet of the "apostles." Led by the choir, the congregation sang "I Surrender All."

Each of the "apostles" were given a certificate, as well as a beautiful crucifix. Our priest told them that during the coming months, he would like for them, as well as himself, to go into the neighboring community to invite people to share our Liturgical celebrations.

Cathy then introduced Wesley Smith to the congregation. Wesley has always been a Catholic, but he recommitted himself to the Lord and the Catholic Church. He was presented with a crucifix also.

During the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the Holy Oils that were blessed this past Monday evening at the Cathedral, were brought up by three of our young people, Robert Fitzgerald, Stanley Glover and Kiyoko Timmons.

As the oils were presented, Ethel Cooley gave a description of the oils and what each is used for. After which the choir and congregation sang two verses of "Balm in Gilead."

After the distribution of Holy Communion and the prayer afterwards, the Blessed Sacrament was transposed to the place of reposition in the rear of the church... in procession with Fr. Andrew, the candle bearers, followed by the congregation.

We were invited to spend some quiet time in prayer with the Blessed Sacrament. Then we departed in silence.


~ Holy Thursday, April 9, 2009 ~