Some of us recently had a wonderful experience firstly at Mass and then at a special dinner and program for the 10-year anniversary of Eucharistic Adoration celebrated at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish. I believe such a ministry accomplishment (10 years of Eucharistic Adoration) deserves some reflection in this pastor's column. It got its start from a small Friday morning charismatic prayer group that was led by Roger Bresnahan (of happy memory). Since I was blessed to share in the start of Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration in Fr Smith around the year 2000 (a ministry that continues there) I was more than happy to work with this prayer group in attempting to start it in this faith filled parish. I had seen the blessings that come to individuals who participate in it, as well as blessings that come to others, including parishes and communities, from people spending at least one hour a week with Jesus exposed in the Monstrance. Truly there are many adorers who could, and perhaps will, share the blessings that they have witnessed themselves. Giving that one hour to the Lord means leaving the day to day activities and worries of our lives in the world (and sometimes bringing those to the Lord) and focusing in on the one who humbled himself to share in our humanity, who showed us the BEST say anyone can live, suffered and died on the cross for the redemption of humanity, and opened the doors to eternal life where we will be surrounded forever by His love & peace. Just think of spending a few minutes of your life with the celebrity you admire the most (living or deceased). That PALES in comparison with the opportunity we have for an hour a week (or any period of time 24/7, seven days a week) with the most celebrated AND worshipped person who has ever lived, and who still lives with us and in everlasting glory. While I was blessed to spend so much time with my mom in her long life (now that she is phsically gone) I long to see her and converse with her and I grieve the fact that it will not be possible again as long as I live in this world. What a blessing to spend time receiving my Lord at Mass at least once a day and spending time with him, the one I love the most AND who is there loving me. Not suprisingly, I have more to say about the blessings and challenges of having Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration in our parish and will continue to do so next week.