Today was supposed to be a special day for Stella and her schoolmates. They were scheduled to have their First Holy Communion. They have been preparing for it since the start of school year. Sadly, due to the current global pandemic we are in, it has been cancelled. Postponed, rather, to a later date.
First Holy Communion is a momentous event for us, Catholics. The thought of finally receiving the symbol of body and blood of Christ in the form of bread and wine is incomprehensible. The excitement to participate in this glorious experience overwhelms the communicants. The anticipation and preparation for several months about its wonderful grace and gift of Holy Communion is a great feeling to behold. For at long last, they get to feel and taste it physically and encounter it spiritually. It is a beautiful celebration.
I let Stella wore her First Holy Communion dress today anyway and did a little photoshoot. Sure, it would be great if it wasn’t postponed but I know and believe that God, who is the Source of all good, has a better plan instore for her later this year.
For Stella and her schoolmates, I am sad too that today felt like you have been robbed from what supposed to be an extra joyful day for you. Your young heart was asked to learn more about patience in these times when it is even hard to do it. I am sorry that you had to learn it early and that this is going to be a part of your Catholic faith history.
On the other hand, I am looking forward for that heavenly day to come. Yes, I am assuming it is going to be a heaven-like experience. Do you remember how you have enduringly wait for that tooth to show up after losing it and when you saw it, you were filled with happiness? Or maybe that feeling when you were waiting for midnight to come so you can open your Christmas gifts? I think it will be like that kind of glee. I imagine an extra laughter, extra smiles, a little tears of joy maybe, and delight on each and everyone of you, most especially the loved ones who guided you through it. The extra grace and hope that you have received while waiting is going to be rewarded greatly on that day. It is going to be an extraordinary occasion. But for now, let us prayerfully wait for that day. I know that your teachers and parish are praying for you. I am joining them in unity in praying for you as you await for it. Hang tight, it’s coming soon. 🙂
Psalm 37:7, Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.
1 Corinthians 11:23-26, For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.