Three Weekends Left.
I have found during this journey of spiritual growth and conversion of heart that there are moments when something profound happens, something beyond our efforts or understanding. These moments have been marked by a sense of grace—fully recognizing the divine presence that envelops and guides me. Such was the experience during my Saturday half-day prayer retreat in Week 38 of our ongoing OCIA class.
Attendance for the Saturday retreat was lighter than I anticipated, but it was clear that we came with open hearts and minds, prepared to dive deeper into learning more about prayer and evaluating our spiritual practices. The theme of the day revolved around the notion that, at some point, the grace of God takes over. It's a truly humbling realization—that despite conscious efforts and intentions, there is a force greater than ourselves at work.
One key takeaway from class: It is important to acknowledge that not every follower of Christ attains a saint-like depth of spirituality. However, the goal for each of us is to continually seek this depth, striving for a closer relationship with the divine. This pursuit requires dedication, discipline, and an openness to the workings of grace in our lives.
During the retreat, we explored the concept of prayer through the framework of ACTS: Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. These four types of prayer serve as pillars in our spiritual practice, guiding us in our communication with the sacred. Whether through vocal or mental prayer, we were encouraged to engage with each aspect, allowing our prayers to flow. One particularly illuminating topic focused on the art of iconography, learning that the creation of icons is not merely a form of artistic expression but a deeply spiritual (and commissioned) endeavor. Each stroke of the artist's medium is considered a prayer—a silent communion between the artist and the holy spirit, which reminded me every act, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, can be ingrained with sacrifice and prayer.
As we reflected on the importance of communal prayer, we were also challenged to comprehend the significance of the Mass and Liturgy in our spiritual lives. Coming together as a community to pray is not only a personal practice but a civic duty—an expression of our shared faith and commitment to one another, underscoring the Church's weekly Mass obligation. Catholic prayer as a community and the weekly obligation of Mass holds profound significance in the life of believers. Gathering together in prayer allows individuals to share in the collective worship of God, fostering a sense of unity, fellowship, and spiritual support within the community. The weekly obligation of Mass serves as a sacred commitment to honor and celebrate the Eucharist, the source and summit of the Catholic faith, while also providing a structured opportunity for believers to deepen their relationship with God and each other through communal worship and the reception of the sacraments.
During early morning Mass and our small group sessions in the Cathedral, I was immediately struck by the clearness of my new prescription lenses. The intricate details of the Cathedral, which had previously evaded me, were sharply in focus: a moment of physical revelation, quite literally, as I marveled at the beauty and detail surrounding me. Yet, it wasn't until I joined my small prayer group in the late morning that the true significance of this newfound clarity became apparent. Taking my seat, I glanced at the plaque affixed to the pew and read the words: "Saint Teresa of Calcutta, participated in Holy Mass from this pew on May 11, 1976." In that instant, the impact of time and space washed over me: Here, 48 years later, taking St. Mother Teresa's seat... was humbling and filled me with a profound sense of awe and gratitude. I felt the grace and joy of St. Mother Teresa enveloping me, a further nudge that even amid our everyday lives, we are surrounded by the presence of saints, whose timeless examples can echo across time, continuing to inspire and uplift us.
Closing out Week 38 of OCIA, I am further committed to the idea that my spiritual growth is marked by moments of grace and divine intervention, even when it is uncomfortable. The priest recorded my prayer for the group at the beginning of class and then dissected my words toward the end of class: after years of practice, Berakah prayer is second nature for me.
Rooted in Judaism, the Berakah prayer plays a significant role in the Jewish, and subsequently, Catholic faith, serving as a way to acknowledge the presence of God and to cultivate a sense of gratitude and mindfulness in each facet of life. Through the recitation of prayer, we are encouraged to recognize the divine blessings bestowed upon us, approaching our lives with a spirit of thankfulness and reverence.
Through prayer, reflection, and communal worship, I am continuing to deepen my connection with Christ and my immediate community. My heart is open and ready to receive grace.
In Christ,
Kayla
