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Without a Priest

We were unexpectedly without a priest yesterday. That was the first time I experienced that. (I've attended Communion Services before, but they were planned as such.) There were 2 big things I noticed: 1) how beautifully, lovingly, and competently we all pulled together and were able to adjust graciously and efficaciously, and 2) even so, how obviously we missed witnessing the consecration. I had to think of the communities (in other countries?) who have had to experience months of this. I was a Mennonite before I became Catholic at age 25. When I was baptized I was filled w/ joy. But I never really accepted the Mennonite teaching that communion was "just a symbol" (and their understanding of 'symbol' is also altogether different). I LONGED to come to the Table of Christ; I LONGED for full communion w/ Him. When I "discovered" the Mass (as a grad student in Madison, WI), I knew I had found Him; I knew I was Home. I wish everyone in the whole world could understand how precious the Eucharist is and what a grace that the Lord gives us Himself this way.

 I posted the above as a comment on Facebook, but decided to post it here also.  It really was a remarkable experience to find ourselves suddenly w/out a priest.  It was good to know how well we minister together even without a priest, but I hope we don't have to be without the full Mass very often!
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