“The spiritual lives of our families are strengthened through our Holy Hour.” -St. John Paul II
Eucharistic Adoration is a Catholic tradition in which one is in the presence of the exposed Blessed Sacrament. Held in a monstrance, the Body of Christ is stationed in a space, usually the altar or chapel, that allows one to have personal, tranquil, and uninterrupted time with Jesus. The Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament serves as an extension of the adoration and praise given towards the Body and Blood of Christ during the Mass. Humbling ourselves before God, Eucharistic Adoration allows one to acknowledge the strength and almighty power of our Lord and Savior.
During this time of reverence, visitors may pray, recite the rosary, read scripture, offer intentions, or simply sit and be in the presence of the Lord. Open to anyone, God makes his grace available to all his children. From individuals to groups to entire parishes, Eucharistic Adoration is offered to all for petitions and thanksgiving. With the presence of the exposed and physical being of Christ, God reveals his tenderness to us in the silence. Eucharistic Adoration blesses one with a temporary escape from the secular world to bring our struggles before God. Away from the noise and distractions, adoration opens opportunity for healing, guidance, enlightenment, forgiveness, and peace.
Whether attending on a whim, on one’s own schedule, or signing up for a specific guardian time, attending adoration increases one’s involvement in the community of the parish. Furthermore, the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament offers a place in which the community can come together in deep prayer and adoration. Through offering up prayers and intentions, God pours out his love and support to parishes in need. Parishes that become anchored in Christ are able to withstand any challenge, change, or shortcoming. The more we develop this spiritual relationship, the better we get at developing an authentic love of neighbor, thus strengthening the parish family.