A Holy Journey

The Feast of the Assumption is an important day not only to mark the beginning of our Papal journey, but it marked the 18th anniversary of my Consecration to Our Lady according to St. Louis De Montfort, as I walk through the Church doors, I am struck by its significance.

The first speaker, spoke about being prepared for our September journey, not only physically and mentally, but most importantly - spiritually. To visit our Holy Father in Philadelphia is like Jesus traveling to Jerusalem. A holy sacrifice to enter into and be observed as something sacred.

When making any kind of sacrifice for God, one must be spiritually prepared. It's something I know in my head, but find myself forgetting the importance of this. A memory of my initial consecration preparation fills my thoughts. I am struck by how independent and self-assured I was, when it was suggested that I work with a spiritual director, I thought;"Why, how hard could this be? After all it was just following the reading in the book." With the help of a Priest, that at the time I did not believe was necessary, I quickly realized I was traveling into deep unknown territory and I must learn to discern, ponder and pray about the origins of thoughts, circumstances and impulses.

As the day continued, I realized that we are called to be here. Sure I wanted to see the Pope on American soil, because I am afraid to fly and knew I probably would not make it to Rome. But when I heard the dates of his visit, which happen to coincide with our 25th Wedding anniversary, I knew we had to go. What better way to commemorate our "becoming one" by participating in the World meeting of Families. My husband, however, could think of a lot better ways of celebrating. Knowing me, he agreed to go, just for the weekend Papal Mass. We made our plans and sent in our deposit. It was the best opportunity I was going to get; until we received an email from our Parish Priest asking if we would like to attend the conferences with our Dioceses.

I took it as a sign, as we would literally be in Philadelphia on our anniversary date. A sign from God, for 25 years ago, my soon to be husband took a job in Philadelphia and we relocated shortly before our wedding, it was like coming full circle, going back where it all began. When I explained WHY we should go, my husband rolled his eyes and reluctantly agreed.

As we sit, together, listening to our itinerary, location of our hotel, and how to get through Homeland Security, I saw in my mind's eye, the events of the past 25 years that brought us to this point. Seemingly insignificant events, the joys, sorrows and setbacks...our life led, that brought us to this point. Even now, I have to fight back awe-filled tears.

I turned my attention to the meaning of this significance. This scares me, because usually this means that I am being called to something not yet fully visible to me. My temptation is to resist, retreat, or downplay the event; essentially trying to ignore the spiritual implications. Good thing God is merciful!!

As if on cue, I heard the speaker say, "Do not downplay the spiritual significance of this trip, as you were all called to be here, so however you got here, whether it was your spouse or friend nagging you, turn to them and say "Thank you"." For the Lord has set you here for a purpose and a reason; your job is to open your heart fully and embrace His gift." Couldn't have said it any better myself, as my husband gave me "the look".

After the details were given and we prepared for Mass with the Bishop, one final thing would be required of us to spiritually prepared for this Pilgrimage: SACRIFICE! For the next 39 days, what will we sacrifice to enter fully into the spiritual implications of this trip? Perhaps we coudl attend daily Mass, perhaps start a more regular prayer time, or maybe pray a daily rosary... whatever IT is, is the homework for the next 39 days.

I am feeling, renewed and vigorous, thoughts of how I will prepare, against the backdrop of the consecration, fills my heart with hope and joy as we hear Mass. I am on a spiritual high all the way home.

It wasn't long after I walked in the door that temptations came, and I was confronted with the promise I made to Lord as to what I would sacrifice for this spiritual journey. I almost succumbed.

It is only by God's Grace that I didn't.

I invite you to join me on this journey as I feel compelled to put in writing the spiritual significance of the events as they unfold, to help me discern, ponder and pray about the origins of thoughts, circumstances and impulses.