Hospitality

     Yesterday was the 65th time that the Benedictine Community of Saint Vincent Archabbey hosted "Priests' Day".  This annual event sees the Latrobe Community inviting priests from the local dioceses of Greensburg, Pittsburgh, Altoona-Johnstown and Erie, plus alumni and friends, to join in a relaxing day.  The day began with a concelebrated Mass led by the new bishop of Altoona-Johnstown, Bishop Mark Bartchak.  Joining him at the altar was Auxiliary Bishop William Winter of Pittsburgh, Archabbot Douglas Nowicki and retired Father Abbot Paul Mayer of Saint Vincent, Msgr. Lawrence Persico of the Greensburg Diocese, and Father Earl, the prior and Father Justin, the seminary rector.  I'm not sure how many priests were present, but I'd say at least one hundred.

     Following Mass were refreshments and a sit down luncheon at the Fred Rodgers Center on campus, then a free afternoon which concluded with a cookout on the grounds of the monastery.  The monks of Saint Vincent are noted for their hospitality, and those of us who attended are most grateful.

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     In a reflection on today's Scriptures (Exodus 34: 29 - 35) I am reminded of the old song "You Light Up My Life".  When we speak of heaven, we speak of the "beatific vision" - our seeing God face to face.  This awesome experience transforms us into that glorified state that comes from intimacy with the Creator.  He indeed "lights up our lives" to the degree that we reflect the very glory of God.  He shines forth in us.

    That was what happened to Moses.  After his "one on one" encounter on the mountain top, having conversed with God and received the tablets of the law, he returned to a fearful people.  The skin of his face "had become radiant while he conversed with the Lord".  So awe inspiring and fearful were his looks that he covered his face when among the people, less they become frightened.

     We do not want nor need people to be afraid of us, but are we transformed enough through our relationship with the Almighty that people will recognize the presence of God in us?  Or do we hide?   Do they recognize that we are friends with the one who "lights up our lives"?  That is what it means to be holy, like God.