Invited to the Table

     The past two Saturday's saw twenty-two of our youngsters in the parish receive the Sacrament of the Eucharistic for the first time.  The beauty of the First Holy Communion celebrations is traditionally a high point in the Spring in parishes, and this was no exception here at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton parish.  The youngsters were wonderful - excited, expectant, a little nervous, handsome and beautiful in their suits and dresses, and ready to step up to the Table with their parents and families to welcome Jesus into their lives in this most special way.

     We celebrate First Communion at two special liturgies on Saturday mornings a week apart.  Over the years I have experienced any number of variations to the procedure, but this works best for us here in the parish.  This year both days were lovely, with sunshine and warmth, and the church, decorated still for Easter, set the stage for a memorable event.  I usually invite the First Communicants to join me at the altar for the Eucharistic Prayer, and to bring them up close and to see the excitement in their eyes, is a joy.  And then the moment - "The Body of Christ" ... "Amen" ~~~ "The Blood of Christ" ... "Amen".  They have joined "the grownups" at the "grownup's table" and they will find nourishment for the journey of their lifetime.

     It is one of the great joys of a priest to share these sacramental moments with those called by the Lord, especially the invitation to the table of the Lord.  I told each group at the beginning of the liturgy that

This is the day that the Lord has made,

let us be glad and rejoice in it!