Good stuff. Thanks!
Interestingly enough, the Sanctuary has 3 'Middle Eastern' styled alcoves directly behind the altar (you know .... they have those pointed arches). Above the alcoves that house the Tabernacle and the Book of the Gospels, are painted golden ribbons on which are written Middle Eastern 'runes'. Last night, I asked one of the Lebanese parishioners to translate for me what was written above these two arches. He hesitated for a few seconds then told me they were written in Aramaic. The one above the Tabernacle, he 'thinks' says "I am the Bread of Life".
St. Ann is our parish patroness. This entire week, Father has been offering a Novena to her at 7pm. What a beautiful blessing to have an opportunity each day to partake of this Novena, to raise our voices in jubilant prayer and song before the Blessed Sacrament and to kiss a relic from the mother of our own Blessed Mother. Those of us who show up each night are almost predictable. And, yet, tonight I wanted to cry, laugh and rejoice in the familiarity of those faces. We are truly like 'family'.
I can't properly express it in words. Suffice it to say that in such a small community, each person's personal hardships are well known and coveted, as we pray for each other. Sunday's liturgy always culminates with a mini celebration of 'family' when we spend time together in colation. Father always joins us, rendering the moment that much more special.
I feel so truly blessed to be a part of this community, its spirit, structure, commitment to each other. God has surely answered my prayers, in leading me to this humble group of Maronites. To Him be the glory forever!