A friend went to a talk at a Catholic church. The priest-speaker was rather loud, boisterous and animated throughout his talk which definitely kept the audience captivated, but it was exhausting to listen to him. 

At the end of the talk, the priest-speaker mentioned that he had a Franciscan habit that belonged to St. Padre Pio. The participants were invited to come forth and venerate the habit and touch the plastic bag which housed it. The priest-speaker also blessed each participant with the habit as they left the area. 

As my friend walked away, he noticed a distinct smell of roses. He asked the people around him if they smelled it, and they did not. He says that he has never had such an experience. 

As he left the church following the talk and venerating St. Pio's habit, he noticed an eerie silence. No car noises, no birds, no talk: no sounds at all surrounded him. All he could do was keep walking, alone with his own thoughts. 

But was he really alone? Was the presence of a mystic with him? As the smell of roses lingered, and the serene peace of the outdoors enveloped him, there was no doubt. 

St. Padre Pio, pray for us. 

TAGS: Story

"No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light." - Luke 8:16 

Three objects set in a row. All perfectly matched, intricately styled, and embellished with raised curves and shapes. Looking at the shiny gold luster evokes a sense of ornateness, wealth and richness. The classic and timeless Gothic design is meant to add beauty and elegance to the prayer experience. 

Indeed they do. The bases of these brass stands enhance the symbolism of the crucifix and the light of the candles which they behold. 

We could set the crucifix on a box and light candles in plastic cups. The simplicity of this act would convey a message of its own. 

But choosing to display the crucifix in all its finery glorifies the Lord in all His magnificence. The light of Christ shines visibly and brighter when lifted up close to Heaven. 

Glory Be to the Father. Amen! 

TAGS: Prayer, Reflection