7:29pm: Two priest and a young man holding our Cross of St. James stand at the back of St. Nicholas in Portomarin.
7:30pm: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling echoes throughout the 11th century church, dominated by male voices. The priests then process through a packed church to celebrate Pentecost Mass surrounded by peoples from all nations (as it should be on Pentecost, don’t you think).
It was as amazing as it sounds. It raised the hair on the back of my neck.
A mere 6 hours before, Mass wasn’t even scheduled to be said in the town for the rest of the day. Father Chad had contacted the priest and he had given us permission to have an English Mass for our group at the aforementioned 7:30pm. Then the Spirit got to work. Larry and Father saw people walking up to the church doors. They quickly let them know that Mass would now happen that evening. After fielding these questions for a while, they posted a sign sin scribbled handwriting on the front of the door that let people know that Mass would be said in English tonight.
Apparently, word got around quickly and by the time we arrived 7:20, we had to sit in some of the first few rows since those were the only ones left. Several people just stood against the wall.
Max crushing the 1st reading
A couple of the young men from our group did the readings and spoke with authority and clarity. Father Chris, who has a voice like an angel, sung the Sequence. Then he read the Gospel and gave a great homily. It really was one of the most beautiful Masses that I have been to. Also, unlike a lot of other Masses we go to on the Camino, most everyone received communion. It was inspiring.
It really was the most beautiful moment I have had on the Camino and it was all organized in less than 6 hours. The Advocate was active today in Portomarin!
So happy that my grandsons and son-in-law can be a part of this Holy Trek. Your comments let the rest of us be there in spirit! We are praying for and with you!
Sounds glorious!!! And yes so
Much like the 1st Pentecost!!
Another Pilgrimage was going on from Wichita to Pilsen during the last 4 days–the Fr. Emil Kapaun Pilgrimage. The last 2 days were grueling, with rain, MUD, thunder & lightning–pictures unlike one sees of Chaplain Emil Kapaun carrying his wounded fellow soldier 62 miles over rough terrain during the Korean War. Josie Jirak (Al’s daughter), Travis & Maria Gear (Al’s sister) & their 6 children were among the pilgrims. Coming from the north, Al’s cousin, Ethan Jirak, was among a small group who walked 62 miles from Salina, KS to Pilsen (first time for this). The event concluded with Holy Mass in Pilsen today at 11:00 am. Five priests concelebrated the Mass, the nave of the Church was bursting at the seams with people, with upwards of 150 pilgrims and parishioners in the Church basement. The singing raised the roof, which made the efforts of the choir mere child’s play! The Holy Spirit was indeed alive and visible in so many ways in Pilsen today–also one of the most beautiful liturgical experiences I have had! Happy Birthday, Holy Catholic Church!
ThAnk you for sharing your journey and these uplifting moments. God bless all of you and my prayers for all of you.
Max lectoring warms his grandfather’s heart!