April 30, 2014 WBAS Topics Prayer, WBAS Cat Prayers & Reflections, WBAS Topics Virtues & Values, REL Topic- Virtues/Values, REL Asset - Prayer Card
By: Kathy Hendricks
I read a newspaper article the other day about how a Compline service in a large urban cathedral was attracting a large number of young adults. They come with pillows and blankets and sit or lie on the floor enraptured by the chanting and music. The cathedral staff is puzzled by this explosion of interest among a group of people who rarely show their faces at Sunday services. When asked what they find engaging about Compline many refer to the restful atmosphere and beauty of the service. I think they have been wooed by reverence.
If there is a single virtue we need in our culture, it may be this. With irreverent humor as the norm and crass language rife in media and ordinary conversation, the draw to a space of mystery and majesty makes total sense. Isn’t this a deep longing of the soul? Celtic spirituality honors such a thirst perhaps better than any other. The late John O’Donohue captured this understanding in his poetry and reflective writing. “When we walk on the earth with reverence, beauty will decide to trust us. The rushed heart and arrogant mind lack the gentleness and patience to enter that embrace.”
There are moments when I am overcome with reverence. Driving through our neighborhood and sighting deer grazing by the side of the road. Raising the shades and witnessing a rose-tinged sunrise. Absorbing the slow movement of people coming forward for Communion on any given Sunday. Beholding the absolute wonder of being in the presence of people I love. These may not be “cathedral” moments but when I give myself over to them I am overcome with awe and immense gratitude. In fleeting fashion, I experience “real life”, as O’Donohue names it, lying just below the surface and awaken my own thirst for the beauty embedded in it.
Bright Ideas
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Learn more about Saint Brigid, an example of Celtic spirituality, and find activities for your class or family.
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Download my Prayer for Reverence, and use it in your parish or home.