Thus, every time we begin a liturgy, which is an act of the total participation of Christ, in His mystical body the Church, we move from the silence or the cacophony of our everyday life to sound praises to God. 

This particular antiphon is full with things for reflection in prayer. 

In this one line we are reminded that “God is in His holy place”, he unites those who are with Him, and He provides strength for them as well. 

The holy place, is wherever God is, and consequently where holiness resides. Certainly, He dwells in the tabernacle of our church. When receiving Him in the Sacraments He dwells in us. Since at times we cannot be in the Church, we should setup a prayer corner, or a room for prayer, study and meditation. I highly recommend doing so. 

Next, He joins us and unites us simply: those who are with Him, and to one another. In my experience, we who strive to dwell with God are closely united to one another without, at times, the necessity of establishing a relationship because Jesus is the one who las laid the groundwork, therefore we move ahead to communing with others easily. I noticed in my experiences of attending World Youth Days (Poland and Spain), or missioning to people in Eastern Russia, we could commune and share life simply because Christ was our Foundation. 

Lastly, by dwelling in God’s holy place, and sharing His foundation with others, we will be strengthened for the mission He has asked us to colabor with Him . This piece is one of most importance. Mainly because in St. John’s Gospel we realize that Jesus is the vine and we are His branches, and without Him we can do nothing (Cf. John 15:5). He is must give us the strength to grow every day in His love, peace, power and joy and share life of God with others. 

Try this week to realize and pray (1) where God’s holy place is, (2) The unity God provides to his followers, and (3) the particular grace in His strength He gives you. 

Peace in Christ, 

Fr. Joe

St. Bernadette Faith Formation (Religious Education) Department is hosting a fund raiser. We have partnered with Tiny Saints and have the Tiny Saint charms available for purchase. Our current inventory is listed below. Each saint charm is $5. If don't see one or two you would like, let us know and we can order them for you.