Being Carried through this Lenten Season on the Wings of Prayer & Song

       At the beginning of this Lenten Season our chaplain, Fr. John, pointed out one of the older Lenten prefaces that summed up the meaning of Lent for him.It really struck me, so I copied it and prayed it daily as a thanksgiving prayer to God for this season, and asked God to bring the Image of the Son to perfection within me and all of us.

         “Father, all-powerful and ever-living God, we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord. Each year you give us this joyful season when we prepare to celebrate the paschal mystery with mind and heart renewed.You give us a spirit of loving reverence for you, our Father, and of willing service to our neighbor. As we recall the great events that gave us new life in Christ, you bring the image of your Son to perfection within us.Now, with angels and archangels, and the whole company of heaven, we sing the unending hymn of praise:  Holy, Holy, Holy!”
       This prayer reminded me that through our working and praying and singing together here at the monastery, God is bringing the image of His Son to perfection within us.When I view the prayer/liturgy bulletin board, I’m aware of how many of the community members assist with the preparation of our liturgies. We take turns assisting the Eucharist Liturgy co-ordinator, Sr. Colleen, especially with the Sunday masses; reflecting on the readings together, choosing the hymns, deciding on minor rituals, reminding the ministers, writing intercessions, welcoming guests, etc. There is the list of lectors for the month and Eucharistic ministers for each day.  For the Liturgy of the Hours, we sign up to preside at the community prayer one day at a time; choosing the hymn and canticles and preparing the intercessions for this most important Work of God.  The Liturgy of the Hours is coordinated by Sr. Christa.
       One of the hymns that has become a favorite of mine, was written by our organist/musician, Sr. Colleen Winston, in 1972 as a reflection on John 1:16. I think it could be our theme song for this Year of Mercy. We have sung it as a round or as a refrain by itself. For me it is a prayer I love to sing.
                        God’s Fullness
           “Of your fullness we have all received our share, love and more love.                                                    Your mercy is ours thru Jesus Christ. 
                                                       Your mercy is ours thru Jesus Christ.”

        May you be carried on through these last holy days of Lent to Easter Joy, on the wings of your favorite prayers and songs of praise, along with your companions on the journey.
                                                                       Sr. Mary Tewes, OSB