After a strange month of scheduling conflicts and a crowded calendar my drive to Rayburn Correctional tonight was filled with anticipation. I have not been with the men in almost a month. I planned my whole day so I could get there plenty early enough. Then some real bad weather moved through the area and reports of a small tornado in the general direction of between where I was and where I was going. Thankfully, the weather broke and I had smooth sailing to the prison. And as is always the case, my Wednesday night inside Rayburn Correctional did not disappoint. I even had a really nice turnout with almost 40 men in attendance.
And I am always amazed at how happy they genuinely seem to be that I am there to spend the evening with them. I certainly recognize that in bringing Jesus to them, in both the Scripture and the Eucharist, this is why they are filled with such joy. I truly have never been surrounded by those who long for their encounter with the Eucharistic Lord.
We conducted a Communion Service tonight and read the readings from this Sunday's Mass(anticipated). These men always respond generously to the readings and the homily. Communion, as is always the case, is a great study in reverance and awe. As mentioned before, their is a sincere longing to receive the Lord.
After our service I spent about a half hour reviewing the upcoming changes in the liturgy so, as a community, we can prepare to celebrate our Masses and Communion Services, in unity.
Again, I thank God for this ministry, it's awesome power to lift me no matter what type of week I am experiencing. And thank God that these men, despite incarceration, are living lives for the Lord and His Holy Catholic Church!
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