Saturday, September 1, 2007

Hands to Work; Hearts to God!

Welcome fellow sacristans!

Late last year, my Director of Music Ministries asked me to organize an Altar Guild for our congregation. I had no clue where to begin, but have been guided by wise friends, lay and clergy, the Lord has sent my way. I've come to know a lovely group of sisters in Christ (brothers would be welcome, too!) who are blessed with the opportunity to offer seemingly mundane gifts to the Lord. I'll never forget a conversation with one of the sisters, while filling Communion cups, about how she enjoyed ironing. That day, she joyfully took home the veils and palls and, when they returned to the sacristy, they were snowy and crisply smooth. What a blessing it is to be able to take something you enjoy, even something simple, and offer it as a gift of love to our Lord!

As for me, my gift is polishing brass. Somehow, as I wipe away the dirt and the oils and the stains that mar the finish, my mind focuses on the Lord and the work He is doing in my life to wash away the dirt and stains. It is an oasis of calm for me in a hectic world.

The Sacristy is a place for sharing information, knowledge, and blessings. The direction we take is up to you. I'll start the discussion:

How has serving in the sacristy blessed you?

Peace,

Nancy