The Beatles song “Come together” is thought to describe each member of the band. Each a unique individual, but united as one for a purpose. So it is with us who call ourselves Christian: we are unique individuals, but united as one for a purpose: the building of the kingdom of God here on earth. Important and necessary in yhis work is our coming together as one, most especially at the celebration of Mass.
“We should not stay away from our assembly, as is the custom of some, but encourage one another…”(Heb 10:25) The first reading reminds us that participating in the mass is not the means of supporting the Church, but the necessary action of those seeking salvation. We are baptized into a family of faith. This family is how we remain connected to God, how we learn more about Him, are nourished and challenged. All of this is necessary if we hope to grow closer to Him.
The mass not only is a means of support and encouragement, it is where we meet the Lord in word and Sacrament, where we are drawn into the Paschal Mystery in such a way that we are able to persevere in faith, hope and love in the struggles and trials we encounter in daily life.
I Do Believe Lord 