Constrained by the Holy Spirit
Abba Agapios lingered in church after the Holy Oblation whilst his disciple Theophilos waited for him to begin the meal. When, after some time, the venerable elder arrived, the disciple made a profound reverence and said, "Forgive me, Reverend Father, but what detaineth thee so after the Holy Mysteries? Why dost thou not return straightaway that together we might break bread after the fast?" Abba Agapios crossed his hands over his breast and, with downcast eyes, replied, "No sooner do I partake of the Body and Blood of Christ than the Spirit of God fills my heart, constraining me to say again and gain, 'O Jesus, live Thou in me that I may live in Thee.' And so do I pray until He Whom I have received biddeth me depart in peace."
His Excellency, Bishop Edward J. Slattery of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tulsa, Oklahoma has given
Father Mark a special mandate to live under the Rule of Saint Benedict in adoration before the Eucharistic Face of Jesus, offering thanksgiving, intercession, and reparation for all his
brothers in Holy Orders. In this way, Father is preparing the foundation of the new Diocesan Benedictine Monastery of Our Lady of the Cenacle. Father Mark is available to the
priests and deacons of the Diocese for spiritual and sacramental support in their pursuit of holiness. He is also charged with the spiritual formation of women who desire to dedicate themselves to spiritual motherhood in favour of priests.
Oh this is beyond beautiful! In a day when we're lucky if half the church hasn't cleared out before the conclusion of the closing hymn! Oh yes Father -- keep these gems coming!
This is beautiful. Thank you, Father. My favorite form of act of spiritual communion is a variation of this.
"O Jesus, living in Mary, come and live in my heart. I in Thee, and Thou in me, in time and in eternity, in Mary.
What wonderful words! I often pray that when I receive Him I might understand clearly in my heart what I know in my mind.