Fr. McBrien’s criticism hurt

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I read Father Richard McBrien’s article on eucharistic adoration and I must say it hurt!

It hurt deeply! It truly blows my mind how a priest cannot have the same feelings as those who love to come visit Jesus in a church or chapel. It is the same Jesus that he celebrates every day at Mass! It doesn’t “take away” anything from the holy sacrifice of the Mass. Most people who I see at adoration attend Mass daily.

When I am before the Blessed Sacrament during adoration, I feel like I’m talking to Jesus in person, and I am. I’m surprised that a priest cannot see the graces that Jesus gives to those who pay little visits to him.

It would appear that Fr. McBrien has not attended an adoration hour for quite some time. Oh, the graces he might be cheating himself of!

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Father wrote, “Now that most Catholics are literate and even well-educated … there is little or no need for extraneous eucharistic devotions.” If he truly believes this, I am grateful for my meager education. Surely the dear Lord is never offended when he sees us coming to pay homage and pour our hearts out to him. We hear Mass attendance is down, good morals are at a low, many do not believe in the Real Presence. It is no wonder more and more are promoting adoration in their parishes.

I know firsthand the graces that are awaiting us there! Never could I have given up three sons in such a short period of time if I didn’t feel the closeness of my dearest Jesus! And I can’t help but feel many of those graces came from my holy hours and pouring my heart out to him.

Anna Marie Oliger

Davenport


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