The Mass is our central act of worship. In the tradition of the Church we are encouraged to adore the Blessed Sacrament. Such devotion derives from the sacrifice of the Mass and serves to move us to both sacramental and spiritual communion with Our Lord. Pope Frances repeatedly encourages us to pray before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

Why do we use a period of 40 semi-continuous hours? The number 40 has historically signified a “sacred” period of time. The rain during the time of Moses lasted 40 days and nights; the Jews wandered in the desert for 40 years and Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days before beginning his public ministry; we observe Lent for 40 days and that “40 hour period” from our Lord’s burial until his resurrection.

Let us all grow as a parish in our love of the Eucharist Lord in these sacred days.