THE CENACLE IS A PLACE WHERE HEARTS ARE PREPARED

PERSONAL NOTES taken of Homily @ MASS 

CELEBRATING THE FEAST DAY OF OUR LADY OF THE CENACLE

These are quick notes taken (not verbatim). Any errors or omissions are mine alone. For private sharing only, please do not post on social media apps

(1) 

God always makes the first move.  

Every good we do come from the one source:

• The One who calls
• The One who equips
• The One who sends

(2)

It is not only about doing, 

but about remaining in the Lord. 

It is about being.

(3)

Our first call is to be in the presence of God so as to live out the being:

• of being the beloved
• of being the child of God

(4)

It is about being connected before stepping out.  It is about

• prayer before mission
• listening before speaking
• communion before action

(5)

Mission without prayer is empty action.  

Service without prayer life is a drain.  

But prayer is not an escape from mission.

(6)

Renewal - Ez 36:23-28

• A new heart and a new spirit
• Renewal changes the way we relate
• Allow the Holy Spirit to renew us
• To love again, to forgive again

(7)

The Cenacle is not a destination.  

The Upper Room must continue on to mission.  

It is not about being comfortable.

(8)

The Cenacle is a place where hearts are prepared, hearts that have gathered with our Mother, ready for mission - prayer, communion and apostolic service.

- End of Homily -

———————-

Prayer based on the Solemn Blessing at mass

May God give us the grace to be like Mary, ever attentive to receive the Word.

May the fire of the Holy Spirit transform us to be messengers of God’s Word.

May God keep us always united in prayer to call the Holy Spirit on the world.

Fr Esmond Chua, OFM
SMOTA

Chapel of St Damiano, Franciscan Retreat Centre