So Close
On a recent pilgrimage our group stopped at St.
Anthony’s church in Sokółka, Poland. On October
12, 2008 at Mass a consecrated host was accidently dropped during communion. The host was placed in water to dissolve and
be disposed of properly. About one week
later, the sacristan checked on the host and found that the host only partially
dissolved, and it had a red, blood-like stain.
The substance was sent to two independent specialists for
scientific analysis. Both of them
concluded:
- · The stained part of the host was made of
human cardiac muscle tissue, similar to that found in a person nearing death.
- · The muscle fibers were found to be
inseparably interconnected with the host fragments in a way that experts said
was impossible to create by human hands.
- · Tests also noted the tissue showed signs
of distress and did not self-destruct, which should have happened.
Based on the scientific analysis and local witness statements,
the Vatican approved of displaying the host for public veneration.
When we arrived at the church, I really wanted to go
directly to the Eucharistic Miracle, but the pastor and sacristan were ready
for us, so we immediately began to prepare for Mass. Veneration of the Eucharistic Miracle would
have to wait until Mass was finished. As
a deacon, I had the advantage of being able to look out into the church and it
was easy to see where the host was displayed in a side chapel. We were so close.
When it was time for holy communion the local priest
motioned me to follow him. We proceeded
to the metal gate at the side chapel where the Eucharistic Miracle was
kept. He opened the gate, pushed it open
and motioned for me to enter. The
Eucharistic Miracle was displayed in a monstrance that was placed on top of the
tabernacle. The priest handed me the tabernacle
key. As I approached the tabernacle and
unlocked it I was only a foot away from the Miracle. I wanted so much to reach up and touch it, but I felt
the priest watching me closely. I was so
close.
But then moments later we all received the Blessed
Sacrament. Even though Jesus was not as
visible as He is in that Miracle host, I was consoled knowing that He was truly
present in the consecrated host that each of us received. "Take and eat. This is My Body, given up for you." We are all so close!
His Peace <><
Deacon Dan
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