Communication for the World

Dear Friend, 

“The task of the church is to keep open communication between human beings and God”. These simple words, attributed to an 18th century philosopher, chime well with my experience of the Chrism Mass on Monday at the Cathedral in Los Angeles. With very touching references to his friend, the late Bishop David, Archbishop Gomez spoke in his homily of the priestly task of the entire church - lay and ordained alike.  

“Keeping open communication,” as described above, is the first step of priesthood. It’s the heart of our Sunday liturgy. Our shared priesthood is especially highlighted in our Universal Prayer after the Creed, when we present the needs of the world to the Lord, and we do that together as an exercise in sacred communication: Lord, hear our prayer! The priesthood conferred at baptism comes to life.

 On the night of Holy Thursday, of course, our liturgy focuses on Christ at the last supper. I think of another quote, this one from the 20th century Canadian philosopher, Marshall McLuhan, who said, “The medium is the message.” He was referring to the ways that our communication tools shape our reception of messages - from written word, to radio, to television and video. As many scholars have pointed out, however, as a Catholic, McLuhan had been raised on the communication of Christ in the liturgy.  

Christ’s communication - his “priestly” communication - was nothing less than his whole self. His very life - body and blood - becomes “the medium” and “the message.” The fruit of our Holy Week liturgies and the celebration of the Lord’s resurrection is that spirit of “open communication” on behalf of the human family, advancing, as we pray, the peace and salvation of all the world. This Easter may the Word of our lives be transformed, communication for the world!

Gratefully,

Fr. Dan ofm