This evening was my first time in two years to serve as an acolyte
I was the Lay Eucharist Minister at the Low Mass
I was greeted by old friends when I walked into the sacristy
Holy Week is definitely a good time to reunite
I was a bit worried about how much I had forgotten
Our priest assured me that he would guide me every step of the way
A few things have changed in my two-year absence
We have new candlesticks that are so tall they are a little hard for me to light
We have several beautiful new pieces on the altar
We also have a much better sound system and everything is live-streamed
The Internet, for all its downsides, offers a real upside to people who can’t attend church
True to his word, our priest reminded me quietly if I forgot something
“We’re going to wash the dishes now,” he whispered when I gave him a quizzical look
“Of course,” I muttered, and reached for the cruet of water
No major missteps
I felt a quiet calmness
Tomorrow is Maundy Thursday
I will serve as the Sub Deacon
Luckily, we will practice beforehand
I look forward to sharing Holy Week with my fellow acolytes
I am grateful for that gift