Last Sunday, I attended Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, then processed with the Blessed Sacrament to St. Peter’s Church in Wall Street, and ultimately to the Brooklyn Bridge. The whole experience left me feeling proud to be Catholic and to make the physical witness, with 1000 other Catholics, that Jesus is our Lord. I was also able to observe and internalize the beauty of those two churches.

Sitting in St. Patrick’s with the massive arches pointing to heaven, dozens of statues and stained-glass windows, and the breathtaking golden baldachin suspended over the altar, I felt God’s presence in the beauty and extravagance of that famous building. Then again at St. Peter’s, I was awed by its marble, paintings, and tabernacle. I was reminded of a reflection from 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory where the author said, “Travel anywhere in the world and ask to be taken to the most beautiful building in the area. Most often you will be taken to a Catholic Church. Why have Catholics built so many beautiful churches in every century and across the globe? I can tell you this: it’s not about the art or the architecture. It’s not about legacy or personal pride. It’s because we believe that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist.”

That explains it, doesn’t it: the difference between Catholic church buildings and most Protestant ones? Most Protestant churches are built for the worshipers; Catholic Churches are built for Jesus. The altar and the tabernacle are the focal point reminding us of Jesus’ presence. The windows, statues, candlestands, overall architecture are designed by artists to make his home deservedly magnificent. They are houses literally built for a King because Jesus in the Eucharist lives in every one of them in their tabernacles. It is an important reminder to all of us: when we enter a Catholic Church, we are entering Jesus’ home, not ours, and He is present. Let us show the utmost respect by genuflecting to Jesus in the tabernacle when we enter and leave our seats, bowing to the altar when we cross in front of it, and avoiding lengthy conversations in the pews. Our churches are more than beautiful buildings, they are Jesus’ Holy Homes.

Scripture: Read John 12:3-8. What stands out?

Call to Action:  St. Lawrence O’Toole is arguably the most beautiful building in Brewster. Join us for a tour:

English – Thursday, June 6, 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM

Spanish – Sunday, July 14, 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM