3 minute read
The Men’s Holy Hour: United with the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament
As Catholics, we are immersed in a culture of busyness, always being told to work harder, be more productive, and keep doing more. We are bombarded with news, social media, and music. Even our leisure activities and hobbies tend to focus on doing rather than being. Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI aptly said, “In the world there is so much noise, so much bewilderment. There is a need for silent adoration of Jesus concealed in the Host… It is a source of comfort and light.”
At Holy Family Cathedral, men are given an opportunity to respond to Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew as he pleads, “Could you not watch one hour with me?”
Advertisement
On the second Tuesday of the month, men from the parish of all stages of life are invited to join in prayer and community. This Men’s Holy Hour is a time to slow down and pray.
“It is an opportunity to unite themselves with the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament,” says Deacon Thomas. “It is a way to step outside of the hustle and bustle of their lives.”
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is from 7:30-8:30 p.m. followed by fellowship with snacks and drinks in the parish hall. Confession is available during adoration, as well.
“This began about a year and a half ago as an opportunity to build community among the men of the parish,” Deacon Thomas says. “We are bringing new parishioners and new men into the fold, drawing them in and strengthening them in their prayer life. As they say, ‘Iron sharpens iron.’”
We are all encouraged to make a Holy Hour every day. This most commonly takes place within our own homes. Being able to make this Holy Hour in front of the Blessed Sacrament is a way of saying “yes” to the call during Mass, “Behold the Lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world.” By being physically present in adoration, we are able to gaze upon the Lord and truly “behold” Him.
“After the Mass, the devotion to our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament is the best means in which we can grow in holiness and strengthen our families,” Deacon Thomas says. “It all flows from the Mass. Adoration is a tried and true way to remain rightly ordered in the spiritual life.”
Men are called to be the spiritual leaders of their families and communities. This monthly event is a great way to deepen their relationship with God and grow in community with other men.
“We want every man in the parish to know that they are welcome any time they are able to come,” Deacon Thomas says. “By strengthening yourself in grace in confession and prayer, as the spiritual leaders, the graces that flow from that will greatly benefit our families and our communities.”
