Adoration

“A ‘time-out’ with the Lord”

What is Adoration?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that, “Adoration is the first attitude of man acknowledging that he is a creature before his Creator. It exalts the greatness of the Lord who made us and the almighty power of the Savior who sets us free from evil….” (CCC 2628) In other words, adoration is how we are before God in all we do.

We can show our adoration to God in many ways, but when Catholics say they are “going to Adoration,” they are typically referring to Eucharistic Adoration, which, in the most basic terms, is the worship of the Eucharist outside of the Mass. The Eucharistic Host is displayed in a monstrance on the altar so that we can see, be and pray in the true presence of Christ.

When is Adoration at St. Rose?

We have Eucharistic Adoration Thursdays in the chapel from after 8:15am Mass until 7pm. There is information in the bulletin or you may contact Chrissy Figueroa Witney at 832.459.1424 (call/text) or figgysmalls@gmail.com if you would like to be part of the group that ensures that Jesus will never be left alone. However, there is no requirement to sign-up; you can just show up, even for a few minutes, and be with Lord.

What to do during Eucharistic Adoration?

If you have never been to Adoration, you may have some questions. As a form of respect, you should always genuflect when you see the Lord in the Host. Maintain an attitude of respect, and if others are present, silence. Always keep in mind that you are in the presence of God!

Kneeling, sitting, standing, and even laying on the floor before the Blessed Sacrament are all appropriate forms of prayer. Let your posture reflect your worship of the King and do what is comfortable for you.

You really don’t have to “do” anything during Adoration. You can just sit there and look at Jesus. Take time to be with Him. If you are the only person in the chapel, don’t be afraid to pray or sing to the Lord. This is your personal time with Christ.

During Adoration, we recognize the presence of God and place ourselves in the presence of Christ. We can give thanks for all the blessings God has given us. We may ask for conversion of hearts, for the world, the people around us and, yes, even our own heart. We can express sorrow for the world’s sins and our own sins, and ask for forgiveness.

There are many ways that we can pray during Adoration:

1. Meditate

2. Read spiritual books

3. Ask for intercession

4. Offer a Holy Hour

5. Write in a prayer journal

6. Pray spontaneously

7. Ask the Saints for help

8. Read the Scriptures

In a way, we can think of Adoration as a grown up ‘time-out.’ It is a ‘time-out’ of our daily routine, out of the busyness, the noise, the distractions of everything around us. It is a ‘time-out’ to encounter God and come to know who God desires us to be. Eucharistic Adoration enables us to express who we are as the Body of Christ, his risen presence in the world today. During adoration we offer praise and thanksgiving for all God has given us and petition God for our needs and the needs of others. Adoration challenges us to reflect on whether our everyday living reflects our unity with Christ and his Gospel values.

Come on Thursday to Adoration … a ‘time-out’ with Jesus may be just what is missing from your busy week!

- Deacon Ed