A Pilgrim's Journey: Jerusalem

Monday, March 31, 2025

Jerusalem

The first word we heard on the Fourth Sunday in Lent was “lætare” - “rejoice.” “Rejoice ye with Jerusalem; and be ye glad for her, all ye that delight in her,” the introit said. And the theme is repeated at the next day’s Mass in a reading from the prophet Isaiah, “I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.”

Jerusalem. The remembrance of that holy city mid-Lent is a reminder of all that God has done there. He has made holy this city with His presence from days of old. It was in Jerusalem that the Temple was constructed; it was in Jerusalem that Christ opened the treasures of the Kingdom of God. It was in Jerusalem that our Lord made His triumphal entry, but was then condemned and killed, and it was in Jerusalem that death was conquered for us all when Jesus Christ walked triumphantly from the tomb.

Jerusalem. It is the symbol also of our eternal destination, that "heavenly Jerusalem" where God is enthroned, surrounded by the angels and saints, and where a place has been prepared for each one of us, if we will but claim it.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. It is an earthly city torn apart by sinful man, but it is a heavenly destination, sanctified by the Perfect God.

Meeting Pope St. John Paul II

In 1983 I was a newly-ordained priest. In November of that year, it was my privilege to be in Rome to take part in developing The Book of Divine Worship. During that time an invitation was extended to celebrate Mass with His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, in his private chapel. After we had said Mass, and in those few moments I had with the Holy Father, he told me that he remembered considering the request for my ordination, and he described how he came to an affirmative decision. For me, our brief conversation was an experience which will be treasured forever. At the conclusion of our time together, I asked him if I could take his blessing back to the people of my parish. His very simple words remain precious to me: "With all my heart, I bless you and your people." He then embraced me, and I knew that I was forever "home in my Father's house."