“All who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ, for he himself will say: I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” These familiar words from the Rule of St Benedict remind us that the Christian community is called to be welcoming and hospitable.
This Advent our #Posada figures will find that hospitality and welcome in so many different places.
Posada has a lovely tradition of attending Mass at St Joseph’s Care home on the first Monday of Advent. From the moment we walked in this morning, to the moment we left, we found welcome, love and peace. First of all we attended the daily Mass in the beautiful chapel. This is the focus for peace, warmth and stillness in the whole community. Our Posada figures were warmly welcomed and given a place of honour in front of the altar, and personally welcomed by the celebrant of the Mass.
Mass was a time of gentle peaceful spirituality for us all – visitors, residents and the sisters. We were moved by the sense of prayerful devotion and also by the sensitivity with which each person present was cared for. The Mass united us and connected us as Christians together. Our Posada figures too brought connection among us – our Posada journey and stories were remembered from previous years and we were assured of prayer.
After Mass we stayed on for coffee and had a lovely conversation with Fr Gallagher, one of the priests who lives at the home. He told us about his community, the Norbertines, and also brightened the morning with his jokes. In the background students from RNCM entertained residents and staff to Christmas songs and music.
What an encouraging early visit for Posada and what a splendid and inspiring example granted to us of Christian welcome and hospitality.
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