By Richard Meek
The Catholic Commentator
State lawmakers should always acknowledge the Lord’s presence, Bishop Glen John Provost of Lake Charles said during the homily of a special legislators Mass on May 22 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Baton Rouge.
Bishop Provost (seen in photo at left, being assisted during the celebration of the Mass by Lake Charles seminarian Addison Pitre) said the Eucharist is “very special for all of us,” and Catholics should always be aware of “his presence.”
“This is especially important for (legislators),” he added. “It’s important to remember the Lord is with us. We must be keenly aware of how he works in our lives.”
Bishop Provost said attending Eucharistic Adoration is an effective way to maintain that reminder. He recalled how a group of young students related to him adoration was the “high point” of their confirmation retreat.
“The young people connect with our Lord’s presence in the Blessed Sacrament,” Bishop Provost said, adding that as we grow older some Catholics take for granted the Eucharist. “It is at that point (young people) connect (with the Lord) in their lives.
A Mass is celebrated once a month for legislators while the legislature is in session. Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops associate director Robert Tasman said three years ago a legislator inquired about the possibility of celebrating a Mass for Catholic lawmakers while in session. Tasman said there are ecumenical and other religious services but at that time there was nothing specific for Catholics.
“We responded,” he said “It’s an opportunity (for lawmakers) to take time out of their busy schedules during the legislature and pray and reflect on their faith in an environment that is non-threatening and nothing is being asked of them.”
The state’s bishops celebrate the Mass on a rotating schedule.
The current session adjourns no later than 6 p.m. June 2.
(Richard Meek is the editor and general manager of The Catholic Commentator, the diocesan newspaper of the Diocese of Baton Rouge).
