As Catholics we have many beliefs we hold in common with other Christians, but there are some that are especially Catholic. For example, we treasure a deep conviction about Jesus Christ's real presence in the consecrated bread and wine.  Another in our treasury concerns Mary, the mother of Jesus and our mother.  She holds a special place in our faith journey which is expressed in Marian devotions and feasts.  Still another characteristic that is especially Catholic is our imagination.

We, Catholics, have what has been called--a sacramental imagination. The word "imagination" might be misleading if we limit its meaning to fantasy.  Imagination is a special gift which enables us to touch into a reality that is not immediately present to the senses.  Not only do we celebrate the seven sacraments, but we also believe that all of reality is shot through with the presence of the Divine.  A task, in our daily living, is to develop the ability to find God’s presence and activity in life.  We do this in order to thank Him and also listen to where He is calling us to become more like Him in being a disciple of Jesus Christ.  Still another way of understanding the sacramental imagination is that we see life as both/and, and not just either/or.  Some examples might help: Jesus Christ is both human and divine; we are both loved and sinners: loved sinners; self-love involves both self-fulfillment and self-denial.

For the next few months, the insert will explore our Eucharistic Liturgy (Mass) so as to help us enter more fully and consciously into this mystery.  Our Catholic imagination will be of great assistance here.  Also, from time to time, links will be provided for YouTube music videos.
Music is essential to every celebration!  Can you imagine a birthday party without our singing, “Happy Birthday?”   Because of COVID we have been deprived of music at our liturgies.  Maybe it’s time to hear some music!  The hymns in these videos, though ones we do not usually sing, can be a way to deepen our participation.

Next week we will look at The Paschal Mystery.