while I am going to solve the dilemma by going to St. Joseph for noon Mass, just stopping for a quick bite. did not make to to Alamo yesterday because of even in my own parish, but this morning was grand. Fr. Benedict says it was his first mariachi Mass, and he loved it, and promised to get EWTN to come down here and film something at the Basilica. He was also impressed by the fact that people were mostly quiet before and after Mass (which must have been the Holy Spirit because at times this place is like a zoo, esp. on Sunday and holidays with more pilgrims.).
His preaching on the Real Presence, and catechetical session on the history of devotion to the Eucharist and origin of the feast were of course terrific. He is as always, clear, to the point, and using simple words to convey profound realities, the very exemplar of a catechist. glad to see many of the DREs and catechists there, including at least a couple of dozen sisters.
Eucharistic vigil last night, back to San Juan this afternoon for Corpus Christi procession, marching with the CUF group. this is getting to be more like what I remember about Corpus Christi devotion as a child. Now if they bring back 40 hours it will really rock.
by the way, the custom now at the Basilica is to pray Salva Regina facing the image of Our Lady of San Juan after Mass, and I think that blew the friars away. Head of the order was there, as were several other friars including the two newly ordained priests, one our own Fr. Gus. yes I did get teary eyed when the young friar who assists Fr. Groeschel and Fr. Ortega, rector of the Basilica, helped him to his feet. He appears more frail in person than he does on TV, and sat for his teaching (but stood for the homily and the consecration, in which he and the other friars concelebrated). walks haltingly with a cane and always has someone next to him for assistance. he spoke especially to us abuelos and abuelitas who like him are approaching that certain age. dear, dear man. and YES he spoke specifically about returning to reception of communion on the tongue, loud applause (yeah, I know we don’t like applause in church, but this merited it).
