A New Season of Worship Outdoors

This past Sunday was a first for us, our very first outdoor Sunday Mass. With the Basilica beginning a two-month beautification process, this will be our new normal for a little while. At first, it felt a little different, but overall, I really enjoyed it. After all, we live in paradise, so why not embrace the gift of worshiping in God’s creation?

Of course, this time of year brings its challenges. The Florida heat can be intense, and rain showers seem to appear without warning. I’m sure at some point over the next two months we’ll have to dodge a storm or two. But even with the unpredictability of weather, there is something beautiful about being outside together as a faith community. It reminds me that the Church is not just a building, it’s the people gathered in Christ’s name.

I’m also excited about what’s happening with the Basilica. Father Marino has such a wonderful vision for our church, and I can’t wait to see how the beautification will honor God and inspire our worship for years to come. Just like we are being renewed outdoors during this season, the physical church is being renewed as well. Before and after renderings at the top of this post.

And while our setting may be different, what has not changed and never will is the importance of the Mass and the Eucharist. For me, receiving the Body of Christ is the heart of my faith. The Eucharist is not a symbol or just a ritual; it is Christ Himself. His true Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. Every time I receive Communion, I am reminded that Jesus gave everything for me, and He continues to give Himself completely in this sacrament. It is nourishment for the soul, a foretaste of heaven, and the deepest expression of His love.

Whether we receive the Eucharist inside a beautiful Basilica or under the shade of palm trees, its meaning does not change. Christ comes to us, uniting heaven and earth in that moment. That truth gives me strength and peace no matter where I am.

So, if you are walking through a season of change in your own life, whether it feels like being “pushed outside” into something unfamiliar, or waiting for something to be restored…remember that Jesus meets you there. He is faithful, and He gives Himself to you completely.

A Prayer for This Season

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your presence in the Eucharist. Help me never to take this gift for granted, but to approach You with love, reverence, and gratitude. In seasons of change, remind me that You are my constant, my nourishment, and my source of joy. Renew my heart just as You renew Your Church, and help me always to see the beauty of Your love wherever I am. Amen.

Scripture to Reflect On

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.” – John 6:51