Some moments will remain in our memories forever. Last night is certain to be one such moment for me.

I had the opportunity to witness my friend profess his Final Vows as a Jesuit priest. This joyful milestone in his spiritual journey was observed through an ordinary, daily Mass celebrated within a campus chapel.

The chapel was filled with hundreds of faithful friends and family members. Seated in the pew before us was an old man, praying the rosary. He was there for daily Mass. I heard him lean over to a nun seated next to him and ask, “What is the occasion this evening?” His eyes widened at the news of what was in store.

The officiating priest and Jesuit Rector welcomed us warmly and noted the diversity of people gathered. His voice softened as he encouraged us to look around at one another and said –

“This is a glimpse of what heaven will look like.”

There were people of all ages and ethnicities and walks of life present – all of us touched, somehow, by the life and faithful witness of my friend. The talented musicians were led by a young Jesuit priest. Overall, I counted nearly 30 Jesuit priests in the chapel, as well as nuns of different orders – some wearing street clothes, and others wearing long habits and flowing robes.

The Mass was moving. Our voices echoed off the walls and ceiling, growing louder and louder as we prayed and sang from our hearts. All of the Jesuit priests participated in the Act of Consecration during the Eucharist, invoking the grace of the Holy Spirit to change the substance of the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

As my friend prepared to receive Holy Communion, he knelt humbly before his Jesuit Superior and recited his Final Vows. He paused in the midst of his Vows, visibly overcome with the Spirit and emotion of the moment. I can still see him standing on the altar, after his Vows, his eyes fixed on the precious gift of the Blessed Host he was holding in his hands.

Before Mass ended, my friend spoke a bit of his journey. His words remain on my heart this morning:

“It is at the edge of our capacities that we encounter Christ.”

A stunning observation made by a remarkable soul.

Come Holy Spirit; fill us with Faith to believe wholly in God’s Promise. Fill us with Hope as we meet the trials of life with steady purpose and courage and joy. Dearest Jesus, shower us with the Love we long for, as we discover You, standing in all Your Glory and Mercy, at the edge of what we deem possible.  

And Loving Jesus, please continue to deeply bless and guide all faithful priests and servants, here on earth:

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be … And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” 1 Peter 5: 2, 4