A Love For Jesus!

As a permanent deacon for our diocese, the bishop assigned me to assist the chaplain at one of our senior living centers. This particular center boasts a very large campus and serves a spectrum of needs. From stand alone private homes to apartments, assisted nursing to a dedicated Alzheimer’s unit.

One evening, my rounds took me to the Alzheimer’s unit to pray and visit with those in need.

Upon entering this part of the campus, I was met by Joan (not her actual name), a white haired woman in her early eighties. She was beaming with joy. Knowing she was Catholic I asked her if she would like Holy Communion. Her reply was a reverent, “Yes!”

As I we prayed the Communion Rite she responded properly, never missing a beat. I gave her Holy Communion, paused for a moment of prayer, thanksgiving and recollection, and then gave her a blessing.

While Joan and I were praying, the rest of the Alzheimer residents made their way to the dining room. We followed shortly after.

As a side note, clergy and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion must provide the utmost care for Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament. In this case, those residents in the Alzheimer’s unit who were now seated in the dining room were silently waiting in a beautiful and peaceful setting. While not in the chapel or in their rooms, the dining area provided a clean and reverent setting. Food wasn’t coming for another half hour.

I was sitting at a table with six others who all happened to be Catholic.

In the stillness of the waiting, I asked them if they would like to receive Holy Communion.

They were overcome with a childlike joy paired with a quiet reverence. Although the disease has taken many of their memories, their souls just knew that the God of the universe was in their midst. Some looked as if they were going to cry, one started to humm, the others were quiet and ready to respond with fervor.

I wish I could explain the flood of grace that God showered upon me and these beautiful children of God. There are no words that can come close to describing the consolations received as we came together to pray and receive Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

After the last person received Holy Communion, a loud voice came from the back of the table. It was Joan.

Overcome with grace and getting caught up in the beautiful expressions of the others desiring to receive Jesus; she said,

“I want Jesus too!”

I said, “I just gave you Jesus 5 minutes ago!”

All the ladies at the table laughed and said, “That’s why you belong here.” Joan said, “Oh darn”, and shrugged it off.

Her beautiful and innocent desire was so childlike, as if a toddler sitting on the lap of mom or dad; a place of refuge, peace and contentment. I want Jesus too!

What are your desires? Do you have the heart of a child? Are you searching for Christ?

Now, think how much more Jesus wants you!

You are always in our prayers,

Deacon Jerry Peterson

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