Visiting each other!
I often smile to myself because it’s not really a phrase we
use here in Ireland. Yet it never ceases to make me reflect. Every interaction,
each phone call, WhatsApp, each text, each emoji, each video-call, is actually
a visit with someone. We allow them in our lives and we are invited into
theirs- we walk on the holy ground of each other's lives, let us tread gently!
This evening at the conclusion of the Marian Rosary Marathon to end the pandemic, Pope Francis asked our Lady, Un-doer of Knots to untie 5 knots; significantly the 1st knot being that of loneliness and indifference. Whilst technology became a stronger lifeline for many during these past 18 months, we
constantly are reminded that it can’t replace being actually present in person-
this applies for our public worship, for our celebrating the joys and sorrows of
life, for marking milestones etc. During
the pandemic one of the things we missed the most was not being able to be physically
present with people. We heard stories which broke our hearts. We saw reunions
which brought tears to our eyes. Older people in particular desired to socially
interact in person.
As here in Ireland we begin to relax the restrictions which now permit us to ‘visit’ each other, I am grateful for those with whom I have been able to visit with so far and I look forward to meeting up with others. As I make my Night Prayer on this beautiful feastday of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to her cousin Elizabeth, my prayer for each of us is that the joy will be like that of Mary and Elizabeth when they met, as we recognise Christ in each other. May we reach out to those who suffer loneliness, especially hidden loneliness and may we never be indifferent to the suffering of others who feel alone or isolated. So whether it’s ‘ a cuppa and a catch-up’ or a ‘visit’ to someone, digitally or in person, let us try and be truly present to those we visit and allow ourselves be blessed by others who come to visit us!
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