THIRTEENTH STATION OF VIA LUCIS: Mary and the Disciples Keep Vigil in the Upper Room for the Spirit's Advent

We adore You, O Christ

and we praise You!

Because by the Wood of the Cross and

the Light of the Resurrection, 

You have redeemed the world!

Reading:  "When they entered the city, they went to the upper room where they were staying.... All [the apostles] devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together with some women, and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and His brothers" (Acts 1: 13a, 14).

Reflection:  Throughout the history of the Church, there have been apostolic movements dedicated to prayerful contemplation, and others resulting in transforming action.  As we have crossed the threshold into a new millennium, we look to the "Upper Room" as a symbolic place where we return over and over again, so that we can become "contemplatives in action." As persons who are both prayerful and energetic in service to the Gospel, we must always keep vigil for the advent of the Risen Lord, with the flame of faith alive in our hearts.  Only the Lord can refresh our spirits and renew us in the ministries that flow from our Baptism and Confirmation.

Silence

Prayer:  Father most holy, see Your Church gathered here in prayerful worship like the first disciples and Mary in the Upper Room.  Grant that we may accomplish, in the joy of the Holy Spirit, all that You give us to do in the world. May we gladly share in Christ's sufferings so as to rejoice when His glory is revealed.  We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

All:  Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
On this most holy day of days,
To God your hearts and voices raise,
In laud and jubilee and praise. Alleluia!

NEXT:   FOURTEENTH STATION OF VIA LUCIS: The Risen Lord Sends the Holy Spirit