For the young ones

I don't always remember that the young people in our congregations watch those of us up front, sometimes with intense seriousness. One petite acolyte has kept her eye on me lately, asking many questions. Yesterday, her mom told me that this dear young person, in charge of their table prayers, has decided that she wants to be like me. So, for their mealtime prayers, she extends her arms out and begins to chant the Sursum Corda. The mom told me this with tears in her eyes.

I don't always remember that I serve as a role model. In this case, girls see a priest who happens to be a woman, and they know that they can dream about being behind the altar, too. Not only that, but this young girl was at the organ bench after the service, playing much more than random notes. I've had her on my heart and mind all day. For her, and for all the young ones, I thank God.