Our cruise in the Mediterranean is coming to an end as I write this bulletin article. Visiting seven countries (Spain, France, Italy, Vatican City, Malta, Tunisia, and Greece) in a short span of time was quite the challenging task. However, our floating hotel, the Holland America Oosterdam proved a worthy means of accomplishing our journey. As stated last week, I travel with a brother priest, Fr. Larry Polansky.
We are currently anchored off the shore of Greece. To reach the little port town (Gythion) we need to take a tender (small transport boat). I would rather just walk off the ship, but small ports often necessitate the tender process when it comes to cruise ships.
While waiting for the transport to shore to begin, I glanced at this Sunday's Gospel passage and readings. Jesus relates a parable regarding storing up treasure in heaven. Hhmm . . . I have just seen a multitude of beautiful countries, cities, and towns. Spending much time in various cathedrals and churches, I continue to be in awe of the works of art contained in each, in addition to their ornate, massive structures. I walked through the immense Vatican museum, gazed at the ceiling and walls of the Sistine chapel, and marveled at the beauty of Michelangelo's Pieta. Concentrating especially on works of art primarily intended to glorify Almighty God, I pondered how they will all pass away some day. No matter how beautiful, they are only temporary and intended for this world.
What really matters in the grand schema of things? . . . The spiritual, the eternal, those treasures in heaven. The Catholic churches all had a Blessed Sacrament chapel or chapels. It soon became obvious to me how many people are truly unaware of the Real Presence of Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament. Tourists walk by the Tabernacle often without any acknowledgement or realization that Jesus is there. Yes, the buildings and works of art are beautiful and should be photographed or captured on video. Yet, Jesus is there, right in front of us all. He is God. He will reign for all eternity.
For a brief moment during each hectic day, I would often stop to pray where I could find some private space. The hurried movement, the noise, the pushing and shoving, and all of the other elements and traits of travel and tourism can get to a person. To find that quiet space, whether it ideally be in a church before the Blessed Sacrament, or a corner of the ship away from the massive crowds, a person needs to realize what is truly important in life, its treasures. The intimate relationship with Almighty God in prayer is more valuable than all of the sightseeing adventures and works of art. The opportunity to offer Mass for the group of fellow travelers was another blessing given us on the journey. To meet and get to know some fellow passengers – like a Catholic deacon and his wife and a Jewish doctor and his wife – and many others, added to the blessings of the journey, its treasures. And to travel with a brother priest who had never been to Europe or on a cruise . . . Blessing? Curse? Both? The jury is still out. (Only kidding, Fr. Larry.)
As you read this, I should be back in the parish offering the Sunday Mass (barring any unforeseen circumstance). Once again I get to experience another spiritual treasure afforded to a priest and pastor –ministering to my congregation and seeing my parishioners! It will be good to be back home!
Fr. Ed Namiotka
Pastor
