Easter

I experienced my first Catholic Easter this weekend. Although I'm still unable to receive Eucharist, it was an amazing experience just to attend a Catholic Easter Mass. Beautiful lilies and orchids surrounded the alter, where six large white candles were lit. In addition to the candles on the alter, each member of the congregation held a lit handle as they confirmed their baptism in the faith.

Spending my Easter weekend in Independence, I was able to attend my high school church for Easter services. St. Mary's, the church that I attended monthly for four years of my life, was now filled with members from the community instead of anxious high school students. Dressed in their Sunday best, including suits and hats, people of all generations spent their Easter Sunday in the Church confirming their baptismal vows.

It was an amazing experience. Sitting in the pew at St. Mary's, while those around me went forward to receive Eucharist, I realized how much I am looking forward to being a part of this community and being able to take Eucharist.

It seems like a miniscule thing, but the Eucharist is the action that mass is centered around and not being able to partake in it is depressing.

I'm ready and I cannot wait.