Watching the Holy Father.
Posted by Terry Nelson on Apr 22nd, 2008
His prayer after Communion.
At the Mass in Yankee stadium, the television camera remained a long time on the face of Pope Benedict while he made his thanksgiving after distributing Holy Communion. The Holy Father’s eyes were open but downcast, while he appeared to be completely recollected. I was impressed that he seemed completely absorbed in prayer. His demeanor reminded me of St. Francis De Sales, who it is said, while deep in prayer, he simply looked down, his eyes downcast yet open, so as to avoid any ostentation of piety.
April 22nd, 2008 at 11:23 am
I wish I could concentrate like that. I have to keep my eyes closed; I’m so easily distracted.
April 22nd, 2008 at 11:57 am
Gosh, I never thought about anyone thinking that I was “acting” piuos by closing my eyes during prayer (such as after communion.) Now that is just something else to worry about, the piety police. I guess I always recognized that I am personally so pitiful that my eyes would wander all over the place, then my mind would wander along with them(”What should I get for groceries? Mrs.S sure got her hair cut short this time. Father looks tired. I wonder if anyone can see my bra lines…”) Now with the five kids, I shut them super tight and fold my hands till my nuckles are white as a sign to THEM that I am praying and off-limits to conversations about all of the things that their eyes and mind have wandered to (”My knees hurt. Can we get donuts after mass? Who is that? Something smells funny, I think it is that bald grandpa guy.”) Closing of the eyes is a momentarily closed door to the world, the time to concentrate on Christ.
Of couse ostentation of piety would refer to piety for show, so if one has the interior movement toward actual piety desiring that which is pleasing to God and not man, then the reaction of others to a genuine display of piety is the chatter of those who should worry more about their own behavior and not of yours. If you are really into God, you aren’t really self-aware enough to think about what other folks are thinking about You.
It was amazing how prayerful the Holy Father was even in settings not thought of as peaceful, meditative, or prayerful. His mind is just so clear and focused. Likewise, when he met with people individually he gave each his full, undivided attention. You could see that he loved them. Awsome!
-Jennifer
April 22nd, 2008 at 4:55 pm
What Jennifer said!
Let’s not worry about the piety police.
April 22nd, 2008 at 4:59 pm
I was simply making an observation - I’m impressed by the Holy Father’s piety. The anecdote about St. Francis was from a biography I read. Anyway - I close my eyes all of the time - except when I’m waving my hands in the air like I just don’t care - then I’m wild-eyed! LOL!