Letters

Sacramental Graces

Posted

Grace is an unmerited favor from God and is a manifestation of His mercy. I thank Bishop Gerardo Colacicco for closely connecting the graces received from the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist to the Sacrament of Confession in his CNY Aug. 27 article, “How Catholics Respond to the Gift of the Eucharist.” I think our souls are watered with grace in confession so that a greater fruition blossoms in the Holy Eucharist. 

I believe that the graces of the Holy Eucharist are stronger, more influential and go much further for the good of others and for eternal life in the Kingdom of God when combined with those of confession. Bishop Colaccicco states “those who humble themselves by a good confession” imitate Jesus; this guilt is shared and taken on by those in persona Christi. I believe we lay people have a responsibility and obligation to receive the graces of confession for the good of our souls—to strengthen us. We may tend to place ourselves first, thus leaving little time for God and others. With strength from God, we are empowered to do much more for God and others, and to think more with the heart and mind of God. 

In our current world, it’s a time for the creative charity of God, for example, we cannot give people “a kiss hello” but the church organist gave me a “kiss hello” by playing my favorite hymn prelude piece “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” when I came into church Sunday.

Gloria Ausubel
Port Ewen