Between Christmas and Easter

Easter Vigil at the Seminary was packed. Like last year, we were unable to get seats, but unlike last year, we couldn't even get in the door. We spent the Mass standing just outside the main doors, which worked well for Randy who was trying to avoid exposure to incense.

At the close of Mass, before the final dismissal, our celebrant had a few acknowledgements and remarks. One particularly stood out. He observed the size of the crowd at the Vigil, similar to the turnout at Christmas, but then he said something that surprised me. He pointed out that often the church is full for these two holidays, but then in between it's "Bai bai," (bye-bye). I was taken aback to hear him say this because even in my very limited (and in Chinese, so very, very limited) dealings with him, his welcoming enthusiasm is obvious.  Rather than continue in admonishment, though, he spoke with love and encouragement. He acknowledged that perhaps the biggest obstacle for many was actually getting to the church.  The parish is quite a ways from any main street, not at all close to the bus lines or the Metro (this being a primarily migrant congregation, private cars and taxis are rarely viable options). He said that if the problem was a matter of transportation, then (in Chinese, obviously), "you can call me (gesturing to himself for emphasis), and I will get you here."

I'll never know how many people take him up on this offer, or how far he will end up going to reach those who do seek his help. But it's out there, his personal invitation to tend to each individual in this giant flock.