Reflecting on Anna: A Model of Devotion and Worship

Greetings on this the Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas
Readings: 1 Jn 2:12-17; Ps 96:7-8a, 8b-9, 10; Lk 2:36-40

Summary

There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

Reflection

We have many Anna’s in the Church. Women who dedicate their lives to the Church. They prepare the altar, aid the priest prepare for Mass. They clean the sanctuary, cook special meals for the clergy and organize just about any parish festival except for occasional help from the men. These women, and in defiance of their own difficulties, find a way to make the temple a home for themselves and for all who come to worship.

Personal Reflection – Remembering Gloria

My friend Gloria. She was a saint. And she is the Anna of our day. She fasted, she prayed, she welcomed. She gave thanks to God and spoke about the child [Jesus] to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

Obituary: https://www.palmswestfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Gloria-Van-Brocklin/#!/TributeWall

Be an Anna.

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/123024.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry