By John Petty, Catholic Editor
Aquinas College Campus Ministry provides for the Campus Community everyday. Whether it is celebrating the Mass or hearing confessions, Aquinas College has a rich spiritual presence on campus. Furthermore, Campus Ministry offers the opportunity for one to sit in the presence of the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration.
Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life – John Petty
“Other than Communion, how many times can you say that you were physically with Jesus? It’s truly something marvelous,” said sophomore Mitchell Chrapek.
The practice of Adoration in the Catholic Church provides Christians for an opportunity to intimately encounter Christ in His presence in the Eucharist. During the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the Eucharist, and instructed his Apostles to continually do so. According to Catholic teaching, the Eucharist is truly Jesus Christ, though the appearances of bread and wine remain.
Stained glass image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus – Photo by John Petty
“Adoration is an event that I have found great joy and value in. A priest that I heard speak a few years ago said if you want to be more like Jesus spend more time with him in Adoration,” said senior Ryan Maddock.
Some students find Adoration as an opportunity for consolation and rest.
“Adoration is something that frees you from the businesses and monotony of life,” said Chrapek. “When I’m there with Our Lord, my worries fade away, and even if I get caught up in my head, when I refocus, He is still there.”
“Silent adoration can be particularly special because it allows Christ to speak to you,” said Maddock, “I encourage everybody to try adoration and see how it affects your life.”
Statue of Jesus – Photo by John Petty
Along with silent Adoration, every Tuesday evening at 8:00 p.m., Praise and Worship Adoration is held by Campus Ministry as well. During this time, confessions are also heard, usually by one of the friars. During this time, people may praise Jesus in song, or simply take it all in through prayer. Following Praise and Worship Adoration, students are able to view their experiences in light of Sacred Scripture during Prayer Night at 9:15 pm.
The Saint 