I was asked to lead the Prayer of the Faithful for my Uncle’s funeral mass on Tuesday. Although I’ve come a long way in the past many years, I reminded my Aunt of my nervous giggling during my Grandparent’s 50th Anniversary Mass (over 10 years ago). It was not a small gathering. Our family events are huge with much representation of the clergy (as one of my Uncle’s is a preist). I giggled for 5 minutes straight during a simple 4-line prayer. Embarrassing! I figured they learned there lesson.
This time around, I wanted to do it right. I picked up my lines from my Cousin the night before at the wake. I read it – quietly, and out loud. I never felt quite ready though.
The morning of the event, my Dad called. He reported that he was in too much (physical) pain to attend the service. He would not be coming. I was disappointed and tried to remain neutral so that the rest of my day would to alright.
I went for a short (not so quick) run.
My run was mechanical, awkward, but effective. It cut into my beautifying time but helped me to get past it all. I finished the run ready to face the rest of the family and the inevitable questions regarding my Dad.
Later:
My presentation went well. No giggling and my one mistake went virtually un-noticed.
Ah, redeption.
“For those who could not be here today…We pray to the Lord”
Lord, hear our prayer.