Eucharistic Adoration is a beautiful way to set aside some quiet time for yourself to pray in the presence of Our Lord.
During this Year of the Real Presence, parishes around the Diocese are providing opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration. If you are not familiar with Adoration, or if it has been a while since you have been there, here is a beginner’s guide.
What is Adoration?
Adoration is worship of the Holy Eucharist outside of Mass. The Most Blessed Sacrament is reserved in a monstrance on an altar for all to see and pray in the presence of Christ.
Why should I go to Eucharistic Adoration?
“Anyone can benefit from Adoration if they are willing to sit and listen to what God has to say,” says Father Christopher Butera. It’s a wonderful time for quiet reflection, to have a conversation with God, to pray for help with life’s challenges, or to ask God for more vocations to the Priesthood and religious life.
How can I be successful in Adoration?
First of all, be patient. You’d think sitting with Jesus would be easy, but many people find it hard to sit still, and to put busy lives on ‘pause’ for a while. Start with five minutes, and work your way toward longer periods of Adoration.
Be okay with silence. It might seem uncomfortable at first, but being silent – especially in the presence of Jesus Christ – is a gift. Enjoy it. And resist the urge to check your email or your social media feed!
Pray. Start with a Hail Mary, or a Rosary, or just a quiet conversation with God. Bring scripture if you like. There are many prayer books and apps that contain daily scripture readings.
Where can I attend Eucharistic Adoration?
The Year of the Real Presence website has an up-to-date Adoration schedule at each parish, at www.yearofrealpresence.org/find-adoration/. That page also contains links to prayers and other resources for a successful and rewarding Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament.