I entered one house where there was a lady in her eighties. Her sister who was also housebound and shared the same room.
Their two daughters were also present as well as the four-year old great grandson of one of them.
In the room was a table on which were states and pictures of Saints and Jesus .
I had seen similar altars full of Holy things in the of houses of some of the elderly Italians that I have taken communion to over the years.
The devotion and sincerity of the prayers was obvious.
After praying together, we chatted for a while.
‘I was taught these things by the nuns‘ said the most senior lady in the room .
I smiled as I remembered those consecrated women who left everything behind and came to this faraway place to witness to the gospel. I have heard so many elderly people in the area speak fondly of those nuns. There were no phones or air conditioners, certainly no mobiles!
I could imagine them smiling at us from heaven.
So many cultures so many traditions in so many places yet one faith!
As looked at the four-year old great grandchild, I clearly remembered myself with my grandmother at about the same age in the mid-fifties .
Mass was in Latin (she went to mass everyday) she often took me with her.
She often gave me lollies during mass, it kept me occupied.
However, I had no doubt how important this event going on in that mysterious language was for her and her companions.
She also showered me with unconditional love .
I felt sure that young child was also soaking in the genuine love and prayer happening in that room.
Let the children come to me!
