At ordination the cross becomes a mirror of self-discovery
Moving into a new priestly assignment inevitably ends up as a trip down “memory lane.” As I prepare in a few weeks to transition from 20 years in seminary work, I am finding this time to be no exception. I have been reminiscing, reflecting, and ruminating on the ways the Holy Spirit has stirred my heart over the past two decades – really, ever since my own priestly ordination 31 years ago.
I find my mind wandering back to my first visit to Assisi in 1987 as I was preparing to begin theological studies. With great fondness, I recall walking the streets Francis walked, seeing the places he saw, and praying before the same crucifix that spoke to him in the church of San Damiano in 1205. I was so moved during those days and on the many subsequent visits, that I placed the prayer of Saint Francis before the crucifix on my prayer card for ordination.
From the crucifix, Jesus called Francis by name, invited him to communion, and encouraged him to spend himself for Christ and His Church. Jesus’ very words were: “Francis, go rebuild my house; as you see, it is being destroyed.” For Saint Francis, these words and this experience would be at the heart and center of his life. “The San Damiano crucifix was his call to passionate conversion and his life was his response to that call.” (Kathy Berken)
The artist who painted the crucifix is unknown. Its significance derives from the Divine Master, whose words, over 800 years ago, would be impressed on Francis’ soul and become the source of his inner transformation. The encounter between Francis and the Crucified One was at the heart of his identity and mission, as it is for each and every priest, myself included.
This time of transition provides me with yet another opportunity to discover anew my identity in Jesus Christ and to embrace the call to follow Him closely, and to make my personal contribution to the rebuilding and renewing of His Holy Church in the present day.
During the Rite of Ordination of priests, the bishop hands the newly Ordained a paten holding the bread and a chalice containing the wine mixed with water for the celebration of Mass. The bishop says: “Receive the oblation of the holy people, to be offered to God. Understand what you do, imitate what you celebrate, and conform your life to the mystery of the Lord’s cross.”
From that moment at ordination and throughout the life of every priest, the cross becomes a sort of “mirror” of self-discovery. “The cross is a mirror. In seeing myself in that mirror, I see Christ Crucified, and in seeing Christ Crucified, I see my most authentic self. As I am transformed into that image, I become the person God has always intended me to be.” While my own life is far from that of Saint Francis, like him, I have seen and experienced the blessing of this truth over the past 20 years working in priestly formation.
With a grateful heart, I conclude with the beautiful prayer of Saint Francis before the crucifix at San Damiano. This prayer takes me back to Assisi in 1987. It brings to mind and heart my ordination in May of 1991 at the Cathedral Basilica in Newark. It traces its roots back to Aug. 15, 1965, when I was baptized into Christ and claimed by Him. By His grace and with His help, may we all continue to live in Him and radiate His presence.
Most high glorious God,
cast your light
into the darkness of my heart.
Instill in me correct faith,
certain hope,
perfect love
and a profound humility
with wisdom and perception,
in order that
I may ever do
what is truly
Your Holy Will.
– Saint Francis of Assisi
Monsignor Joseph Reilly, S.T.L., Ph.D., is the outgoing Rector and Dean of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology. After a sabbatical year, Msgr. Reilly will take up his new role as Vice Provost for Academics and Catholic Identity.
Featured image: An image of the San Damiano Cross is seen in this undated photo. (CNS photo/Public Domain)
