A Look At opus Dei #3

A reader asked me what I noticed at the "Day of Recollection" and what I learned.

This was the second "Day of Recollection" (morning) that I attended and the format was the same for both.

The day began with Mass at 8:0 a.m. in a San Antonio, Texas Catholic church offered by the parish pastor--not the Opus Dei priest. This was the parish's regular Saturday Mass and was attended by the parishioners--men, women and children--as well as those men who were attending the day of recollection.

After Mass, approximately 8:30 a.m., those attending the morning recollection went over to the parish hall for a half hour breakfast (breakfast tacos) and fellowship. Those wishing to contribute dropped in a dollar or two for the breakfast.

At around 9:00 a.m. were asked to remain silent for the remainder of the morning and returned to the church. The Opus Dei priest led a reflection on "Mass Center of Life".

At 9:30 a.m. we returned to parish hall where an Opus Dei layman led a short reflection on Mass, other prayers, etc. in our daily life as Catholic men.

At approximately 9:55 a.m. we returned to the church at which time another Opus Dei layman led an examination of conscience, reflecting primarily on Mass in our life and our life in the Church.

At about 10:00 a.m. the Opus Dei priest led a reflection on the letter 1 Peter dealing with "Royal Priesthood" and what this means for us Catholic laymen. For example: Praying constantly, sacrificing, etc. The priest referring to Paul's letter to the Philippians also noted our need to have Christ reign in our lives and to offer reparation for others as well as for ourselves.

At around 10:30 a.m. the morning recollection was concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

The Opus Dei priest heard confessions--the Sacrament of Reconciliation--between his reflections and after Benediction for those wishing to receive the Sacrament.