Message from Fr. Mike
Report on the Five-Day Holy Hour and Eucharistic Witness
This was truly a grace-filled and unforgettable time for our parish community as we journeyed through a five-day Holy Hour Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The event began on Monday, June 16, and concluded on Friday, June 20. From the outset, there was some concern that there might be periods when the Blessed Sacrament would be left unattended. However, that fear was quickly dispelled. In a beautiful testament to the deep faith and devotion of our community, parishioners came forward with great enthusiasm to pray and meditate before the Blessed Sacrament, ensuring that every minute from Monday through Friday was faithfully accompanied.
Throughout the five days, suggested Scripture passages guided participants in their meditation: three passages from Monday to Wednesday, two on Thursday, and one on Friday. Providentially, the reading chosen for Friday—Luke 10:1-37—proved to be especially meaningful. It recounts the moment when Jesus sends out the seventy-two disciples in pairs to proclaim the Good News, which is our reading this weekend. This passage became a fitting conclusion to our Adoration, as it emphasized the natural next step: to go forth and share the fruit of our prayer and time spent with the Lord.
Indeed, that is what many of us did. Immediately following the conclusion of our Holy Hour, we joined the parishioners of Sacred Heart Church in Altadena for their Corpus Christi procession. The event was profoundly moving and deeply connected to the themes of solidarity and mission. It began with dinner alongside those who had lost their homes in the devastating Eaton Canyon wildfire. We listened to their testimonies, bore witness to their resilience, and stood with them in prayer and support.
Following the meal, we celebrated Mass with and for the victims, then proceeded to walk in a Eucharistic procession that covered more than a mile through the surrounding neighborhoods. As we processed, we saw the ruins—burnt homes, trees, cars, and many personal belongings reduced to ashes. Step by step, we lifted up prayers to the Lord, present in the Blessed Sacrament, asking His blessing upon these empty lots, the families who once lived there, and all those who are now faced with the task of rebuilding their lives. We prayed for wisdom, courage, and patience for each of them.
The procession was a remarkable moment of Church unity and compassion. People came from all over the country—New York, Minnesota, and various parts of the East Coast—to walk with us. Seven bishops, including Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Papal Nuncio to the United States, and Bishop Andrew Cozzens of Crookston, Minnesota, joined the procession. Many priests and religious, including two priests from China, also participated. Together, we formed a living sign of the universal Church standing in solidarity with the victims.
Reflecting on the entire week, one key theme shines through: the power of community and the grace of solidarity. The Holy Spirit moved us not only to adore Christ in the Blessed Sacrament but also to become His witnesses in the world. What began as a week of prayer quietly unfolded into a mission of accompaniment and hope. This was not our plan—it was the Lord’s. We simply said yes to His invitation.
We are deeply grateful to Ms. Frances Inafuku and her dedicated team for their excellent coordination of the five-day Holy Hour. Their effort and commitment were instrumental in the success of this beautiful spiritual experience.
To God be the glory and honor, now andforever.
Fr. Mike
