Homily: April 12, 2025, Fifth saturday in Lent (Sanctuary).

 “I will multiply them and put my sanctuary among them forever. My dwelling shall be with them.” 

Growing up in one of the Eastern Catholic Churches was truly one of the greatest blessings of my life. I grew up in the Syro-Malabar Church, which is the largest Eastern Catholic Church. Our theology, liturgy and history are distinct from the Western Church but are in full communion with the Pope in Rome.

In our tradition, the sanctuary, the high altar and the tabernacle are at all times veiled with a large curtain that separates and covers the sanctuary from the congregation. The curtain is drawn and unveiled only during the Divine Liturgy, that is when Mass is being celebrated.

Only the priest, sacristan, and altar servers are allowed to enter the sanctuary with respectful behavior and deep reverence. From a very young age, we were taught that the altar is utmost sacred, that the sanctuary is the Holy of Holies, like the inner temple of Israel. The veil served as a visible reminder of this sacredness.

I feel privileged that since young, I have learnt through that tradition, the ability to discern what is sacred and what is secular.

I remember a particular day when I was in ninth grade. No altar servers had shown up for Mass that day, and the newly assigned priest thought I was also an altar boy and so asked me to help him. But I was not an altar boy and had never served before, so I was hesitant, both nervous and shy. But I said yes and assisted him quite well.

After Mass that day, my father was so happy and proud of me. Only years later when I entered the seminary, he then told me, “I still remember the first time you served at the altar, to me it was your first step towards the priesthood.”

So, when I hear this phrase, “I will put my sanctuary among them forever, my dwelling shall be with them”, I remember the sacred sanctuaries of our churches.

Yes, God dwells in our churches, in every tabernacle. Furthermore, when we receive Holy Communion, He comes to dwell in our hearts. Our very body becomes His sanctuary, our heart becomes His tabernacle. His scaredness enters our being.

What an incredible gift. What a privilege! To have God living among us, to be called His children, and to carry His presence within us.

As we enter Holy Week, let us refresh our awareness of the sacredness of our lives, our churches, our bodies, our souls. God has made His dwelling with us. Let us receive Him with reverence, gratitude, and love.

Amen.