Victor R. Claveau, MJ
One of my greatest pet peeves having to listen to people who gather at the back of the church and talk loudly about one issue or another as soon as the priest leaves the sanctuary. They disregard the fact that they are on holy ground, for Jesus is present in the tabernacle.
“Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). God expects and demands from every thinking person some attention, some recognition, some thought, some prayer, some honor, some homage.
Thanksgiving After Communion
It is proper to pay respect to Our Lord, whom we are carrying away within us.
In order to “hear” Jesus we must learn to listen. Listening requires quieting your mind and being open to Him. Do not be in a hurry to get back to your daily responsibilities. The few minutes spent with the Lord will reap many spiritual benefits.
You may have to resume your thanksgiving after the dismissal. This is the time to adore, offer thanks, and make your petitions. These are precious moments, open your soul to His transforming action; allow Him to take possession of you, to establish Himself in your soul so that He may live in you. “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). For the short time that we usually devote to thanksgiving after Holy Communion it would be best to utter the thoughts that arise in us through the intercession of Holy Spirit. Consequently, there is no prescribed method of thanksgiving.