Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and kindle in them the fire of Thy love. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth. Let us pray.
23 April 2024, El Paso, Texas, Steven Zimmerman – I took a small trip down memory lane today. I found myself in El Paso, Texas, with extra time on my hands, and visited the Most Holy Trinity Church. This was where I attended second grade in 1976-77.
That was me, back in 1977.
At the time I was attending this school, I wasn’t yet Catholic. I had little to no idea about religion, faith, and God. My biggest concern was if we were having western burgers, or pizza for lunch. There is, however, one other thing I remember clearly, other than the nuns- chapel, and the Christmas musical.
The Christmas musical was fun. I was a reindeer and would jingle this strip of bells during different songs. I can even remember what I was wearing! Orange corduroy pants and a stripped shirt. Hey, it was the seventies. What did you expect?
Once a week we were all taken to the chapel, which was then attached to the school, for a sort of Mass. Those who had taken First Communion already would receive the Body of Christ. Others, like myself, would receive a blessing.
That blessing each Friday was a source of strength. My home life wasn’t the best, but I know that minor act from the Priest each week kept me going. It gave me strength. As I was preparing for this piece, while editing photos and writing, I recalled the blessing. Each Friday, it was almost the same:
The Lord bless you and keep you: The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you: The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. May the Lord grant you mercy and bring you into His Church.
Little did any of us know that this humble blessing by a Parish/School priest found fulfillment 4 October 2020.
Hopefully, I can go back and visit the school, when class is not in session.
Click the photos below to see them in full size.
All photos copyright 2024 by Steven E Zimmerman. These photos are not for commercial use.
Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church & School
