The Universal Church is really an emergency room for souls. I’ve been serving the Lord’s Supper as an assistant for the past 12 years, but on Sunday, I saw things in a different light. 

The tray, the bread, the grape juice; from person to person, one by one, like usual, alongside my fellow assistants, serving the body and blood of the Lord Jesus. But, as I glanced over, something caught my eye. What I would usually consider normal, today, touched me in such a way, I was unable to just shake it off.



Six people sat together in a row. Although they didn’t know each other, they seemed like old friends, linked by suffering and pain.



A woman sat with a cast on her leg; she appeared exhausted. There was an agitated young man with spiky red hair, full of needle marks and sores on his arm. There was a sad couple; they wouldn’t smile, show each other affection or even hold hands. Their teenage son sat next to them with his head down, looking discouraged. And little further down the row, there was a woman with long hair, a short skirt, high heels and smeared makeup.



Six people, six souls. They looked attentively at the altar while the pastor preached about the repentance of sins. They seemed to be struggling to rebuild their lives, hoping to get some type of leniency. The pastor’s words hit home.



As they receive the bread and the grape juice, they’re also receiving a second chance. The prayer begins and the Church becomes united in prayer. The six close their eyes. Some whisper, others awkwardly raise their voice. It doesn’t really matter because sincerity is the way to heaven. Some vent, some remain silent. The music stirs their thoughts. There’s forgiveness, praise and tears. Their spirit makes its plea. It’s their chance for salvation.



My God, how Your Work is Sacred! May the Holy Spirit continue guiding the Universal Church! And always keep us aware of the souls who cry out in distress.



Anonymous Assistant