Student Stories: Mass on the Lawn
This semester has looked a bit different. We were unable to use our normal space for Mass so we have been meeting outdoors on a lawn near campus. This has been a unique experience for our students. Here is a reflection from one of our seniors:
Throughout quarantine, not having Mass in person was hard. The change and uncertain feeling of when we could resume normal in-person events increased my stress and discomfort. Even after my hometown church opened back up, it was still different, and I had a hard time adjusting to the change. When coming back to Hope, I was unsure about how Mass was going to be due to dioceses having different regulations to follow. After hearing that we were not able to have Mass on campus, I was disappointed and was a little worried about what going to church would look like this semester.
Even during this time of change and difficulty, adjusting to having outdoor Mass near campus has been a blessing. I love the feel of going to outdoor Mass and have even connected more with friends and peers due to this opportunity. One week, I invited a friend to come with me to Mass and now we walk and sit together on our blankets every week. I have also connected to peers more by having the opportunity to eat ice cream together outside after Mass and I have enjoyed doing outdoor activities with the Hope Catholics students. This time, even though uncertain, has demonstrated that the environment can change, but Jesus’ presence and help is constant. He is always there for us and His presence in the Sacrament of the Eucharist will never change, no matter the location. I have always related the sun’s warmth to Jesus’ warmth and sitting outside during Mass, I can feel Him shining upon me.
Kim Paquette is a senior from Hartland, MI. She is studying biology and psychology. After graduation she hopes to attend medical school.
Photos below were taken on Sunday, August 16th, 2020 during the first Mass of the fall semester.
