The value of sacred spaces

The Second Book of Chronicles tells us: “When Solomon finished his prayer, fire came down from heaven and devoured the burnt offering and the sacrifices. The glory of the Lord filled the temple, and the priests could not enter it because the glory of the Lord filled the temple. The Israelites, when they saw the fire and the glory of the Lord coming down to the temple, fell on their faces to the ground on the pavement and worshiped and gave thanks to the Lord, because he is good, because his mercy endures forever” (2 Chronicles 7:1- 3)

King Solomon with all his splendor and greatness, accompanied by the priests, levites and the people, consecrates the temple of Jerusalem to the Lord God. For the people of Israel, their temple will be the center of all religious life; Their faith assures that the God of hosts lives in that place. The great temple of Jerusalem will be the guarantee of a constant presence of company and protection.

Every good Israelite had to go to the temple on a pilgrimage to celebrate the Passover of liberation, in the same way, there is worship, offerings, sacrifices, etc.

With the arrival of Jesus of Nazareth the old temple will pass, to make way for the NEW TEMPLE. The Gospel of Saint John tells us: “And he found in the Temple those who sold oxen, sheep, and doves, and the money changers at their stalls. Making a whip out of ropes, he drove everyone out of the Temple…and said…”Take this away from here. Do not make my Father's house a market house” (John 2, 14-16) The “new Temple” will no longer be made of stones, but will be Christ himself.

The community of believers lives the reality of the New Temple in buildings built and dedicated to celebrate life and faith. Our parish community returns again to the House (parish Temple) to celebrate life in God.

The sign of the parish temple reminds us of the call to live united in Christ.

Let us make our “House/Temple” a space for fraternal encounter, where we live and celebrate the following of Christ, as Lord, giver of life and salvation.

Let us value this sacred space (Parish Temple) consecrated to the Lord and continue building community.

Blessings to all.

Rev. Sergio Arcila

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