It was the fifth Sunday of Lent. In the Catholic tradition people preparing to be accepted into the faith and sacraments participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA). Part of that journey includes three Sundays during Lent in which the community of faith participate in prayerful scrutinies with the people preparing to be received into the Church. They are called catechumens.
My former Kindergarten teacher and her sister lovingly and tirelessly lead the RCIA ministry at San Carlos Cathedral. On the 5th Sunday of Lent we read the Gospel of John’s story about Lazarus. My teacher (and she was ever so patient with me as a toddler!) roped me into playing the part of Lazarus for an enactment of the gospel. I was wrapped in a white cloth from head to toe. I couldn’t see and it was hard to breathe. I had to relax and just let go. I sat in front of the altar for 20 minutes before mass and then during mass until the gospel moment when the stone is rolled away and Jesus called me out. By the time we read the gospel I was immersed in imagination of Lazarus. I was deeply touched by the voice of Jesus calling me from death into life. I felt my immobility ad vulnerability as the catechumens freed me from my linen wrappings and guided me to walk the length of the church supporting me every steps of the way into the light of day.
Only Jesus our masterful storyteller could imagine a teacher and once upon a time a unformed disciple of Christ rejoined and preparing to share the story of Lazarus… the layers of meaningful overtones are too rich to unpack…
Here’s a link to a blog post reflecting on the Story of Lazarus…
Have you ever been part of a bible story enactment? Will you please consider sharing a picture and story?