A Spirit filled experience in Acono
One of the most spirit filled experiences I treasure, as a deacon, is last Palm Sunday at the St Therese parish in Acono, St Joseph valley.
Acono, is a small village nestled at the base of the mountain, on the eastern side of the valley of St Joseph. Its most famous call to fame is the Ortinola estate, that was once leased to the Cadbury brothers, who used it as a source of cocoa beans for their famous chocolates.
I met the small gathering at the sheltered bus stop, on the banks of a small river. As I looked at the shaded, clean, gently flowing stream, I imagined being at the river Jordon. My arrival signaled the start of the music and vibrant upbeat singing of Entering into Jerusalem. The music – the strumming of guitar, maracas shaking and drums beating , kept up a lively rhythm, and we were on our way walking to the parish church.
Walking along the river, through the village with the palms waving procession, filled me with joy and a deep feeling of gratitude to Our Lord Jesus Christ. As I looked at the crucifix held aloft and facing me , tears filled my eyes , thinking of what Jesus went through for me to enjoy this experience.
On arrival at the parish church we were greeted by even more amplified music with cymbals and electric guitar belting out music to make you want to dance.
The Word and Communion Service was a most moving sharing as we reflected on Our Lord entering into Jerusalem and his subsequent Passion and Death on a cross.
The service over, the congregation shared a prepared meal together. With tight hugs and pats on the back we ministered to each other. I left Acono that midday with feelings of belonging, joy and gratitude and a deep sense of being blessed.