Grotto Mass Reflection

Attending Mass outdoors at the Lourdes Grotto on campus has been very special to me. I would often visit the Grotto to say a prayer or sit in peace and nature, looking up at Our Lady of Lourdes on the structure. It has been a place of reflection for me during stressful and joyful moments as a student. The weather there is so calming, with a gentle breeze that greets me while I’m there. Being outside and listening to the Mass readings during the Liturgy of the Word outside is impactful because I am in the midst of God’s creation surrounding me. As Psalm 66:4 reads, All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing the praises of your name”. This verse from the Bible is on full display when I am at Mass at the Grotto: all nature around me has reverence and awe for God. The birds flying above, the sun that shines brightly onto the altar and the trees that provide us shade all point back to their Creator. This is a reminder to me that I am his creation too, and I am loved by Him. During the Celebration of the Eucharist, I am reminded of our mission statement for university ministry, that is “to make visible and tangible the Incarnate Word of God”. God’s glory is both visible and tangible to all on our campus when Mass is celebrated at the Lourdes Grotto.  

Lorena Gutierrez  

Media Ministry 

University Mission & Ministry