Custodians

In my deacon class on Saturday, we learned a lot about the theology of ministry and orders and in specific the role of the deacon. Something caught my attention. It maybe just went by the others but in one document it said that the deacon is the presenter and custodian on the Eucharist. It is the word custodian that struck me. not so much at first but it kept coming back to me. What does that mean to be the custodian of the Eucharist?

I usually think of a custodian in context of school custodian. That is someone who cleans the school. Not all that glamorous. The dictionary defines custodian as: a person who has responsibility for or looks after something. Some synonyms for custodian are: keeper, protector, guardian and steward. Honestly, I like the synonyms better but perhaps custodian is the better word. For me, the word custodian implies a role requiring more humility and servitude. Perhaps that is why the word captivates me more. The role of a deacon will certainly require more humility and servant attitude from me.

When I stop to think of Eucharist as the body of Christ and then put with that the words; keeper, protector, guardian and steward, I understand the noble cause for which I may be appointed. 

The Knights of Columbus talk about knighthood in service to our King and the importance of constantly forming yourself in the faith. A knight was to always be ready to defend, protect and guard their king. How much more so for us as custodians on our Lord Jesus Christ.

I would be lying if I said I feel worthy of such responsibility. It is a great honor to even be considered for such an honor.

The other day we were having praise and worship at our church. After some praise and worship time, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for adoration. Our deacon was unable to make it that night so I was asked to bring Jesus from the tabernacle to the monstrance. I said, yes but then immediately felt unworthy as I realized that I would be carrying Jesus in my hands. 

I prayed the whole time leading up the moment that I would be able to worthily present Jesus to all who were present. So, I left the youth room, called the Upper Room(because it is upstairs) to go the chapel to get Jesus from the tabernacle and carry him to the Upper Room. I was overcome with emotion as I realized the symbolism that these actions carried with them. I was carrying Jesus to the Upper Room. To say the least, it was a very moving experience.