Sr. M. Dolores Belland shares how her task as liturgist contributes to the renewal of the world in Christ...
What is your task?
I currently have the unmerited privilege and joy of preparing the liturgy and playing the organ for Holy Mass, Benediction, and other liturgical celebrations of our community at our provincial house in Waukesha, Wisconsin.
How do you think that what you do makes a difference in the world?
I have been called to Schoenstatt to serve the mission of the Mother Thrice Admirable in renewing the world in Christ. What a beautiful and effective way it is to do this through the Holy Mass! My work with the liturgy—the choice of hymns, the music and its presentation—serves to assist the souls of those participating in Holy Mass to be open for the graces made available to them in the celebration of the Eucharist. As an instrument of the Holy Spirit, I am allowed to assist him in drawing souls more deeply into the heart of Christ in the Eucharistic Mystery taking place on the altar and in the reception of Holy Communion. What we experience in Holy Mass, in benediction, and in other liturgical celebrations as community, has an empowering effect on our souls to live the “Holy Mass of everyday life.”
Preparing the liturgy with appropriate, uplifting music, as well as times of silence and meditation, serves not only the souls of those present, but also extends well beyond the walls of our chapel. Because we are all united in the Mystical Body of Christ, and each participant also carries in their heart those especially dear to them, as well as those they are consciously praying for, the effects may serve the entire Church and beyond!
What do you especially like about your task?
One of the most beautiful aspects of working with the liturgy has been coordinating the music, hymns, etc. with the readings of Holy Mass and the celebration of the various liturgical seasons of the Church Year, as well as for the celebration of the saints, and other special occasions. So often I have experienced the work of the Holy Spirit in planning the liturgy, when all of a sudden fitting hymns or music related to the readings for Holy Mass or to the themes of the liturgical season come to mind without having even thought about it! Then, I really experience the Holy Spirit at work and what it means to be his little instrument, like the Blessed Mother. The words of Psalm 115, “Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory,” are a perfect expression of the instrumental character of my task.
Just as the Blessed Mother prepared the apostles for the Holy Spirit in prayer and song, so she also wishes to re-create that “Cenacle experience” when we gather as a community in prayer. I am grateful for the opportunity to be her little instrument in this divine endeavor.
What other tasks have been entrusted to you in your life as a sister?
In addition to preparing the liturgy and playing the organ, etc. for well over 25 years at the different houses that I have been stationed at, I have also had the joy to work – simultaneously – in various areas of the medical field: in Occupational Therapy and as an Activity Director in a nursing home (15 years), assisting with the care of our sick and elderly sisters, working at our Nutritional Center for children in the Dominican Republic; as well as five years as a member of our Adoration Sisters’ community.
It is always a joy to serve the mission of our Mother Thrice Admirable, Queen and Victress of Schoenstatt!