Camino Sin Nombre: Catholic Mass on the Road

Sunday, July 21, 2019

Catholic Mass on the Road

In years past, I sadly have been on road trips where I haven't fulfilled my Sunday obligation. This time, though, I was determined to make it to Mass both Sundays. Aside from the actual obligation part, I enjoy spending time in other Catholic churches around the country.

The Grand Canyon (our third and final National Park - you can read about Zion & Bryce, if you missed those posts), though, looked like it could be a bit of a challenge. Still, the church website (which I had researched ahead of time) was helpful in determining location and times. (I'm glad my friend suggested we try for the Saturday evening option, which is what we ended up doing.)

El Cristo Rey Chapel was small and simple...and we got there pretty early. Even after waiting in the car for about 20 minutes we were still the first ones in the door. The pastor, Fr. Rafael, was there to greet us, inquire about our names and from where we came, ask me to read the First Reading and Psalm, and invite us to sign the guestbook. (He then used the guestbook at the beginning of Mass to introduce the 20 or so of us who were in attendance. And for those who were late, well, they had to introduce themselves. Lesson learned.) The chapel itself was small, fitting probably up to 30 people at any given time, yet furnished with an altar, tabernacle, pews, and statues/icons on the wall. It was a beautiful space.

That Mass truly turned out to be a blessing - I was filled with a sense of peace and joy in being with the other tourists who had taken time out of their travels to find the church and worship. It gave me so much hope! (Plus, the Gospel was about the Good Samaritan, and I would have hated to miss that one.)

If you ever find yourself in the Grand Canyon on the weekend, do yourself a favor and go visit El Cristo Rey Chapel and Fr. Rafael. You won't be disappointed.