October ends with a day/evening of masks. During the past two years+, the word, mask, has come to be a symbol of protection, as well as a sign of care for others, and even for some, another reason to complain, or a matter calling for resistance, opposition to science and defiance of common sense.

Halloween masks are usually associated with pretense, concealing our identity, and maybe allowing ourselves to escape the seriousness of everyday life.

But in the presence of our God, we live unmasked even though we may have masked ourselves TO ourselves. And why do we live this masked life? Is it our image of God that induces us to be afraid of what might be revealed to us in the silence of our souls? Do we need to prove ourselves worthy of our Creator and so we cover up our fears with self-righteous proofs of our goodness? Do we follow the rules because they give us the false security that promises us rewards for obedience?

This month, can we remove our masks and pray: 

O God, help me believe that you see me as I am and you are in love with me, your beloved one. Teach me to open my eyes and find myself embraced by you. Whisper in my ear that I have been made worthy by your loving. Give me the courage to proclaim your love to all without distinction. Let me look into my own eyes and see you smiling back at me. And then invite me to see you behind all the masks around me.

-Sister Christine Kresho, CSJ