Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Orlando, Feb 29 2024 - The Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe recently hosted a Vigil to Dry Tears, where participants sought healing for their body, mind, and soul. The event was marked by moments of deep emotion and spiritual connection.

“We come to you for healing Lord, of body, mind and soul. And pray that by your Spirit’s touch, we may again be whole,” sang the choir at the opening of the service. These words set the tone for the evening of reflection and prayer.

Bishop John Noonan, in a short homily, emphasized the importance of experiencing God's mercy and love. He stated, “Tears cleanse the mind, heart and the soul. So that our response to God is simply, mercy Lord. Thank you, Lord, for your love and merciful care for each and every one of us.”

One attendee, Alex Carey, expressed how the experience deeply impacted him. Overwhelmed with emotion, he knelt before the image of the Virgin Mary and began to sob. Patricia Marques, a fellow parishioner, reached out to comfort him, offering a rosary and an image of Jesus. Marques shared, “Mary is with you. When you feel alone, hold this rosary and you are holding the hand of Mary. She is with you. And Jesus is with you.”

Reflecting on the significance of tears, Carey shared, “The tears are necessary for freedom because we must clean the soul to give that cross to Jesus and Mary. He’s not going to remove it, but will give you the strength to continue as they did. What we did here tonight was beautiful.”

Carey's friend, Austin Adams, also found the experience powerful, stating, “To see his healing… Then when I was up there, I prayed for my friend whose father has chronic pain. It was nice to be able to bear it all out there and trust in the Lord. We can all learn something from Alex.”

The event also prompted deeper reflection in attendees like Nicole, Marques’s daughter, who found the music and atmosphere led to contemplation on spiritual growth and community.

Throughout the evening, four priests were available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, providing further opportunities for healing and reflection.

The Vigil to Dry Tears at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe served as a poignant reminder of the power of faith, prayer, and seeking solace in times of need.