Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

MELBOURNE | Emerging from a throng of students headed to lunch, Daniel A. makes his way to the Sullivan Ministry Center chapel to spend some quiet time with the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration. Reflecting on his experience, Daniel expressed, "It’s amazing that we’re given the opportunity to spend time with Jesus Christ, who is God, and have a time to be separate from the world and experience peace."

Joining Daniel in this spiritual journey is Katherine T., who shared her motivation for becoming a Eucharistic 'Watcher', saying, “I chose to become a Eucharistic ‘Watcher’ because I wanted a strong relationship with Jesus and knew this was a great opportunity to do so.” Katherine emphasized the sense of peace she feels in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, stating, “I always feel at complete peace before the Lord. Knowing that Jesus is there eases my mind and I feel calm in His presence.”

Deacon Darrell Buono, a school theology teacher, highlighted the importance of making the Blessed Sacrament available for Eucharistic Adoration, noting, “So many have lost the sense of the Real Presence, but there’s still a hunger for God. That’s the irony in it.” He emphasized the goal of providing young people and the school community with an experience that can potentially impact their lives significantly.

The profound impact of Eucharistic Adoration was further echoed by students like Matthew A., who emphasized the attraction of the Living Body of Jesus Christ present on the altar, and London M., who stressed the importance of taking time out of the day to be with Jesus and expressing gratitude for the experience. Nicolas A. also shared his perspective, underlining the significance of spending time in the presence of the Lord as a break from the demands of daily life.

In the midst of their busy school schedules, these students have found solace, peace, and a deepening of their faith through Eucharistic Adoration, reaffirming their devotion to Christ and their desire for a closer relationship with Him.