Article by Ismenia Ginebra ’18:
On the evening of March 9, 2016, the Millennium Room was once again filled with the students of Kellenberg Memorial High School as they gathered together for XLT, a night where we adore our Lord Jesus Christ, present in the Eucharist.
The night kicked off with dinner in the cafeteria, where the students mingled amongst themselves and enjoyed each other’s company. After dinner, the students made their way to the Millennium Room, where they were greeted by the XLT Band. The students then gathered in front of the altar, as they put themselves in a prayerful and peaceful mood. Father Tom processed in with the Blessed Sacrament as the song “Heart of Worship” began. The students came together and sang as one while offering prayer to Jesus.
Soon after, the students had the opportunity to listen to this month’s XLT speaker, Mrs. York. Her witness talk focused on the truth that God has a big plan for each and every one of us as well as the moments in her life when her faith was her support system. Mrs. York spoke first of her mother and the special relationship she had with her. Having lost her mother to lung cancer in her first year of teaching, Mrs. York reflected on all the wonderful memories she has with her mother. She always, whenever she got a chance, visited her mom in the hospital, keeping her company and supporting her while she underwent her cancer treatments.
For Mrs. York, her faith is something she always leans on in her life. It was through this time in her life that she realized just how blessed she is to have Jesus to always fall back on and the support He never fails to give when we ask of it. Mrs. York also spoke about her son Anthony and the meaning behind the choice of his name. Mrs. York mom’s favorite saint was St. Anthony of Padua. She had a tendency to misplace her things and would always pray to him. It means a lot for her son to share something in common with her mom.
Mrs. York concluded her speech with this advice: whenever life is getting too much for you to handle, take a step back and remember that God will never abandon you. For it is through the sad and tough moments that we feel God more present in our lives, while making us realize how much we need Him. After Mrs. York’s inspiring speech, the students were once again led in song and prayer, lifting their voices to God.
Father Tom offered benediction of the Blessed Sacrament to all, and the night concluded with everyone singing Salve Regina. Kate Brynes, fellow member of the XLT Band, commented on this XLT: “I love going to XLT and singing in the band because it’s a great way to connect with Jesus while having fun with my friends.”
XLT truly offers the best combination of both. Come join in the next XLT on Wednesday, April 6, the first Wednesday after spring break.