Without My Veil: A Sign of Jesus’ Absence

The empty Tabernacle is a painful sight. I get to spend so much time in His presence almost everyday, but I cannot on Good Friday. The Tabernacle is empty, as the Eucharist was taken last night into repose elsewhere, hidden from the people as Jesus’ Spirit was hidden from us on that Good Friday 2,000 years ago. The red Tabernacle candle is out as a sign, and I will be a sign too. It has been a few years that I felt led in prayer to wear a veil in the presence of the Eucharistic Jesus. And I imagine it will be conspicuous tonight that, as I have worn a veil for all the other times I have been asked to serve as lector, I will read the announcements and serve as Speaker in the Gospel story of the Passion with my head uncovered. Many women have told me they would never wear a veil because they worry it will draw attention to them. But it’s actually about drawing attention to Jesus. The Lord has allowed me to be a sign of His presence.