The Eucharist and The Immaculate Virgin Mary St. John (“don”) Bosco’s Vision of the Two Columns

02-04-2024Letter from the PastorFr. Don Kline, V.F.

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

On May 30, 1862, Don Bosco recounted a dream he had: “In the midst of this endless sea, two solid columns, a short distance apart, soar high into the sky. One is surmounted by a statue of the Immaculate Virgin, at whose feet a large inscription reads:” ‘Auxilium Christianorum’ (‘Help of Christians’). The other, far loftier and sturdier, supports a Host of proportionate size, and bears beneath it the inscription: ‘Salus credentium’ (‘Salvation of believers’).

“The flagship commander – the Roman Pontiff- standing at the helm, strains every muscle to steer his ship between the two columns, from whose summits hang many anchors and strong hooks linked to chains. The entire enemy fleet closes in to intercept and sink the flagship at all costs. They bombard it with everything they have: books and pamphlets, incendiary bombs, firearms, cannons. The battle rages ever more furious. Beaked prows ram the flagship again and again, but to no avail, as, unscathed and undaunted, it keeps on its course. At times, a formidable ram splinters a gaping hole in its hull, but immediately, a breeze from the two columns instantly seals the gash.

“Meanwhile, enemy cannons blow up; firearms and beaks fall to pieces; ships crack up and sink to the bottom. In blind fury, the enemy takes to hand-to-hand combat, cursing and blaspheming. Suddenly the Pope falls, seriously wounded. He is instantly helped up, but struck a second time, dies. A shout of victory rises from the enemy, and wild rejoicing seeps their ships. But no sooner is the Pope dead than another takes his place. The captains of the auxiliary ships elected him so quickly that the news of the Pope’s death coincides with that of his successor’s election. The enemy’s self-assurance wanes.

“Breaking through all resistance, the new Pope steers his ship safely between the two columns; first, to the one surmounted by the Host, and then the other, topped by the statue of the Virgin. At this point, something unexpected happens. The enemy ships panic and disperse, colliding with and scuttling each other.

“Some auxiliary ships, which had gallantly fought alongside their flagship, are the first to tie up at the two columns. Many others, which had fearfully kept far away from the fight, stand still, cautiously waiting until the wrecked enemy ships vanish under the waves. Then they too head for the two columns, tie up at the swinging hooks and ride safe and tranquil beside their flagship. A great calm now covers the sea.” (Memoirs, Vol. VII. pp. 107-108)

Note: Some think that John Paul II is the pope who, in mystical terms, was speedily elected after Pope John Paul I’s death, only 33 days after his election. In any case, the two pillars to avoid shipwreck or train wreck are the Eucharist and Mary. The gates of hell shall not prevail against the Church, the Bride of Christ.

“Consecrate yourselves today to the Lord. . . that He may bestow upon you a blessing this day.” (Exodus 32:29) “Who else among you will contribute generously and consecrate themselves to the Lord this day?” (1 Chronicles 29:5) “Consecrate yourselves to the Lord, for tomorrow He will do wonders among you.” (Joshua 3:5)

The Eucharist is God, Our Lord Jesus Christ!

Here is a prayer to express your devotion and dedication to Him:

Prayer of Consecration to The Most Holy Eucharist
Jesus, my Lord and my God, truly present - Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity in the Most Holy Eucharist, I believe in Thy Real Presence. I love Thee above all things with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I thank Thee for giving Thyself and remaining with us in the Most Blessed Sacrament. I worship and adore Thee profoundly. I wholeheartedly consecrate myself entirely to Thee today through Mary, Mother of the Eucharist and my mother, Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Amen.

God Bless,

Fr. Don Kline, V.F.