Next we usually dip our fingers into the holy water fonts & make the sign of the cross.  At St. Bede's we are particularly blest. Our church is filled with many signs and symbols.  Here each font (stoup) tells a different story, a different message.  Some are symbols of one of the persons of the Blessed Trinity, some a scripture verse or story.  (More detailed descriptions are available at the annual church tour of the signs and symbols of St. Bede's and is coming to our web site soon).  We sign ourselves with the holy water as a reminder of our Baptism and the lifestyle that should be reflected because of that sacrament. 

Then we enter the church.  As we look around we notice that the predominant color or type of flowers reflect the season, as do the cloths on the furnishings in the sacristy.  The sun may be filtering through the stain glass windows and their artist ensured that they too have a story to tell us if we but take the time to notice.   We are in the church about ten minutes before mass begins as there is much for us to do.  As we sit down we look around at those around us to gather them into our prayers-what needs do they have, what needs of others do we bring to this assembly.  Silently we name them.  What do we bring with us:  what happened this week that we want to offer thanksgiving, what joy or happiness did I experience that I want to express my appreciation; what do I need to forgive or need forgiveness, where do I need God's wisdom and strength to face in the coming week;