Holy is Her Name

It’s funny how sometime we get so caught up in things that we fail to notice what should have been obvious all along. Yesterday was September 11. It is a date that will forever be remembered with great sorrow and a profound sense of loss.

Today, the very next day, is a Feast Day dedicated to the Holy name of Mary, the Mother of God. Our heavenly mother who surrendered completely to the will of God so that mankind could once again be reconciled to Him. She said yes. Yes to becoming His mother. Yes to becoming the New Ark of the Covenant, the Dwelling Place of the Lord. Yes to suffering the loss of her only child. Through her pain and suffering, through her grief and sorrow, she continues to point always toward Christ, our Holy Redeemer. He is the way and the truth and the light. We might not always understand the things of this world, but we must always trust in Him, in His promise and His divine plan. Yesterday marked a dark day in history. Today we see a light in the darkness, pointing the way. How is it that it took me 24 years to make this connection? Lord, forgive me for sometimes I can be as slow as molasses on a cold winter’s morning.

The true beauty of God is that He is everywhere and in all things. We just don’t always see that. It was on the first anniversary of our daughter’s passing that I realized it was the Feast Day of the Assumption, when Christ called His mother home. And she was there when my child slipped from the bonds of this existance. I am a realist. My baby is not in heaven. That is an honor reserved for Saints. The rest of us, once washed clean, are resting until the final day. Yet it gives me comfort to know His mother was at her side, pointing the way. Because of Covid, I was denied the right to kiss my child. But the Lord sent His mother to comfort me in my hour of need. Just as He does for each of us now and at the hour of our death. We are never alone, for God the Father, God the Son and The Holy Spirit surround us with love, and signs and wonder.

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While I served this pasta up as a Friday Supper, it would also make a great pasta side or pasta course in a larger production. Delicious is an understatement.

Penne All’Arrabiata
2 Shallots
3 Serrano Chilies
4 Garlic Cloves
3 tablespoons Olive Oil, divided
1 (16 oz) ca Diced Tomatoes
1 teaspoon Red Wine Vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
12 oz Penne Pasta
3 tablespoons Breadcrumbs
Fresh Oregano eaves, garnish
Feta Cheese, optional garnish

Trim ends from shallots, peel onions. Slice into thin rounds. Stem Serrano Peppers, dice into small pieces. Peel and mince the garlic.

In a large skillet heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, chilies and garlic; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes or so; stirring the entire time. Add the tomatoes with their liquid, cook over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes. Add vinegar to thicken the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper. Let simmer.

Meanwhile, in a large pot cook penne pasta according to package direction for al dente, about 11 minutes in boiling water. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2-cup of the pasta water.

Heat remaining olive oil over medium heat in a second skillet. Add breadcrumbs, and if desired Italian herbs. Fry until the breadcrumbs are crispy, about 2 minutes or so. Remove from heat.

Add pasta and reserved pasta water to the tomato sauce, toss to coat. Top with the breadcrumbs. If desired, drizzle with additional olive oil; garnish with Oregano. Serve Feta tableside as a finish to the pasta as desired.

This simple supper is delicious with warm garlic breadsticks and a simple Italian Salad.

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Alleluia, alleluia.
Your word, O Lord, is truth;
consecrate us in the truth.
Alleluia, alleluia.