Last Monday through Wednesday, I attended the annual mandatory continuing education training for volunteer Chaplains who minister at Westville State Prison.

I was accompanied by one of my fellow Deacons, who volunteered to drive us to and from the prison for the Monday and Tuesday sessions.

As we were driving home on Tuesday afternoon, the truck we were in began to develop a sputtering and shaking motion, which prevented the car from exceeding 40-45 mph.

We were both tired from the training and worried while wondering if we would make without having the vehicle breakdown. My friend thought that the engine issue might get resolved by topping his gas tank with high-octane fuel. Thankfully, this did the trick. We both thought that there might have been some moisture in the gas line.

This experience reminded me that, when we face unexpected “sputters and stalls” in life, we should fuel ourselves up with special graces received in the Sacraments to help get past whatever may be slowing us down.

We are so fortunate to have this special help available in the form of the Holy Eucharist, Jesus’ loving gift to each of us. Nothing can help us more.

By: Deacon Tom Gryzbek