A Name Written on a Whiteboard
Updated: Sep 6
“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’”John 20:16
It is written in marker, large enough to read from the door. A first name, or a surname, or both. Sometimes a date. Sometimes nothing else.
The board is wiped clean again and again. Names appear and disappear with the rhythm of the place.
Jesus knew what a name can do. After he rose from the dead, Mary did not recognise him at first. Then he said her name. One word was enough. She knew she was not only a figure in a crowd. She was known.
A name on a whiteboard is useful. It tells staff who is in the room. It also makes a person one among many. The board cannot say who they love, what they fear, or how long they have been waiting.
You do not have to treat the name as only paperwork. You also do not have to pretend the board is not needed.
Speak the name when you enter. Let it be more than information.
At Mass we are not a list on a wall. We are called as people known by God. Christ does not meet a number. He meets a person. If you are the name on the board today, you are still more than the board. If you are the one walking in, say the name as if it belongs to someone who matters. Because it does.