The Catechism and The Eucharist
Part I
During the months of November and December we will be on a spiritual journey sharing what the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches each of us about the Eucharist.
Article 3 The Sacrament of the Eucharist:
1322 The holy Eucharist completes Christian initiation. Those who have been raised to the dignity of the royal priesthood by Baptism and configured more deeply to Christ by Confirmation participate with the whole community in the Lord’s own sacrifice by means of the Eucharist.
1323 “At the Last Supper, on the night he was betrayed, our Savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood. He did this in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross throughout the ages until he should come again, and so entrust to his beloved Spouse, the Church, a memorial of his death and resurrection: a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a Paschal banquet ‘in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.’ ”
Deacon’s word….
As we watch candidates come into the Church, it is always a wonder to me that after Baptism and Confirmation, they receive the greatest single gift known to man, the Eucharist. The body, blood, soul, and divinity of Christ incarnate. This is not overlooked by them, and we who distribute the Sacrament are amazed by their reverence. Their longing for Christ is over, and they now can receive and become our brothers and sisters in Christ. They are priest, prophet, and king, they receive the Holy Spirit, and they become one in the body of Christ.
Amazing grace completely fills them beyond anything we can imagine. The journey may seem to be over. However, that is not the case. The journey into deep relationship with Christ is beginning and is a lifelong adventure. We can never rest on our laurels. We are a part of salvation history, and our growth in sanctity must continue. Throughout our lives we are either going towards God or away from Him – there is no middle ground. The Eucharist gives us strength to combat the demons and devils that tempt us to turn away.
Thank you, Jesus, for the gift of the Eucharist – the gift of yourself – the gift of love unmeasured and infinite.
