The Most Holy Body And Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)

Dear Parishioners,

     We just finished the Easter season. During that time of year, we celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation.   Many people receive the Eucharist for the first time.  It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm of someone who has converted to the Catholic faith when they receive the Body and Blood of the Lord.  Also, it is great to see the awe on the second graders’ faces when they receive First Communion.

     When I talk to parents about their children’s first communion I mention how little children often reach for the host as they come up with their parents in the communion line.  Some even cry when they cannot receive.  There is a deep hunger to participate with everyone else. 

     On this Feast of Corpus Christi, it is good to remember how we looked forward to receiving the Eucharist at First Communion.  Most people recall that moment even if they do not remember other things in childhood.  The question is, why do we seem to lose the awe and that enthusiasm?

     Perhaps it is because we lose a sense of the supernatural as we move along in life.  The spiritual world is forgotten as the material world takes over our life.  We are driven by desires for things that are measurable and tangible.  We forget there is a whole other side of life, the side that will last for all eternity.

     In John 6:58 Jesus said, “The one who feeds on this bread will live forever.” The Eucharist is food for our journey here on Earth and food for our supernatural journey to the next life.  Jesus is truly present.  Participation in the Eucharist is how we can tangibly touch him on this earth. What a great gift this is! 

Blessings,

Fr. Mark

P.S.  Thanks to all of you who sent greetings on my birthday.  I appreciated being remembered.