“At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his Passion, he took bread and, giving thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples saying: “Take this, all of you, and eat of it, for this is my body, which will be given up for you.” In a similar way, when supper was ended, he took the chalice and once more giving thanks, he gave it to his disciples, saying: “Take this, all of you, and drink from it, for this is the chalice of my blood, the blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins.  Do this in memory of me.” (from Eucharistic Prayer II)

At the time of his death, Jesus established a way for his disciples to commemorate and connect to the gift of redemption that he gave to all mankind. We call this commemoration, Eucharist, a Greek word meaning to give thanks. He established this Eucharist during the last meal he ate with his disciples before his death. Deeply connected to the Jewish celebration of Passover, Jesus changed the focus. No longer had God only saved the Hebrew people from the slavery of Egypt; but now, he has saved all people from the power of death and sin. From that time, Christians have celebrated this event not just by a symbolic remembrance, but with the real presence of Jesus’ substance and life. This is the summit and source of life in our church. Why can we say this? Because Jesus said so at the last supper.  We must always hunger for this Eucharist and never forget the power of this gift. 

On December 8th, our diocese began the celebration of a Year of the Eucharist. It is a time when the parishes of our diocese will focus on the Eucharist. The first element of this focus is to offer programs and opportunities to understand more fully the mystery of the Eucharist. Secondly it is to offer opportunities for devotion to the Eucharist. In our parish we have offered perpetual adoration for over 25 years. One of our goals is to recommit and build up adoration among our parishioners. The third element is the use of prayer and Eucharist to strengthen our families, our parish, and the Church. Living in troubled times, we can remind ourselves of the healing power of the Eucharist in order to bring Christ’s peace to the world. My hope is that this coming year will be a time of renewal among our parishioners and that this Eucharist may be the power to heal our hearts and draw us all closer to God.   

A further note.  (The bishop has received permission to promote a special plenary indulgence during this year for all who receive sacramental Confession, Holy Communion, and who offer prayer for the intention of the pope; who attend a liturgical service celebrating our jubilee year in either the Cathedral in Springfield or the Old Cathedral in Alton. Details explaining the requirements and meaning of this indulgence can be found in the December 11th edition of the Catholic Times (see direct link to the article below).