Tag Archives: Eucharist

Receiving communion is given a very high priority: 16. The saving efficacy of the sacrifice is fully realized when the Lord’s body and blood are received in communion. The Eucharistic Sacrifice is intrinsically directed to the inward union of the … Continue reading →

Let’s begin with a clarification of Real Presence, and what it does not suggest about other ways in which Christ is present: 15. The sacramental re-presentation of Christ’s sacrifice, crowned by the resurrection, in the Mass involves a most special … Continue reading →

With some assistance from two doctors, one of the West and one of the East, we have a brief section today explores the role of the resurrection in the Eucharist: 14. Christ’s passover includes not only his passion and death, but also … Continue reading →

More on this notion of sacrifice: 13. By virtue of its close relationship to the sacrifice of Golgotha, the Eucharist is a sacrifice in the strict sense, and not only in a general way, as if it were simply a … Continue reading →

Yesterday we began to explore the strain of charity, love, and sanctification arising from the celebration of the Eucharist. Today Pope John Paul quickly links this back into the traditional notion of sacrifice: 12. This aspect of the universal charity … Continue reading →

Chapter One is titled “The Mystery of Faith.” In the next ten numbered sections, Pope John Paul II explores some of the Biblical foundations of the Eucharist, with particular attention to the notion of sacrifice. 11. “The Lord Jesus on … Continue reading →

Pope John Paul II offers three specific examples of post-conciliar growth as he completes his introduction: 10. The Magisterium’s commitment to proclaiming the Eucharistic mystery has been matched by interior growth within the Christian community. Certainly the liturgical reform inaugurated … Continue reading →

Popes of the past century have looked to the Eucharist, offering their insights and teachings to all Catholics. Trent provides the foundation for these recent expositions: 9. The Eucharist, as Christ’s saving presence in the community of the faithful and … Continue reading →

More personal reflections from Pope John Paul II: 8. When I think of the Eucharist, and look at my life as a priest, as a Bishop and as the Successor of Peter, I naturally recall the many times and places in which … Continue reading →

The annual Triduum communication with clergy of the world was an important part of Pope John Paul II’s ministry: 7. From the time I began my ministry as the Successor of Peter, I have always marked Holy Thursday, the day … Continue reading →

Pope John Paul II states his purpose, for his “Eucharistic amazement.” 6. I would like to rekindle this Eucharistic “amazement” by the present Encyclical Letter, in continuity with the Jubilee heritage which I have left to the Church in the … Continue reading →

Don’t be distracted by the Vatican translation. In essence, it’s the same proclamation MR 1 or 3: 5. “Mysterium fidei! – The Mystery of Faith!”. When the priest recites or chants these words, all present acclaim: “We announce your death, … Continue reading →

Pope John Paul II continues his exploration of the Paschal Mystery, with a reflection on the Passion of the Lord: 4. The hour of our redemption. Although deeply troubled, Jesus does not flee before his “hour”. “And what shall I … Continue reading →