Today is the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, the feast of the Body and blood of our Lord! The Eucharist is the treasure of the Church. It’s the real presence of our lord to the world. Jesus comes to us as food for our journey. Jesus wants to be a part of everything that we do. At the Lord’s Supper, Jesus took bread and wine, said a blessing and pronounced it as His body and Blood. Jesus shared this food with the chosen apostles and commanded that they do this in memory of Him. The Church has understood these words of Jesus to mean every day. Every day mass is celebrated somewhere in the world. Everyday Jesus is offered to the faithful, to those who believe and wish to receive Him in all faith! Jesus comes as food so we can have His presence strengthened in our soul. He comes so that we might be given the courage to proclaim Him as Lord and Savior in the midst of the suffering and challenges of life.

Some practical points for consideration: Every catholic is to receive the Eucharist every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation. Catholics are not to approach the Lord if they are in a state of Mortal Sin. If you are in the state of mortal sin, the sacrament of reconciliation must be celebrated before Holy Communion is received. In saying this one should never exclude others: who are not able to receive Holy Communion, from going to Mass. Everyone is encouraged to participate at the Lord’s Table but are reminded not to approach the Lord in Holy Communion until all mortal sin is confessed.

Some other practicing points: It’s very important to arrive early for Mass and to prepare oneself properly to participate at Mass. All are encouraged to recite the prayers at mass and to sing along as well. Please note, if you arrive after the gospel, please do not receive communion. Dress is also very important. Shorts, t-shirts and anything inappropriate is not suitable at Mass. We should all remember to dress appropriate as we attend Mass and meet our Lord.

Rev. Kevin Abels,
Pastor