April 23rd

​Dear Friends,

One of the reasons that we consecrate more hosts than needed for a given Mass is to keep some in reserve to bring to those unable to attend Mass for health reasons. The reserved hosts reside in the tabernacle in church, with the red vigil candle nearby to remind us of Christ’s presence there. The tabernacle also offers a focal point for our prayer outside of Mass time. As the Church in the US moves into what the bishops are calling a “National Eucharistic Revival,” we will work to deepen our connection with Christ through the Eucharist and our appreciation for its reality as the Body and Blood, soul and divinity, of Jesus Christ Himself. (www.eucharisticrevival.org)


A more powerful way to meditate upon the presence of Christ in the Eucharist is through adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the monstrance. We had this opportunity twice during Lent. The children of our schools are learning about it and will experience it in May. As Saint John Paul II and others have often said, the Mass itself is not enough time to fully receive the gift of the Eucharist. That's why we need times of adoration.


We recently completed training for some additional parishioners to serve as Ministers of Care. These parishioners can bring communion to the homebound. Of course, I visit the homebound for the sacrament of anointing of the sick, confession and communion. But these lay ministers come on a more regular basis, so that those unable to attend Mass can still receive communion, the fruit of the Mass. In addition to bringing the sacrament, Ministers of Care also provide a sense of loving outreach, helping those unable to leave home to still feel connected to the parish. If you, or someone you know, is unable to attend Mass and would like more information about receiving communion at home, please contact me.


Forty days after rising from the dead, Jesus ascended into heaven. In doing so, His presence passed into the sacraments. As we meditate on the reality of Jesus’ resurrection during this Easter season, we hear stories from the Gospel of his appearances to the disciples. We do well to consider how He continues to “appear” to us in our own time: whether through His Word, through our relationships, in our prayer, through our service to the poor, or through the sacraments- especially the Eucharist.


May your week reflect the encounter with Christ
we experienced at Mass today!