I apologize for the absence this last week, but I have been on a pilgrimage and vacation. My wife planned out a very beautiful pilgrimage (in honor of our son’s graduation) to southern Colorado and northern New Mexico where we visited numerous churches and shrines. We then headed to Arizona to see the Grand Canyon (at our son’s request) for the vacation portion of our week. I was pleasantly surprised that this also became part of the pilgrimage as the majestic beauty was simply captivating. The trip culminated with a visit to my brother’s house. We had not seen each other since my mom’s funeral last fall and this gave us a brief opportunity to catch up on the latest happenings in our families.
I will share more details and plenty of pictures in the days ahead. However, I did not want The Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ to pass by without sharing some thoughts of this beautiful sacrament. As I have mentioned to you on numerous occasions, please take the time to read the Bread of Life Discourse in John’s Gospel. It is in chapter 6 and is well worth spending time in prayer and reflection on this magnificent passage.
The Eucharist is the “source and summit” of our faith. If we fail to grasp this aspect of our faith it is difficult to grow in holiness. Since a high percentage of Catholics wander from the faith it is obvious that there is a need for greater catechesis. Do we believe that the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of our Lord, Jesus Christ? Can we exclaim as did Thomas the Apostle, “My Lord and My God!”? What do we need in our lives to grow deeper in our understanding and belief in this precious sacrament?
The stained glass window (pictured above) is in the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Santa Fe, New Mexico. In all of the color note the symbols of the Eucharist. Allow God’s grace and love to touch your heart this week. Seek the gift of faith in the Eucharist. “This is the Lamb of God Who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those who are called to the supper of the Lamb.”