Weekly Pastor's Corner

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

06/06/26-06/07/26

This weekend we celebrate Corpus Christi Sunday as it used to be called or Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ as it is now. On this day we announce and emphasize the truth of the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist and

teach and preach that Jesus Christ is present Body Soul and Divinity in the Eucharist that we receive at Mass. We believe that whether we receive the Blood from the Chalice or the Body from the paten, we accept the fullness of Jesus Christ in both. Here at St. John's, we continue to offer from the paten only as we are cautious about the transmission of germs possible in the sharing of the cup. Please be assured that in receiving from the paten only, the fullness of the presence of Christ is available to us. The Eucharist is not merely a symbol of what Jesus did for us 2000 years ago but is in fact a real symbol in that it is what it signifies. The power of the Holy Spirit comes over the gifts of bread and wine, and these are changed substantially into the Body and Blood of Christ which

becomes part of us as we consume it. It remains under the appearance of bread and wine but is of its substance the real Presence.

This truth comes directly from the mouth of Jesus as He says, "This is My Body, This is My Blood" at the Last Supper and the reality of the truth continues to be offered as ordained priests participate in the Consecration at each Mass. The Eucharist nourishes and strengthens the receiver, forgiving venial sins and bolstering the faith of the believer and his/her conviction of both being virtuous and serving in Christ's name. The Eucharist is then an outward sign of our communal commitment with and to God and so strengthens the Church for mission. This

Feast encourages us to not only be reverent before the altar but to be mindful of our encounter with holiness which occurs when we receive.

Thanks, and have great week!

God Bless,

 Fr. Joe