“The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the Body of Christ?” The answers to these questions for 2000 years and until the end of the age, has always been yes.

 We venerate today this Sacrament in which God lies concealed and our Jesus cloaks His Face with the appearance of Bread and Wine. He is whole, entire, and perfect in each piece and in each drop.

 Throughout this week, the Catholic Church adores, worships and venerates its central creed – that Christ is alive and communicates with God’s People primarily in the Eucharist reserved here in our tabernacle and in the tabernacles around the world.

 This is what distinguishes us among Christians and from other religions – Jesus dwells here among us and we recognize, respect and sanctify the place where He dwells.

 My dear friends, the affects of this presence is significant for us as a parish and as individuals. Our reception of this sacrament strengthens us with grace enough to fight the battle against evil and temptation that we face every day.

 When we receive just one host, we have enough grace to convert our heart and to bring to communion other hearts who seek the Triune God.

 We can and should never abandon this most holy sacrament, because it is the key to our survival and our salvation.

 If we want to achieve communion with Christ we will need to receive the communion of Christ.

 Throughout the ages, people have suffered in order to have Jesus dwell among them. People even die a martyrs death to receive him just once. We are blessed not to suffer in this way yet for our faith, but we will if we do not begin to believe in this holy sacrament. This is truly a feast worthy of our adoration, worship and praise. Together we can thank him for this gift, this sacrifice, this Holy Communion.