Thursday, March 5, 2009

ECCLESIA DE EUCHARISTIA

Where we read something is an important consideration in our receptivity to its message. This encyclical, ECCLESIA DE EUCHARISTIA or On the Eucharist in Its Relationship to the Church -- due to its subject -- needs to be read during Adoration.

It is a beautiful witness to all matters pertaining to Corpus Christi, the Body of Christ, and is best understood in the shadow of Him whom it is about. On the Eucharist can be read quickly, is best read slowly, should be read savouringly and hopefully by all communicating Catholic Christians. The late great Pope John Paul II wrote this as a letter of gratitude to Our Lord for the occasion of the 25th year of his Pontificate. He called the sacrament, "Gift and Mystery".

The Church draws her nourishment from Jesus through the Eucharist and wherever it is celebrated, heaven and earth are united. JPII urges all Christians to be distinguished above all by the "Art of Prayer" and one of the most perfect forms of prayer is silent adoration of Him who made all, gave all and continues to do so. The ultimate goal of every human being is union with God which is made possible through receiving this sacrament above all others.

A very accessible read, written for the average person. In a word, beautiful!

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