Our late Holy Father, Pope Francis, often spoke about the importance of Sunday Mass. He emphasized the need for our active participation in the Mass, including, when appropriate, the reception of the Eucharist. He reminded us that we are not called to observe; we are called to participate in the mystery of the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ.
As reported in the publication, “The Catholic Herald”, Pope Francis reminded the faithful that taking part in the Eucharist “…conforms us in a unique way to Christ.” It gives us a foretaste of full communion with God in heaven, “…where with all the saints we will have unimaginable joy for the gift he gave us with the Eucharist.”
As we reflect on these words of Pope Francis, as Catholics we should have a great appreciation for the Mass and the Eucharist. The Church teaches that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. A brief period of time should be set aside for reflection after receiving the Eucharist. We are then urged to remain for the entire Mass and truly spend quality time with Our Lord. The final blessing sends us forth to truly live our faith and set a good example for others.
The Catholic publication, “Our Sunday Visitor”, as previously noted, also addressed the importance of the need to actively participate in the Mass. It stated,
“The Mass also gives you the opportunity to:
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- Seek forgiveness for your sins.
- Learn how God’s word impacts your life in the homily.
- Offer yourself to the Lord.
- Experience the miracle of bread and wine changing into the Body and Blood of Christ.
- Reach out to others with the Peace of Christ.
- Admit that you are not worthy, and then come forward to receive the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Christ.
- Receive a special blessing.
- Be commissioned to go out and make the world a better place.”
The publication also reminds us that, “When we come together at Mass to pray and worship God, we fulfill a deep need inside of us to be in communion with other people. … They help us to see that we are not alone. They remind us that we are all part of the Body of Christ.”As we reflect on the words of Pope Francis, and the sentiments expressed in “Our Sunday Visitor”, we are encouraged to participate in the Mass in a spirit of reverence, respect and thanksgiving. We are invited to recommit ourselves to making the Mass the heart of our day, not a small part of our day, each Sunday, as we truly and publicly proclaim and live our Catholic faith.