This homily was part of a Communal Penance Service at the Cathedral on November 29, 2022. Reflecting on the Parable of the Lost Son, we take time this Advent to “Come to our senses” and return to the Lord.
The sixth and final installment about the Eucharist examines the “Road to Emmaus” from the Gospel of Luke as a model for understanding how the Mass can powerfully impact our spiritual lives in the modern world.
Note: These are the readings for “Year C” in the Lectionary for Mass. On the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent, parishes may use the “Year A” readings at Masses that include members of the RCIA process.
For some people, going to Mass can seem like a “Catholic workout” of genuflect-stand-sit-kneel…repeat, repeat. Yet these postures all have a crucial part to play in our prayer as they form our faith. In this third of six presentations on the Eucharist, we discover how different postures enhance the depth and power of the sacraments.
In this second of six presentations we hear about some of the key elements that have been a part of the Mass from the very beginning of the Church, in particular the reading of Sacred Scripture and the elements of bread and wine that become the Body and Blood of Christ.
In this first of six presentations we explore how the Lord Jesus defines the Eucharist as his Body and Blood and commands his disciples to receive it. May we renew our commitment to Christ and draw near to the altar to receive this awesome sacrament.
We have some time to reflect on what we will do to enter into the spiritual powerhouse of Lent. This presentation offers some practical and classic concepts that can be applied to the unique circumstances of our lives. May we call upon Heaven for help as we prepare for this season of grace!