photo of our monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament

Recently, Cardinal George of the Archdiocese of Chicago has stated,
“Full and actual participation in the Eucharist is the
best way of living God’s life.
In the parishes, the Eucharist is to be both
celebrated and adored.”

Discover an Oasis of Peace in South Naperville:

Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration at St. Elizabeth Seton!

Come visit our 24-hour adoration chapel at 2220 S. Lisson Road, Corner of 87th and Lisson Road.  Chapel is located in the Parish Center at the southwest corner of the parking lot.

Public access 7 am-7 pm daily; other hours open to regular adorers via keycode.

Visit our website or call to sign up for your own special hour with Jesus!

Email your questions, concerns or requests to sign up for your own regular weekly hour with Jesus:  chapel@sesnaperville.org

The first part of the theme invites us to consider our faith in the Eucharist. Studies show that not all Catholics believe in the real presence of Christ in Communion. Some consider it to only be a symbol and not really the Lord. A core element of our Catholic faith is rooted in the belief that at Mass the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ. The simple elements of human food become the sacred presence of the Lord Himself. Once Mass is done, these elements remain Christ until they are consumed. This is why we genuflect before the tabernacle whenever we enter or leave the church. Our two sanctuary candles burn 24/7 to remind us that God is always present in the church building.

I encourage you to spend some time reflecting of your belief in the Eucharist. How firmly do you believe? Perhaps you may need to strengthen your faith. I suggest that you might read through the Gospels, especially John, and listen to the messages that Christ left for us. You might also try to give special focus to the parts of the Mass, especially the Eucharistic Prayer. Listen to the priest pray for the coming of the Spirit on the bread and wine. Hear him repeat the words of Jesus from the Last Supper. When you say “Amen” after you receive Communion, remember what this means. This is you saying “yes” that you believe this is Christ. Make sure to spend quiet time giving thanks to God for giving us the gifts of His Son.

We grow as believers. Our beliefs develop as we live with them and let them have significant roles in our lives. Our belief in the Eucharist began when we were instructed for First Communion. Like anything else significant in our lives, it needs to grow and develop as we go through life.

In the Love of Christ,

Fr. Tom Paul