While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take it; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many.” (Gospel for March 28, Mk 14:22-24)
At the Last Supper, Jesus gave us the gift of himself in the Eucharist, our essential spiritual food and drink, which gives us the life of Christ. We live at a time when many Catholics do not believe in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist — the body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ under the appearances of bread and wine. May we, brother Knights, never forget the true nature of the Eucharist nor lose our desire to receive Christ in the sacrament of the altar.
Challenge by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori:
This month, I challenge you to spend 10 additional minutes each Sunday before Mass preparing to receive the Eucharist and 10 minutes after Mass in thanksgiving for this gift. Second, I challenge you to assist your brother Knights in the Faith in Action Sacramental Gifts program to help your fellow parishioners understand the great gifts of the sacraments.
Questions for Reflection:
Do you examine your conscience before receiving holy Communion and go to confession first, if necessary? Do you show reverence for Christ in the Eucharist in such a way that you witness to the Real Presence to your family and fellow parishioners? During the consecration, are you attentive to the mystery taking place at the altar?