Corpus Christi Homily 2024

On this most ancient feast, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (formerly called in Latin Corpus Christi), we are faced a few self-reflection questions.  The Eucharist - not just receiving Communion but the Eucharist itself - should be the very center of our lives, emphasis on should.  But is it?  Do we see what we are?  Do we become what we receive?  Do we make excuses for not coming to Mass and participating?  Do we allow the Eucharist to change us, or do we try to change the Eucharist to suit our own desires?  When we receive God in the Eucharist, we do become more like God?  

In this year of Eucharistic Revival, these are some additional reflections:

• Regularity: do we regularly come to Mass at a regular place or just fit it in sometime?
• One hour fast: do we keep it?
• Church clothes: does now I dress for Mass reflect the respect I have for God and the Eucharist?
• Scriptural preparation: do I read through the Sunday Gospel before Mass?
• Arriving early: do I allow myself time to prepare my heart and mind for worship or just make it in time for the opening song?
• Spiritual preparation: before Mass begins, do I call to mind things for which I'm grateful and things for which I need prayers?
• Full, conscious, and active participation: do I fully, consciously, and actively participate in Mass, am I praying my own private prayers, or am I a couch potato?

As we continue this year of Eucharistic Revival, consider making these actions habits:

• Genuflecting toward the tabernacle and making the Sign of the Cross when entering and leaving a church
• Bowing at Communion just before receiving Eucharist
• Making time to visit the Blessed Sacrament for private prayer, even if it's not exposed and displayed in the monstrance
• Celebrating weekday Mass
• Making the Sign of the Cross when passing by a Catholic church to acknowledge the presence of the Blessed Sacrament
• Making a holy hour
• Keeping respectful conversations and behaviors in daily life