First Communion

It's First Eucharist Day today here at St. Mary's. It is really exciting and a wonderful celebration. A former pastor of mine used to say the theme song for today should be, That Magic Moment. But the children are delightful and so full of energy and enthusiasm. The simple concepts of bread, feeding, being loved and cared for, are all very close to their lives and hearts. When the scripture speaks about a child-like faith, it certainly had these moments in mind.

And for us as catholics, the Eucharist is the center of our entire faith. The Passion, Death, and Resurrection, of Jesus draws us into an intimate relationship with God. The Eucharist is both a meal and a sacrifice in which we remember the saving activity of God, and are nourished by the Body and Blood of Christ. This is a powerful sign and symbol of God's love for us.

For the children, they are continuing on their journey towards full communion in the Church. The idea that as they grow in age, that they also grow into the Church is a unique and important facet. I like comparing it to being able to sit at the big peoples table.

Hopefully the first communion of these children is not the last communion. When we talk about the lack of reverence for the Eucharist today, a large part of it is the lack of participation in the Liturgy and the community of faith. If we are not connected to the Church, it becomes sort of social hall for family events, ie weddings, funerals, and confirmations. But if the Eucharist begins to call us to a greater responsibility we might begin to understand our faith and the faith community as well.

This is a great day. I pray for these children and their families a lot. I would invite us all to do the same.