The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion, Sacrament of the Table, the Blessed Sacrament, or The Lord's Supper, and other names, is a Christian sacrament or ordinance.
In the Book of Genesis, we first see bread and wine described as sacrificial gifts to God. Gen.17:18 says “And King Melchizedek of Salem brought out bread and wine; He was the priest of God Most High.” On the eve of the first Passover, the Jews were instructed to eat lamb and unleavened bread. The Passover was a sign of God’s redemptive act of salvation for the Jewish people. They were freed from their slavery in Egypt.
Is it strange, then, that Jesus would use simple unleavened bread and wine as His greatest gift to us, the gift of Himself? At the Last Supper, just prior to offering His ultimate sacrifice to the Father for our salvation, Jesus took bread and wine and instituted the Holy Eucharist. Matthew, Mark, Luke and Paul all describe this unprecedented event in the life of Jesus. He offered this gift to His apostles and told them to do the same in remembrance of Him. This gift is given to us again and again in every Eucharistic celebration, Mass, or celebration of the Paschal Mystery. It is a gift that we are meant to take and share with others. We are one with Him and He with us.
When I see so many come to the table every Sunday to receive the Eucharist, I am incredulous just knowing that statistics estimate only 30% of Catholics believe that they are truly receiving Jesus, wholly and entirely, in this Sacrament. Admittedly, the way in which this occurs is a mystery, a mystery that calls forth our deepest faith. Belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist is one of the most basic tenants of the Catholic Faith.
It is very appropriate that on this solemn Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ, our children will receive Jesus for the first time. Our young children, in their pure candor and unquestioning faith, can open our eyes to that which we may have lost but we want to find anew. We ask God’s blessing on them and on their parents.
Later this month, our plans for the new church will be presented to the Kona Village Design Commission for approval. Next, they must go to Bishop Larry for his approval and then, to the county. Once these preapprovals are granted, I am hopeful that we will all work together to take us to the next step in the process. It has to be a parish endeavor.
Peace to each of you,
Fr. Lio
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