In recognition of the central and essential nature of the Holy Eucharist in our lives, it is important that the faithful to return to Mass, to the Table of the Lord, when and where possible.
During the difficult months of pandemic, our pastors, parishes, and all the faithful have adapted in order to ensure the health and well-being of everyone in our communities. The safety precautions in place at our churches, such as capacity limits and rigorous cleaning protocols, have proven effective at facilitating essential public worship without undue risk of accelerating the pandemic.
While livestreamed Masses have been a means to help Catholics nourish their souls when they could not be present for Mass, we must remember that it cannot become the norm. God did not come to us virtually. He came to us in the flesh and continues to come to us in the Eucharist. As Catholics, unmediated contact with the Real Presence of Our Lord in offering this sacrifice to the Father is irreplaceable and essential.
We recall Christ’s own words when he foretold the gift of the Holy Eucharist: “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him” (John 6:54-56).