The Eucharist
Eucharist, is the third and continuing
sacrament of initiation. It is the reception of the actual Body and
Blood of Christ, instituted by Him before His crucifixion. He abides in us and
we in Him. It is often referred to as Communion since in its reception we are
in communion with Him and each other as members of the Body of Christ.
The Eucharist is the center of our
liturgical life as Church. In some rites Firs Communion is
administered with Baptism and Confirmation, evan for infants. In our culture
it is received normally during primary school years/
Preparation for First Eucharist
School age children.
Children are prepared for First Communion in Catholic School or through
Religious Education classes. St Julie parish is affiliated with Cardinal
Joseph Bernardin School. For public school children we have Religious
Education classes here at the parish.
Adults
Adults prepare for First Communion through the Rite of Christian Imitation for
Adults. (RCIA)
For additional information see links at
left.
Eucharist at Mass
The Eucharist, as instituted by Christ
on Holy Thursday is the center of our liturgy and an integral part of the
mass. We prepare by being in a state of Grace, having no serious
sin. The reading of scriptures and the homily of the presider further
prepares us as does the Eucharistic Prayers of the presider. We
acknowledge our unity with the presider by our great "Amen" at the
conclusion of the consecration and prayer.
At St Julie parish we all stand as the
members process to the center of church for the reception of the Eucharist
and remain standing until all have received.
As we approach the Bread minister
we bow in respect and after the minister proclaims "The Body of Christ",
we acknowledge our belief with "Amen". With our right hand cradled
in the left we receive the host and convey it to our mouth.
Likewise, as we approach the Cup
minister we bow in respect and after the minister proclaims "The Blood of
Christ", we acknowledge our belief with "Amen". We take the offered
and consume a sip of the Blood of Christ. We then return to our
seats.
When all have received we kneel or sit
in private prayer. Sometimes a hymn of meditation and reflection follows.
Other Forms of Eucharist
As stated above, at St Julie parish,
Eucharist is offered in the two species of Bread and Wine. Either or both
are complete. Some rites offer "intention" using a specially prepared
bread dipped in the wine and offered by the minister using a spoon. This
is not done in our rite and self administered intention is prohibited.
Eucharist for the Home Bound
Parishioners who are confined to their
homes due to either temporary or permanent illness may receive Communion.
Arrangement can be made to have a Minister of Care visit by appointment.
Family members and Catholic care givers are encouraged to participate in
the short reading, prayer and subsequent reception of the Body of Christ,
.
|
St Julie Billiart
Parish
