"Ite, missa est"
"This is my body... This is my blood" (Matthew 26:26-28)
I am a Eucharistic Minister. Although I am not currently serving in my present parish, I have dedicated many years of service as a Eucharistic Minister at my previous parish in New York. An important part of our responsibilities includes bringing the Eucharist to those who are unable to attend Mass in person, such as homebound parishioners, hospital patients, or residents of nursing homes. This ministry is truly a beautiful mission of both service and deep reverence, providing spiritual comfort and connection to those in need. So, as an “Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion.” I was sent. In retrospect, we are all sent.
After receiving Jesus, we sit in reverence and heartfelt thanksgiving upon this profound gift of Christ. We become wholly united with our Jesus, resting peacefully in the loving arms of God and being completely enveloped by the Holy Spirit’s gentle presence. He lives within us, and we, in turn, become His living tabernacle. Thus, at the conclusion of Mass, the celebrant dismisses the congregation with the words, "Ite, missa est!" which means, "Go, you are sent," reminding us of our mission to carry Christ into the world.
Whether you receive communion daily or only once a week, it is essential that we always remember to whom we belong and who truly resides within us at all times. With this important awareness firmly in mind, let us resolve to make thoughtful decisions and choose our words and actions carefully, ensuring they consistently reflect the presence of Christ who dwells within each one of us. Is this easy? No. I know. All He asks from us is to continually put Him first, and as we put this into daily practice, it gradually becomes a natural part of our lives.
Below is a prayer I pray after receiving Jesus.
PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Mary, most holy virgin and mother, look down upon me! I have now received your most dear Son. You conceived him in your immaculate womb; you gave birth to him, and nursed him, and enfolded him with most loving embraces. Humbly and with love I now present to you anew this Son of yours.
His very appearance brought you joy and filled you with all delight. I offer him to you, that you may hold him again in your arms and love him with all your heart. I do this as an act of worship of the most holy Trinity, and I offer him for your honor and glory, that through him my needs and those of the whole world may be fulfilled. I ask you, most dear Mother, to obtain for me forgiveness of all my sins, the grace of serving Jesus most faithfully from now on, and the gift of final perseverance, so that with you I may praise him forever. Amen.
May I always honor the Sacrament of Your Body and Blood, Lord Jesus. Inflame my heart with Your love, O Lord, and let my example inflame the hearts of others as well. (Franciscan daily companion)
Keep at it!
Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
