I remember my First Communion and how special it was. I remember things like my dress and the party, but more importantly have continued to grow in my love for the Eucharist. This morning the entire school said a special prayer for our second graders who make their First Holy Communion tomorrow. Part of it said, "Protect, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, these young souls from the assaults of evil, strengthen their faith, increase their love and endow them with all the virtues that will make them worthy to receive Thee." This seems like a good prayer for every time we receive Communion. On Holy Thursday when Jesus established the Eucharist, my meditation from the book, In Conversation with God by Francis Fernandez, says, "Jesus will always remain really, truly and substantially present with us in the Blessed Eucharist. The Jesus of the Cenacle is the same Jesus who is in the Tabernacle. That night the disciples enjoyed the physical presence of Christ, when he gave himself to them and to all men. When we go to adoration, we too will find him again. He sees us and recognizes us. We can speak to him as the Apostle did and recount to him what concerns us and what gives us great joy; and we can thank him for being amongst us, and we can accompany him while recalling his generous self-giving. Jesus always awaits us in the tabernacle."
As we celebrate with our second graders and are blessed to be able to continue to receive the Sacrament on a regular basis, let's pray for them and each other so that we never take the Eucharist or its graces for granted.
This is the beginning of many celebrations that happen toward the end of the school year. It is been a blessing to be here and to celebrate. Thanks for helping our students finish strong and end the year on a positive note. I am looking forward to a successful and joyful last few weeks.
