Note: 

Please take time to read the following statements on the  Discovery of Children’s Remains at former Kamloops Residential School by Archbishop Damphousse (link) and Cardinal Collins Archbishop of Toronto's (link)  and the frequently asked Questions document above. Let us keep our indigenous brothers and sisters in our prayers. 

Today we celebrate the solemnity of The Body and Blood of Christ.

It is clear in today’s gospel that Mark’s narration of Jesus’ gift of himself, is to be seen in light of the Passover feast which  Jesus brings to fulfillment as the unblemished lamb of sacrifice. 

We Catholic Christians celebrate the one and eternal sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the Mass for our eternal salvation. As Catholics, the Eucharist is the source and the summit of our faith. We believe it is the Glorified and Resurrected, Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus. It is what differentiates us from all others and yet it is also the glue that guides us to unity under one God.

The Eucharist  and the Sacred Heart of Jesus speak to us of the divine and human love of Jesus. God understands our needs, our weaknesses and our struggles. Furthermore, the Sacred Heart of Jesus provides us the opportunity to touch God through the Eucharist. This gift of touch goes beyond holding hands or a hug to the most intimate of expressions, to become one with Jesus in the reception of Holy Communion - Jesus now resides in us.  We then become a living tabernacle -  Jesus lives in and through us. So when you reach out to others it is Jesus' hands reaching out. When you give aid to others you are Jesus to those whom you assist.

When you put your hands together in prayer you are united with Christ.

Last Sunday and this Sunday children will be receiving their 1st Holy Communion.

Can you imagine their excitement? Can you imagine their sense of anticipation? Do you remember that suspense and hope? 

We are called to still experience the wonder of this most glorious sacrament. Let us welcome  Jesus into our very being and take him with us outside of Mass into our families and our community.

Let us continue to pray for each other and with each other as we share the message of God's Divine Mercy

Fr. Gerard Monaghan