Dear Parishioners of St. James:
Praised be Jesus Christ!
Holy Communion is the union of God with a soul in the state of grace either in heaven or on earth. Since we are not yet in heaven, Holy Communion on earth fills us with every heavenly blessing and grace (Catechism of the Catholic Church CCC, 1402). Reception of the Lord’s body and blood is a pledge of the life to come (CCC, 1402).
Even though we adore the same Lord Who reigns in heaven, the Real Presence of Jesus is veiled during our pilgrimage on earth (CCC, 1404). We seek God in faith and find Him in the Most Holy Eucharist. In Holy Mass we celebrate the Eucharist, “awaiting the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ” (Roman Missal, 126). It is God Himself we offer and receive in Holy Mass. There is no surer sign of hope in heaven than in the Most Holy Eucharist (CCC, 1405).
The more we come to Holy Mass and the more we receive Jesus worthily, the greater will be our glory in heaven where every tear will be wiped away and all that is true and holy will never end. “Every time this mystery is celebrated, the work of redemption is carried on and we break the one bread that provides the medicine for immortality, the antidote for death, and the food that makes us live forever in Jesus Christ” (CCC, 1405).
God bless you,
Fr. Geary
Saint James Catholic Church 