We actually started the year off last night, not with any reading or writing, but by having Father Sebastian over for dinner. Father is the kind of priest one can approach with a question such as, "After consecration, when does the Real Presence cease to exist?", and you know you'll get the right answer. Father will be overseeing Gianna's First Holy Communion preparation this year. Last night he blessed her studies, pressed her with simple yet profound questions, and revealed beautiful mysteries to her young, innocent ears.....HIC EST ENIM CORPUS MEUM.....Body. Blood. Soul. Divinity. All at once under the aspects of bread and wine.
She was captivated. So were we. It's going to be a marvellous year.
7 comments:
May God bless you and your family as you begin this wonderful journey!
Kristen:
I am not sure of your location but can not help but wonder if you are in the line of fire/hurricane. I hope & pray that all is well. Joy and Blessings to you this school year!! Kelly
Now I have to ask. Does the Real Presence ever cease to exist in the Eucharist? I always thought that once the priest pronounced the words of Consecration, it was now Jesus, period. I didn't realize He ever left.
Thank you, Christine!
Kelly, fortunately we're not near any of the fires.
Anon, summarizing Father's explanation: The Church teaches that the Real Presence endures "as long as the Eucharistic species subsist" (cf. Catechism, no. 1377). Christ remains present under the appearances of bread and wine as long as the appearances of bread and wine remain. (In other words, the Real Presence ceases to exist in us approximately 15 minutes after we receive Him.)
Father mentioned for this reason St. Teresa of Avila desired to receive thicker hosts, so Jesus' Presence would remain in her longer. (Love that! :)
Have a wonderful school year. I remember first grade so well. I made my son a new pair of shorts out of United States "map" fabric. He loved them. Now he is in college and hides every time I bring out the picture. Time flies when your homeschooling.
Hi Kristen - Speaking of the school year....I remember you posted last year about your math curriculum change to Math-U-See. Would you be willing to share what you were using previously, why you switched and if you were happy with the Math-U-See program? Will you continue to use Math-U-See this year? Thanks!
Lucky duck! Just heard that Fr. Fromageout (sp?) has moved into Kansas City. But you can't beat Fr. Sebastian.
Post a Comment