A Revival that Begins at Home

Dear Friend,

In a recent essay the Boston College theologian, Hosffman Ospino, raises an important point about Eucharistic Revival among Catholics in the U.S.  He writes: “Together, Catholic faith communities, schools, and families need to invest in a new, and yet ancient, ministry: the ministry of encouraging and renewing the practice of breaking bread with others, at the table and without distractions, fully aware of each other’s presence.” He is talking about “experiencing the power of eating together and how that can help us appreciate what happens at the eucharistic celebration.”

Pondering these words as we prepare to celebrate the Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, I find myself musing about the convergence of two moments in U.S. history: the renewal of the liturgy in Catholic parishes in the mid-late 1960’s and the simultaneous burgeoning of the fast food industry. I can’t help but wonder how an intensifying cultural dynamic shaped by speed and convenience (and screens) has shaped the expectations we bring to Sunday Mass and thus how we experience it.  

In serving parish families preparing for first communion (and with children of his own), Ospino sees the pace of life for many today making it impossible for them to eat together. It’s hard to make the link between why we come together for meals - support, connection with each other, the experience of “presence” - and why we come together in the sacred meal of the Eucharist.  

In my own life with my friar brothers, we’ve set a priority for Wednesday and Sunday to make sure we have dinner together. We gather on other nights as well, yet always imperfectly balancing other responsibilities. As brother and pastor, I hear Ospino’s challenge: any movement toward Eucharistic revival must start in our homes.  

Gratefully,

Fr. Dan ofm, Pastor