Sacrament of Eucharist

M M
Aug 31
3 min read

Updated: Oct 29

According to St Francis de Sales, the Eucharist is a Sacrament that unites us with Christ and each other, providing spiritual nourishment and fostering mutual charity. He described it as a "perpetual feast of divine grace" and a way to receive Jesus' Body and Blood, which strengthens the soul, making it "almost impossible ... to be poisoned by any kind of evil affection". He emphasised the importance of receiving Communion frequently and devoutly, not out of habit, but with the intention of glorifying God and becoming more like Him.

Spiritual nourishment: The Eucharist nourishes us spiritually and brings us closer to God, uniting us with Jesus in a way that is comparable to how food nourishes the body.
Unity with the Church: Receiving Communion joins us with the one Body of Christ, which is the Church.
Fostering charity: Because we partake in the same food, it promotes mutual charity and gentleness of heart toward one another, as we are all united with the same Lord.
Spiritual health: St Francis de Sales believed that frequently and devoutly receiving this "food of life" strengthens the soul's health, making it difficult to be overcome by the temptation to sin.
Avoiding spiritual death: He compared it to how the Tree of Life in paradise prevented corporal death; the Eucharist, as a "sacrament of life," helps us avoid spiritual death.
Devotion over habit: St Francis de Sales stressed that one should not receive the sacrament out of habit, but with the specific intention to glorify God, unite with Him, and gain the strength to serve Him.
Preparation: He recommended preparing the heart and mind for this encounter with Christ. Another way to prepare is to fast, when possible, for one hour prior to receiving the Sacrament.

Children's Sacramental Program

The introduction for our children into the Sacraments of the Church is both a spiritual and proud time for all involved. It is an introduction for children into the celebration and ceremonies when Christ touches their lives. It helps them understand goodness. As parents, it gives us an opportunity to explain and connect with our children on spiritual aspects that they will carry with them forever. No special gifts are required from us, our companionship and witness speaks volumes to our children. We pray that God’s Spirit will guide you, as parents in helping your children.

The order of the Sacraments for children after Baptism, begin with Confirmation, then First Reconciliation (Confession), followed with receiving First Holy Communion to complete their initiation into the Church. Therefore, the Children’s Sacramental Program is conducted in three stages. Please see below for dates for the current year. You can discuss any questions or concerns either through your child’s school or contact our Sacramental and Catechist Coordinator, DOROTHY FULTON on 02 4341 1073.