“We believe he is truly present…”
by Bishop Lawrence Persico

Each time we receive Holy Communion, it’s an opportunity of grace for us to encounter the risen Lord in the Eucharist. That’s quite a statement, don’t you think? And yet, surprisingly, many Catholics do not fully understand or embrace this central facet of our faith. That’s why the bishops of the United States are inviting Catholics into a three-year effort to grow in their understanding of the church’s teaching on the Eucharist. The night before he died, Jesus gave us himself and promised to be with us always. Scripture records his words: “This is my body, this is my blood.” We, as a matter of faith, believe those words. We believe he is truly present in the Eucharist. I look forward to the opportunity for all of us to study, to worship, to witness and to grow in our faith through this initiative. I encourage you to take full advantage of this moment, with open minds and hearts. Come, Holy Spirit, Come!