Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Introduction
· Hosts: Lania Spirito and Mary Lou Nemecek
· Topic: Eucharistic Revival
· The hosts discuss the concept of Eucharistic Revival and its significance in the Catholic Church.
Understanding Eucharistic Revival
· Eucharistic Revival is a topic gaining attention in Catholic circles.
· Many churchgoers may have heard about it in bulletins, publications, or from the pulpit.
· The hosts aim to clarify what Eucharistic Revival means and why it matters.
Exploring the Term “Revival”
· The hosts share their initial impressions of the term “Eucharistic Revival.”
· They emphasize that revival means a restoration to life, suggesting a reawakening of something already present but possibly forgotten or undervalued in the faith.
Conversion and the Eucharist
· The hosts discuss how true understanding and desire for the Eucharist come from a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.
· They reference Pope Francis’s use of the term “encounter” to describe this moment of conversion.
· Mention is made of statistics revealing that a significant number of Catholics view the Eucharist as only a symbol.
Significance of the Eucharist
· The hosts stress the importance of the Eucharist within the Catholic Church.
· A quote from St. Padre Pio highlights the centrality of the Eucharist in the Mass.
· They emphasize that the Eucharist is essential for the Church, and nothing makes sense without it.
Challenges in Modern Church Attendance
· The hosts compare church attendance in the United States and Europe.
· They recall a time when fewer people received communion and emphasize the importance of receiving in a state of grace.
· Changes in fasting practices over time are discussed.
Eucharist as a Who, Not an It
· The hosts reference the introduction of the Bishop’s document on Eucharistic Revival, which suggests that for many, the Eucharist has become an “it” rather than a “who.”
· They lament the idea that some people feel entitled to receive communion without understanding its significance.
Cultivating Conversion
· The hosts discuss the need to foster conversion as a prerequisite for understanding the Eucharist’s importance.
· They emphasize the importance of encountering Jesus personally and mention adoration as a means of deepening this relationship.
· The hosts agree that conversion is an ongoing process and a foundation for further spiritual growth.
Spread of the Eucharistic Message
· The hosts highlight the role of conversion in spreading the message of Eucharistic revival.
· They emphasize the importance of reaching people in their pre-converted state and the power of example, friendship, and family bonds in evangelization.
· Conversion should precede catechesis.
Revival as the Spirit of God
· The hosts explain that revival cannot be institutionalized; it is the work of the Holy Spirit.
· They emphasize that revival is about the Holy Spirit awakening hearts and minds, leading to transformation.
Biblical Roots of the Eucharist
· The hosts briefly touch on the Old Testament roots of the Eucharist, including the concepts of sacrifice, the story of Cain and Abel, and the priest-king Melchizedek.
· They mention the significance of bread and wine in covenantal relationships.
Conclusion
· The hosts tease future episodes where they will delve deeper into the biblical roots of the Eucharist and practical steps to foster Eucharistic Revival.
· They emphasize that understanding the Eucharist and fostering conversion are essential components of this important topic.
