Saint Ignatius of Antioch

The Church celebrates the memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr. Saint Ignatius offers these words, "I am God's wheat and shall be ground by the teeth of the wild beasts so that I may become Christ's pure bread." The commentator picks up on this quote as they write, "Only one wine and one bread filled Saint Ignatius with joy; the living bread and the cup of the new covenant, offered on the altar of the cross. This faithful bishop pleaded with his people to draw from this true worship the oneness of mind and heart which identifies disciples of Christ" (Magnificat, 254). The Mass is our central act of worship! The Eucharist means "Thanksgiving." Participation at Mass is the number one way that Catholics can live the Year of Faith. Bishop David Ricken of Green Bay, WI, chairman of the Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offers the "10 Ways Catholics Can Live the Year of Faith." As was mentioned, "Participate in Mass" is number one and here is the explanation for that participation: "The year is meant to promote the personal encounter with Jesus. This occurs most immediately in the Eucharist. Regular Mass attendance strengthens one's faith through Scriptures, the Creed, other prayers, sacred music, the homily, receiving Communion and being part of a faith community." The saints found great joy in receiving the one bread and the one cup because they were truly receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. The same is true for us as Catholics. We believe in the Real Presence and we believe that we receive the Body and Blood of Christ each time we receive Holy Communion. That same joy can be ours! May this memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch renew us in receiving the Body and Blood of Christ! May this Year of Faith lead us to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and renewed attendance and participation in the Mass. God Bless You on Your Journey!!!