Peter made a firm affirmation, “[R]ecieve the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2: 14.36-41) He was reminding us to be present.
Life is full of reminders: Next number please. What time are we meeting? We did that already. You saw this before. Did you catch the news report on that incident?
A ministerial parishioner asked, “I’m wondering why, since we’ll be at home until May 26, 2020, why a schedule is needed?” First of all, keeping a schedule in front of us reminds us of our connectedness. There is a felt absence of the assemblies’ role in the celebration of Eucharist. Vatican II stated there were four modes of Christ’s presence: “the assembly, the Word, the Ordained Presider, and the bread and wine consecrated.” In this presence we become that which we proclaim, “THE BODY and BLOOD of Christ Jesus.” (St Augustine)
The first reading is Peter baptizing the masses. Baptism is our entrance into the Church. It only happens once. Do I know the date of my Baptism that brought me into the Body of Christ?
Why is the gathering of the assembly listed first in the modes of Christ’s presence?
How does my presence contribute to the Eucharistic feast?