For many years now Catholics have been drifting away from regular mass attendance. People speculate on the reason for this and there is probably a combination of reasons. One possibility seems to be that some people don’t come to mass because they don’t believe any more on the “real presence” of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
For a long time people took faith for granted. We assumed that we all believed in God, Jesus Christ, and life after death. We spent our time talking about what we do as Catholics, not what we believe as Catholics. It is also harder to believe today because our society does not support Christian faith. In many instance it is opposed to what we do and challenges what we believe. This has been seen repeatedly during the Coronavirus Pandemic.
Faith is a gift from God, but it takes personal courage and conviction in order to believe. You have to take a risk. During this quarantine I hope you have had time to think about your faith and reflect upon this gift. I hope you have a longing and hunger for reception of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Our churches are beginning to open. Be attentive to this incredible gift. Take a hard look at Your faith, because you can’t take it for granted!
DeColores, Deacon Doug