Friends,
This year, for Corpus Christi, we are given texts emphasizing the priesthood and our sharing in it.
The first reading tells us of Melchizedek, the priest-king of Jerusalem. He brings an offering of bread and wine, sharing it with Abraham and blessing him. The psalm also mentions Melchizedek, calling him priest and prince. He prefigures Christ, who offers the supreme sacrifice of his body and blood in the forms of bread and wine.
In the second reading, St Paul gives us an account of the institution of the Eucharist that he has received. The Gospel is the narrative of feeding the five thousand with a few loaves and fishes. In the Eucharist, the bread and wine transform through the same power of Jesus working through ordained ministers and others. Likewise, our reception of the Eucharist changes us through the power of the risen Christ to go forth and transform the world around us.
This week let us ponder on the Eucharist not only as Christ’s action in the past but also as a present and ever-new event in our daily lives and actions. Let us continue to pray for the peace of the world.
Joy and Peace.
