So what is the ultimate goal of the reception of Holy Communion? Why does Jesus command us with the statement, “Do this in remembrance of me.”? It is so we might become what we consume. Without this awareness the focus and intention can be lost. Unfortunately, many Catholics see the reception and consumption as the goal. Yes, it is very good to properly receive Jesus, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. But it is the person who doesn’t believe He is present that harms them self by consuming unworthily. St. Paul said in his first letter to the Corinthians, “Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord.” (1Cor. 11:27) He goes on to explain the grave consequences of unworthy participation. The person who does not believe thinks it’s of no consequence because it’s just ordinary bread and wine just symbolizing Jesus. If this were true, there would be no consequences. But it is not true. Jesus is present and the failure to not acknowledge His presence is very disrespectful, even if done in ignorance. So this brings us back to the end goal. Are you becoming what you consume? Are you becoming just ordinary bread or are you becoming the child of God that Jesus Christ died for? You see, He is fully present whether one believes it or not. But His presence will only benefit us if we have the humble faith to believe. Yours in Christ our Lord, Fr. Sid