Eucharist Parent Material

PRAYER OF PEACE The Priest prays a prayer for peace, either quietly or aloud. He addresses this prayer to Jesus, asking that He “look not on our sins but on the faith of your Church”. Then the people of God, the community gathered in the church, are invited to offer each other a sign of peace. This is a sign of our unity in the name of Jesus Christ, as we are about to share in the “one bread and one cup.” THE BREAKING OF BREAD This is the time that the Priest breaks the Consecrated Host. He places one small particle into the chalice; which at this time contains the Blood of Christ. LAMB OF GOD The community begins either to sing or pray the Lamb of God. THE COMMUNION PROCESS ION We come forward to the Priest or Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus. In this action we are the visible members of Christ’s Body coming to be nourished by the Sacrament of His Body and Blood. RECEPT ION OF HOLY COMMUNION When we receive Holy Communion from the priest or minister it is most important that we reply clearly and distinctly with a strong “Amen”. This is our affirmation that we want to receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION Immediately after the Communion there is a time of reflection. THE COMMUNION RI TE The reception of the Eucharist, Holy Communion, is the culmination of our celebration of Mass. Holy Communion should always be received with great respect and reverence. When receiving Holy Communion in the hand, the correct way is to place one hand over the top of the other; forming them into a cross. This is, so to say, a throne upon which the Body of Christ is placed. If you receive the Precious Blood, great reverence must be used as you receive the cup from the Priest or Minister. IT IS IMPORTANT to help your child understand the necessity of reverently receiving the Sacrament of the Eucharist. After the reception of Holy Communion we kneel and give thanks for the great gift that has been received – the gift of Jesus Himself. ENCOURAGE your child to pray reverently in the period after returning to their seat. DISCUSS with your child this section in their resource booklet. 20