The USCCB launched the National Eucharistic Revival on Corpus Christi Sunday, 2022. This movement was designed to draw Catholics into a deeper relationship with the Eucharistic Lord and is centered around four pillars: (1) Personal Encounter with Christ, (2) Reinvigorating Devotion, (3) Deepening Formation, and (4) Missionary Sending. However, a year and some change later, I’m finding a mixed response on the impact this revival is having among real, everyday Catholics
There are some great stories where the goals have clearly been met…
1st Pillar – Personal Encounter with Christ
“To be honest, I’ve struggled with the idea of ‘True Presence’ for a few years. This last year our parish has focused more on adoration and I can feel a small shift in my spirit.” – M.D., Edmond, OK
2nd Pillar – Reinvigorating Devotion
“Our parish has not really put an emphasis on the National Eucharistic Revival. The only person I have really heard talk about this is Bishop Barron. In my own personal experience, and from what I’ve learned since this Eucharistic Revival began in 2022 is that God is Truly Present (Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity) when the priest consecrates the host. This is something I don’t remember learning in my CCD classes or even heard a priest present a homily about. I am 52 years old and I just now truly believe in the Real Presence. I now go visit Him regularly in adoration.” – A.C., Garland, TX
3rd Pillar – Deepening Formation
“Even through wars, pandemics and world trials, we are consoled by of Jesus’ sure presence every Sunday at the altar through the Eucharist.” – J.M., Irving, TX
“I’ve learned that Jesus is, in some supernatural way, actually in the Eucharist! When we take the Eucharist, then we are really taking Jesus into our body.” – D.H., Duncanville TX
“Our parish is having regular talks on the Eucharist and it has definitely raised the awareness of its importance. What resonated with me so far was the explanation on the Epiclesis where the priest lays his hands on the host creating a shadow over it. Very symbolic of the Old and New Testament narrative of the Holy Spirit’s overshadowing that gives life. To me, that says everything about the Mass. This Sacrament not only gives life but It is life itself.” – M.S., Irving, TX
4th Pillar – Missionary Sending
“Schoenstatt Sister, Danielle Peters, reminded me that at communion I become a walking tabernacle. This statement has challenged me to consider how I live and interact with others as my body is a literal tabernacle for Christ and this has been my focus for this year of Eucharistic renewal.” – M.C., Garland, TX
“I am relishing this program! The Eucharist is what sets us apart from all other Christians. Jesus Christ is truly the Eucharist! We become His tabernacle as our Mother Mary was for nine months before His birth. I am blessed to be counted among the believing Catholics.” – M.G., Arlington, TX
And there are some of the faithful who appreciate the movement but, not much has changed for them regarding their belief and devotion…
” I think what I’ve gleaned from this, is just watching my husband go through RCIA right now and seeing his amazement in the Eucharist and how impactful it’s been to him so far. I can’t wait to see him receive the Eucharist this Easter for the first time. Just from trying to answer his questions about the Eucharist, has made me pause to reflect on my own RCIA journey ten years ago and what it felt like to receive the Eucharist for the first time. Your life is forever changed for the better, and as Catholics, we are truly blessed that we can receive Jesus like this so fully (and frequently!) into our lives.” – L.K., Fort Worth, TX
“This is a beautiful movement and can be a turning point in your relationship with Jesus. Learning how to apply consuming the Eucharist as well as the daily gospel to everyday life is a struggle for most…2024 brings great opportunity to grow in our faith.” – M.C. Austin, TX
“I’ve absolutely heard about the Eucharistic Revival. Our pastor, spoke about it in his homilies and our parish had a Eucharistic Procession around the neighborhood and fellowship afterwards. As a cradle Catholic, I have always believed the Eucharist is truly Jesus. It’s hard for me to think that Catholics would not believe. I feel so blessed that my dear mother converted to Catholicism, which brought me into the true faith Jesus left behind for us.” – C.S. Port Lavaca, TX
“Our parish has not provided any programming or emphasis on this movement. I recall one or two articles linked on our Facebook page but nothing more. I don’t feel that I’ve learned anything.” – C.Q., Richardson, TX
While I have experienced a range of impact this revival has had on people within my own circle – ministry work, fellow parishioners and family – one thing is clear: we all need Jesus in the Eucharist.
“Our world is hurting. We all need healing, yet many of us are separated from the Very Source of our strength. Jesus Christ invites us to return to the Source and Summit of our faith in the celebration of the Eucharist. The National Eucharistic Revival is a movement to restore understanding and devotion to this great mystery here in the United States by helping us renew our worship of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.”
– eucharisticrevival.org
We Would Love To Hear Your Stories Of Eucharistic Revival!
Email catholiclink@catholiccastmedia.com with your stories of how the National Eucharistic Revival is impacting you.
Photo by Matea Gregg on Unsplash
