By The Feast of Corpus Christi, the Body and Blood of Christ, reminds us of an essential teaching of our Catholic faith embodied in the documents of the Second Vatican Council and quoted in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The Eucharist is the “source and summit of the Christian life”. As we have just celebrated the Feast of Corpus Christi it is appropriate for us all to ponder anew whether this is true in our own daily faith journey.
As an ordained priest it is essential that this truly is my reality, the truth that guides every day, the essential focus for all that I do. It is also important that we pay attention to the specific wording of this teaching. It speaks of the Christian life and thus reminds us that the Eucharist is the “source and summit” or the “fount and the apex” of the life of every Christian. Thus for all of us it is the fount of all that we are in Christ and we return everything in thanksgiving to the Eucharist.
We heard these words many times. Let us continue this Year of Faith by striving to live them more fully each day. May we all live the truth these words express and allow the altar of thanksgiving that is the Eucharist to dwell at the very center of our lives.
Joseph Strickland
Bishop Joseph E. Strickland was named the fourth bishop of Tyler in September of 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to being named bishop, he served a number of roles in the diocese, including vicar general, judicial vicar, and pastor of the Cathedral parish. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1985. 