Celebrating the Eucharist

“The Eucharist, the sacrament of our salvation accomplished by Christ on the cross, is also a sacrifice of praise in thanksgiving for the work of creation. In the Eucharistic sacrifice the whole of creation loved by God is presented to the Father through the death and the Resurrection of Christ. Through Christ the Church can offer the sacrifice of praise in thanksgiving for all that God has made good, beautiful, and just in creation and in humanity.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1359)

“The Eucharist is ‘the source and summit of the Christian life.’ (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1324)

“At the Last Supper, on the night he was betrayed, our Savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood. This he did in order … to entrust to his beloved Spouse, the Church, a memorial of his death and resurrection: a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a Paschal banquet ‘in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.’” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1323)

The purpose of the Mass is to give thanks and praise to God for the greatest gift of all, the gift of our salvation through the death of God’s son on the cross. The Mass is central to the life of the Catholic Church. The Mass has two parts of equal importance:

1. The Liturgy of the Word which consists of readings, the homily and the prayer of the faithful.
2. The Liturgy of the Eucharist in which we do as Christ commanded us at the Last Supper.

At Mass we are nourished by the word of God and by the Body and Blood of Christ. It is the obligation of faithful Catholics to “keep holy the Lord’s day” through participation at the Celebration of Mass. Only baptised Catholics who have prepared themselves are invited to receive Holy Communion. Holy Communion is a sign of the oneness of faith and unity within the community, while also being the nourishment of Christ’s body for our journey through life. Getting together on Sundays is an occasion to greet one another and to celebrate the joy of Christ together. Making oneself available for socialising before and after Mass will enhance the celebration of God’s love. Mass is also celebrated during the week. Please check the home page section of our website and/or newsletter for more details.

First Holy Communion for Children

The Sacrament of First Holy Communion is celebrated here at St Luke’s for Children in Year 3 or above who have been baptised and have celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation. First Holy Communion dates are organised at the beginning of each year in collaboration with St Luke’s Primary School. Please Contact the Parish Office about our Sacramental Program.

Holy Communion for the Sick

If you or one of your family is sick and are unable to attend Mass, one of the Acolytes or Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion can bring you communion. Sickness is not to be a barrier to receiving Communion. It should in fact be a greater reason for receiving the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Please phone or email the Parish Office and they will make the necessary arrangements. Please Call the Parish Office for more details or to arrange a visit from our Team.

Here are some answers to common questions about Holy Communion that will help you better understand this significant act of faith. Please click on the link HERE.