As you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and allow yourself to grow still. Let go of any distracting thoughts. Take several slow, deep breaths. Become aware of God’s unconditional love for you.

1 Corinthians 11:25–26

In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes.

When we gather to celebrate the Eucharist, we proclaim not only the death of the Lord but our belief that he will come again. Receiving the Body and Blood of Christ over and over throughout our lives strengthens us to wait in joyful hope for his coming. This hope is foundational to our lives as disciples. We come to Mass with particular attitudes. We come, aware of our need to be nourished by the Bread of Life. We come, aware of our need to be transformed along with the bread and wine. We come, aware that we are one with the community who gathers. When we remember in whose name we gather to celebrate Eucharist, our participation becomes a living act of worship.

What will I do this week to prepare myself interiorly to celebrate the Eucharist?

How does living in joyful hope for Christ’s coming show itself in my daily life?

(Speak to Jesus, using these words or a prayer of your own.)

Jesus, Bread of Life, you nourish us with your own Body and Blood. As I wait in joyful hope for the coming of your Kingdom, keep me always hungering for more.

Amen.