St. Francis de Sales Parish

Growing in Faith

Eucharist

The Holy Eucharist is the Source and Summit of the Christian Life. In Holy Communion we receive the Body and Blood of Christ Himself. As Catholics we believe that Jesus is truly present Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity in the species of bread and wine that have become His Body, His Blood. To receive Him worthily we need to be in a state of grace, to have confessed all mortal sin that has cut us off from Him, or if we are not able to make it to confession as quickly as is needed to have at least made a perfect act of contrition with the firm intention to go to confession as soon as possible.

This linked Adobe file gives an excellent explanation of what we believe and profess.

The following prayer before Communion can help us to enter more fully into this great Mystery of God's love:

Father in heaven, you have made us for yourself; our hearts are restless until they rest in you. Fulfill this longing through Jesus, the bread of life, so that we may witness to him who alone satisfies the hungers of the human family. By the power of your Spirit lead us to the heavenly table where we may feast on the vision of your glory for ever and ever. Amen.

A Prayer of Thanksgiving after receiving Communion:

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, inebriate me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O good Jesus, hear me.
Within Thy wounds hide me.
Suffer me not to be separated from Thee.
From the malignant enemy, defend me.
In the hour of my death, call me.
And bid me come to Thee.
That with Thy saints I may praise Thee.

Videos

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-05-10 Part 1

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-05-10 Part 2

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-05-10 Part 3

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-05-10 Part 4

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-05-10 Part 5

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-05-10 Part 6

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-12-10 Part 1

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-12-10 Part 2

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-12-10 Part 3

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-12-10 Part 4

1st Reconciliation Meeting 10-19-10 Part 1