WEEKLY REFLECTION 

Jesus said to the crowd, "I am the living bread which has come from heaven; whoever eats of this bread will live forever.” (John 6:51)  

During every Holy Mass we can receive Holy Communion, of course if we are in a state of grace, and outside of Holy Mass the Eucharist ministers bring it to the sick at homes and hospitals. 

Communion for the sick is a sacrament that brings the eucharistic meal of the Church to those who are ill or elderly and cannot be present at the community's celebration. It is a sign of support and concern from the Christian community for its members who are suffering. When Communion is given to those who are in danger of death, it is called the ‘Viaticum.’

Viaticum is the sacrament of the dying. Viaticum is then celebrated in the same manner as Communion of the Sick, except that after giving Communion, the minister says:   

“May the Lord Jesus Christ protect you and lead you to eternal life. Amen. Let us pray: God of peace, you offer eternal healing to those who believe in you; you have refreshed your servant with food and drink from heaven: lead him (her) safely into the kingdom of light. We ask this through Christ our Lord.”

Here in our parish, many times, I am called to the dying with Holy Communion. When we pray together, I say that prayer, and the sick person receives in Holy Communion – Jesus our Lord, the Living Bread. 

Reflections courtesy of Evengeli.net.