Unlocking the Spiritual Wisdom of Ecclesia de Eucharistia
Today, I am honored to welcome Terry Modica as my special guest. We will discuss her latest book, a study guide on "Ecclesia de Eucharistia," the encyclical on the Church of the Eucharist written by Pope John Paul II. This book is particularly timely during this period of Eucharistic renewal.
Terry Modica's Background
Terry converted to Catholicism in 1977, drawn by the profound mystery of the Eucharist. She is the Founder and Director of Good News Ministries, author of the daily Good News Reflections, and a certified graduate of the Lay Pastoral Institute of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida. You can find more about her ministry at gnm.org, and her book, "My Soul Shall be Healed: A Study Guide on Ecclesia de Eucharistia," is also available there.
Terry’s study guide is designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the encyclical through a format that includes reading, sharing, and discussing each section. It is user-friendly and insightful, making the profound teachings of the encyclical accessible to all.
The Importance of a Personal Relationship with Christ
We often hear that many Catholics know about Christ but do not truly know Him. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is essential, and many fail to realize that this encounter occurs most profoundly during the Mass, where Jesus is present — Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity — in the Eucharist.
Apostles' Understanding of the Eucharist
Perhaps the Apostles did not fully comprehend the Real Presence on Holy Thursday. Their understanding evolved after the Resurrection and at Pentecost. Remember how they recognized Him in the breaking of the bread on the road to Emmaus? The early Church clearly understood the significance of the Eucharist.
Teachings of Pope John Paul II
Pope John Paul II wrote, “The Church was born of the Paschal Mystery.” Christ’s sufferings freed us from our sins and opened the gates of Heaven. However, as described in John Chapter 6, when Jesus spoke of eating His body and drinking His blood, many left Him, unable to grasp this profound mystery. This misunderstanding continues for many today.
St. Faustina's Mystical Experience
I encourage you to read St. Faustina’s Diary, entry 684. St. Faustina was mystically present in the Upper Room on Holy Thursday and witnessed Jesus' actions during the Last Supper. Before the Consecration, Jesus lifted His eyes to Heaven and engaged in a mysterious conversation with His Father. His eyes were like flames, His face radiant and white as snow, filled with majesty and longing. At the moment of Consecration, love was fully satiated—the sacrifice completed. The subsequent events of His Passion and Death were an external manifestation of the sacrifice whose essence was realized in the Cenacle.
The Essence of the Eucharist
The essence of the Eucharist was instituted on Holy Thursday. Humanity needed to see Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, but the spiritual key was in His giving of His Body and Blood. St. Faustina wished the whole world would come to know this unfathomable mercy!
Terry’s study guide offers an excellent means to delve into the encyclical on the Eucharist. Its straightforward format allows readers to gain a deeper appreciation of the Holy Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith.
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