Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments to pay attention to your breathing. Take three deep breaths and remember that you are in the loving presence of God, who is with you as you continue your journey of growth and discovery.

Luke 22:19

Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me."

Shared meals-neighborhood picnics, family dinners, workplace lunches, and holiday feasts-all connect us to one another as community. In the Eucharist, we are united intimately with Jesus in remembering the Last Supper, which he celebrated with his disciples. In the Eucharistic meal, we find the ultimate connection, an intimate union with God and all the Church.

Do I allow Jesus, present in the Eucharist, to be one with me as fully as possible, or do I tend to "eat and run" ?

How can I help others celebrate the presence of God in the Eucharist?

(Pray to Jesus using these words or words of your own.)

Jesus, you feed me with your very being. Help me to enter each day ready to love and serve you and others.