If we really understood the Mass, we would die of joy (St. John Vianney).
The Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life. Many of us do not fully understand the grace and blessings we receive by devoutly participating in the Holy Eucharist. Here is compilation of quotations and visions from various Saints and Doctors of the Church, that will summarise the meaning and importance of the Holy Eucharist.
It is our greatest consolation at the hour of our death
Pope Benedict XV once said that a Holy Mass offered by a person when he/she is alive has greater value than mass celebrated for their soul after their death. Every mass we attend in our life here, will go with us to judgement and will plead pardon for our sins. At the hour of death, it is these Holy Masses we have heard devoutly that will give us our greatest consolation.
The Mass is the most perfect form of prayer and thanks giving
Once, St. Teresa of Avila was overwhelmed with God’s Goodness and asked Our Lord “How can I thank you?” Our Lord replied, “ATTEND ONE MASS.”
The Mass is the holiest act of a Christian life. It is a perfect opportunity for us to glorify God for everything He has done for us in our lives. It is a perfect place for us to ask God to heal our soul, body and mind. It is a perfect time to surrender our life into His hands, offer all that we are, all that we have and all that we want.
St. Padre Pio says, “Every Holy Mass, heard with devotion, produces in our souls marvellous effects, abundant spiritual and material graces which we ourselves, do not know.”
The Mass is the source of spiritual strength
The Lord speaks to us during the Mass through his word. Remember that the Bible says that the Word of God does not return without bearing fruit. If we are attentive, some words will speak to us from the readings and the homily, will remain in us. We should try to recall, all day long, those Words that left an impression on us. Sometimes it may be two verses, other times the reading of the entire Gospel, or perhaps only one word savour them for the rest of the day, and it will then become part of us, because the Word of God will strengthen and transform us.
The Mass is divine
Saint John Chrysostom says “When Mass is being celebrated, the sanctuary is filled with countless angels who adore the divine victim immolated on the altar.” Did you know that our Guardian Angel carries our offerings and petitions before the Altar of the Lord during the Holy Mass?
Mass is the main source to renew our faith
St.Padre Pio says “Renew your faith by attending Holy Mass. Keep your mind focused on the mystery that is unfolding before your eyes. In your mind’s eye transport yourself to Calvary and meditate on the Victim who offers Himself to Divine Justice, paying the price of your redemption.
Holy Mass is Divine. We usually arrive almost when the celebration is about to commence, and participate as if it is an ordinary event, without any spiritual preparation. Mass is the greatest of all the miracles. We live the moment when the Most High God gives His greatest gift, and we should learn to appreciate.
Smitha Ryan