It is at the heart of who we are as Catholics: the belief in the real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. In his Eucharist Encyclical Pope John Paul II affirms: “The Church draws her life from the Eucharist. This truth does not simply express a daily experience of faith, but recapitulates the heart of the mystery of the Church. In a variety of ways she joyfully experiences the constant fulfillment of the promise: ‘Lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age’ (Mt 28:20), but in the Holy Eucharist, through the changing of bread and wine into the body and blood of the Lord, she rejoices in this presence with unique intensity.”

John Paul puts it beautifully when he described how he felt about this practice: “It is pleasant to spend time with him, to lie close to his breast like the Beloved Disciple (cf. Jn 13:25) and to feel the infinite love present in his heart…How often, dear brother and sisters, have I experienced this, and drawn from it strength, consolation and support!” This practice can renew us and help us to live our faith.

During Adoration the Eucharist is placed on the altar in a monstrance with a Luna (glass enclosure) that holds the Blessed Sacrament and allows it to be visible. What do you do during Adoration? Genuflect on one knee as you enter the chapel. You may spend time in silent meditation or prayer.  You can silently just spend time talking to God as a friend asking for forgiveness, or for what you need. Pour out your heart to God.  You can read scripture, pray the Psalms, pray the Rosary, or say the Liturgy of the Hours.  Some recite the simple Jesus prayer: “Lord Jesus have mercy on me a sinner.” This prayer is repeated as you quiet your mind. The amount of time you spend is up to you. Come and just be.

Eucharistic Adoration is offered every Monday from 2:30-9:00 p.m. at St. John of the Cross in the Mary Chapel. The Divine Mercy Chaplet is prayed at 2:30 p.m. and Rosary at 8:45 p.m.