Br. Louis Bethea, O.P., on the Reality of the Real Presence

"When we attend Mass, at the moment of consecration, as the host is lifted into the air by the priest, something extraordinary is happening. Although it may not be self-evident, God, through his presence in the Eucharist, has brought together in that very sanctuary the entire Kingdom of God. As Lumen Gentium elaborates, 'Celebrating the Eucharistic sacrifice therefore, we are most closely united to the Church in heaven' (Lumen Gentium, 50).  But not only are we united with the Church in heaven and offer our prayers for the needs of the living, the Sacrifice of the Mass 'is rightly offered according to apostolic tradition . . .  also for those who have died in Christ but are not wholly purified' (Council of Trent, DZ 1743). Thus, the Church Militant, Church Suffering, and Church Triumphant are united together in each and every sacrifice of the Mass."

In a recent commentary, Brother Louis Bethea, O.P., reflected on the Eucharist as really and truly the body, blood, soul, and divinity of Jesus.

To access Br. Linus' complete reflection, please visit:

Dominicana: When Heaven Meets Earth (12 NOV 20)