Msgr. Pope on Pondering Ministering to Our Bodies Vis-à-vis to Our Souls

"There is an interesting moment in John 6 that deserves both personal and ecclesial reflection. Jesus has just fed the multitudes by multiplying the loaves and fishes, a miraculous corporal work of mercy. Prior to this, of course, He had taught them at great length. Let’s just say that Jesus had them listen to a sermon before the food was distributed, just as used to be done at the local Catholic shelter or the gospel mission; the sermon preceded the soup! . . .

"In other words, Jesus admonishes them not to be concerned with food for the belly but also food for the soul, which He really wants to give us so that we make it to eternal life. In this case, the true bread He wants to give them is the Eucharist, but we can extend the notion and understand that God wants to give us spiritual graces even more than mere earthly bread."

In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the ministering to the needs of the body vis-à-vis the needs of the soul and on the importance of pondering where our priorities (as individuals and as a Church) should be.

To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:

Community in Mission: Pondering Questions Inspired by the Lord's Instruction (1 MAY 17)