Year of the Eucharist “celebration” planned for October

by Ellen Nester

DCCW Organization

Committee Chairperson

Since October 10, 2004, when Pope John Paul II called for the Year of the Eucharist, Catholics world wide have focused on the importance of Eucharist. It has been a year when we have strived to honor God's gift of the Eucharist by receiving it more faithfully, and reflecting more deeply on its meaning in our lives and the life of the church. Pope John Paul II identified three hopeful outcomes of a year dedicated to the Eucharist: 1) growth in the art of prayer; 2) elevation of our standard of Christian living; and 3) partici-pation in the new evangelization.

In an attempt to create a Eucharistic heart in the Diocese of New Ulm, Bishop John C. Nienstedt has designated Sunday, October 9, as the Year of the Eucharist Celebration in the Diocese of New Ulm. This event is for the entire family with special recognition for students receiving First Holy Communion and Confirmation. It will be held at the Church of St. Catherine in Redwood Falls. The celebration is being organized by the diocesan Council of Catholic Women and the diocesan Office of Worship. The celebration theme is "One Body, One Spirit in Christ" - reminding us that the Eucharist ties every parish, Area Faith Community, and cluster together with the diocesan and universal church. The day will begin at 3:00 p.m. as the Blessed Sacrament is placed on the altar for adoration. There will be time for readings, silent adoration, group prayer, music and a homily presented by Bishop Nienstedt. A special invitation will be sent to children ages 4-8 to take part in activities related to the Eucharist while parents are praying. Afterwards all will be invited to take part in a Procession of the Blessed Sacrament and recitation of the Rosary. Everyone is invited to stay for a light meal at 5:00 p.m.

For further information on the Year of Eucharist Celebration contact Ann Przybilla, Director of the Office of Worship, 1400 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073; (507) 359-2966; email: aprzybilla@dnu.org.