Body of Christ
This chapter focuses on the words the priest says as he distributes the host and the chalice. He says; “The Body of Christ” and “The Blood of Christ”. We also look at how Christ is present in the bread and the wine. We reflect on the transformation that takes place, during the Consecration of the bread and wine at Mass.
We remember that during Easter and the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, he brought new life – and that he gives himself to us, his disciples today, under the appearance of bread and wine. We think about how Christ is present in the bread and wine.
Keywords in this chapter are: Consecration, Body of Christ, Blessed Sacrament, Tabernacle, Sanctuary Light, Good Friday, Easter Sunday
Questions you might like to ask your child:
Q. What happened on Good Friday and Easter Sunday?
A. Good Friday is the day that Jesus dies on the cross. Easter Sunday is the day that Jesus rose again from the dead.
Q. Who does Jesus appear to after he has risen from the dead?
A. Mary from Magdala and the two friends on their way to Emmaus.
Q. What happens at the Consecration during Mass?
A. The Priest says the words spoken by Jesus and lifts the host. The chalice and the bread and wine are changed into the body and blood of Jesus.
Q. What should we say when we receive Holy Communion?
A. Amen
Q. Why might we recognise Jesus when we hear the words he said, spoken by the priest, at Mass and when we receive Holy Communion?
A. Your child may be able to make a link here with the friends going to Emmaus, who recognised him in the sharing of a meal with Jesus. Or they may link to the Last Supper, as the words of the priest echoes the words said by Jesus asking us to do this to remember him.
Q. Why might we try to be quiet after receiving communion and what might we want to say to Jesus?
A. Answers could include that we might try and be quiet to take in that special moment. We might also want to give space for God to speak in our hearts in the silence. A quiet moment can also help us feel peaceful. We might want to thank Jesus for giving us his life.
- Jobs for the week
- Complete the online quiz
- Talk about how they will take the host and the wine. Reassure them they will get chance to practise before the big day.
- Practise all the prayers in the back of the book.
