Episode Summary: Day 189 - Worship of the Eucharist
Podcast: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Ascension
Guest: Father Mike Schmitz
Release Date: July 8, 2025
Episode: Day 189: Worship of the Eucharist
Introduction
In Day 189 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into the profound topic of the "Worship of the Eucharist." Drawing from paragraphs 1378 to 1383 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Fr. Schmitz explores the dual nature of the Eucharist as both a sacrifice and a sacred banquet, emphasizing the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and the implications of this belief for Catholic worship and devotion.
Understanding the Real Presence
Fr. Schmitz begins by reinforcing the foundational belief that Jesus Christ is "truly, really, and substantially present" in the Eucharist. He elucidates that this profound truth leads Catholics to worship the Eucharist itself, not merely as a symbolic act but as genuine adoration of Christ.
Quote (00:06): “This is truly God. And therefore there is worship of the Eucharist. We bow down before the Eucharist.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz
He emphasizes that recognizing the Eucharist as the true presence of Christ transforms ordinary worship into a sacred encounter with the divine.
Eucharist as Sacrifice and Paschal Banquet
Expanding on the multifaceted nature of the Eucharist, Fr. Schmitz explains that the Mass serves a dual purpose:
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Sacrificial Aspect: The Mass is the offering and sacrifice of the Son to the Father, empowered by the Holy Spirit. This sacrificial dimension is central to Catholic worship, mirroring Christ's own sacrifice on the Cross.
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Paschal Banquet: Simultaneously, the Mass is celebrated as a sacred banquet, reminiscent of the Passover meal Jesus shared with His disciples. This aspect emphasizes communion and fellowship with Christ.
Quote (38:15): “The Mass is at the same time and inseparably the sacrificial memorial in which the sacrifice of the cross is perpetuated, and the sacred banquet of communion with the Lord's body and blood.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz
Fr. Schmitz acknowledges that while both aspects are integral, there is often a tendency to emphasize one over the other. He underscores the importance of maintaining a balance, allowing the faithful to fully appreciate the richness of the Eucharistic celebration.
Personal Anecdotes and Reflections
To illustrate the significance of Eucharistic worship, Fr. Schmitz shares a personal story about a Catholic campground director who misunderstood the Catholic practice of Eucharistic adoration as idolatry.
Quote (12:34): “If what Catholics believe is not true, then what we do every day, what we do every Sunday... is as bad, if not worse, than the incident of the golden calf in the Book of Exodus.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz
This anecdote highlights the depth of commitment Catholics have towards the Eucharist and the potential misunderstandings that can arise from differing theological perspectives. It serves as a testament to the sincerity and fervor with which Catholics approach Eucharistic worship.
The Senses and the Eucharist
Fr. Schmitz delves into the sensory experience of the Eucharist, referencing St. Thomas Aquinas to clarify that while the Eucharist's presence cannot be perceived through the senses of sight, taste, or touch, it is affirmed through the sense of hearing and faith.
Quote (25:47): “In the sacrament, the true Body of Christ, and his true blood is something that cannot be apprehended by the senses, says St. Thomas, but only by faith...”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz
He emphasizes that faith bridges the gap between the invisible reality of Christ's presence and the tangible elements of bread and wine, urging believers to trust in God's truth over sensory perceptions.
Encouragement to Adore
Fr. Schmitz passionately encourages listeners to engage in Eucharistic adoration, sharing historical anecdotes such as the steadfast faith of St. John Vianney, the Cure of Ars. He recounts how St. John Vianney observed a farmer daily kneeling before the tabernacle, exemplifying simple yet profound devotion:
Quote (33:21): “I look at the good God and the good God looks at me.”
— Recounted by Fr. Mike Schmitz
This story underscores the reciprocal nature of worship—approaching Christ with love and receiving His grace in return.
The Altar: Symbol of Unity
The discussion progresses to the symbolism of the altar in the liturgy, representing both the altar of sacrifice and the table of the Lord. Fr. Schmitz cites St. Ambrose to highlight that the altar embodies the Body of Christ, reinforcing the unity of sacrifice and communion in the Eucharist.
Quote (45:12): “The altar is the altar of sacrifice, but also the altar is the table of the banquet.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz
He explains that this dual symbolism enriches the liturgical experience, allowing the faithful to partake in both the sacrificial offering and the joyful communion with Christ.
Call to Faith and Worship
Fr. Schmitz concludes by reiterating the importance of worshiping Christ in the Eucharist, urging listeners to embrace both aspects of the Mass—the sacrificial offering and the sacred banquet. He emphasizes that this worship is not only a personal encounter with God but also a vital contribution to the sanctification of the world.
Quote (58:05): “Let us not refuse the time to go to meet him in adoration, in contemplation, full of faith, and open to making amends for the serious offenses and crimes of the world.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz
He calls for a heartfelt and sincere engagement with the Eucharist, encouraging the faithful to cultivate a deep and abiding reverence for this sacred sacrament.
Conclusion
Day 189's episode serves as a comprehensive exploration of the Eucharist's role in Catholic worship. Father Mike Schmitz effectively bridges theological doctrine with personal devotion, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of why the Eucharist is central to Catholic identity and practice. By highlighting both the sacrificial and communal dimensions of the Eucharist, Fr. Schmitz enriches the listener's appreciation of this profound mystery, inviting them to a more intimate and transformative relationship with Christ.
Join us tomorrow for Day 190, where we will continue our journey through the Catechism, delving deeper into the mysteries of the Catholic faith.