The Thomistic Institute 5 - Effects Of The Sacrament Of The Eucharist | Fr. Thomas Joseph White, OP
Apr 21, 2024
Fr. Thomas Joseph White, OP, discusses the effects of the sacrament of the Eucharist, exploring themes such as grace impartation, spiritual growth, unity within the Church, attaining glory, sustenance for eternal life, charity, forgiveness, and the dynamics of praying for others in the sacrifice of the Mass.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Eucharist Communicates Christ And Life
- The Eucharist communicates Christ himself so that consuming his divinized flesh imparts spiritual life and orients believers toward resurrection.
- Aquinas ties the sacrament's effect to Christ's substantial presence and to the flesh as instrument of divine life, strengthening and nourishing grace.
Three Symbolisms Explain Eucharist Effects
- Aquinas interprets three Eucharistic symbolisms: passion (sacrifice), food (nourishment), and unity (ecclesial communion).
- These symbolisms explain why the Eucharist both sanctifies individuals and builds the mystical body of the Church.
Use Communion Regularly For Spiritual Growth
- Use frequent communion as spiritual nourishment: it sustains habitual grace, increases fervor, restores from venial sin, and brings joy.
- Aquinas and the Fathers recommend approaching communion as regular opportunity to ascend spiritually and heal wounds.