On the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, and as the Church continues her journey towards the International Eucharistic Congress 2028 (‘Eucharist28’), Archbishop Fisher OP has offered a powerful reflection on the gift that is at the heart of Catholic life: the Eucharist.
Reflecting on the Eucharist as the "source and summit of the Christian life," the Archbishop’s pastoral letter invites us to rediscover the extraordinary reality of Christ's presence among us.
In the Eucharist, Jesus does not simply give us an idea, a memory or a symbol. He gives us Himself – His love, His life and His truth.
The letter reminds us that our response to this gift is worship. Through the liturgy, prayer and Eucharistic adoration, we encounter the Lord with our whole being. It is in this context that the Archbishop reflects on the significance of kneeling: not as a gesture of fear or humiliation, but as an expression of awe, reverence and love before the God who gives Himself completely.
For those who truly recognise the presence of God cannot help but be transformed.
Throughout Scripture, those who encounter God are renewed and sent.
Isaiah is called to mission (Isaiah 6:8).
Peter is commissioned to become a fisher of men (Luke 5:10).
The disciples recognise Christ in the Breaking of the Bread and immediately set out to proclaim the Resurrection (Luke 24:30-35).
We too are summoned to this transformative feast.
The Eucharist draws us into communion with Christ so that we may become His witnesses in the world.
Worship and mission are inseparable.
We encounter Christ at the altar and carry His presence into our homes, workplaces, schools and communities.
As we continue preparing our hearts, minds, bodies and communities Eucharist28, Archbishop Fisher’s invitation is one for every Catholic: to deepen our participation in the Mass, to spend time in Eucharistic adoration, to give thanks after receiving Holy Communion, and to live more fully the mission that flows from the Eucharist.
The road to Eucharist28 is ultimately a journey of renewal: a call to encounter Christ more deeply, worship Him more faithfully and make Him known more boldly.
As the Archbishop writes:
"We kneel to recognise Him and then we rise to make Him known."
Read the full pastoral letter and join us in prayer, in worship, and on mission as we journey towards Eucharist28.