Cardinal Luis Tagle's homily at the Clossing Mass of the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress

Summary

In this inspiring homily, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Eucharistic conversion and its connection to missionary zeal. Drawing from the Gospel of John, the message encourages believers to view themselves and others as gifts, reflecting on Jesus's mission to give his flesh for the life of the world. The speech challenges the congregation to embrace gratitude, self-giving, and to actively share the gift of Jesus's presence with others, fostering a community of faith that is both evangelizing and mission-driven.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The Pope sends blessings and hopes for the renewal of the church and society.
• 🌐 The theme of the National Eucharistic Congress is based on the Gospel of St. John, emphasizing Jesus as a life-giving gift sent by the Father.
• 🎁 Jesus's mission is to be a gift to others, which is fulfilled through his self-giving in the Eucharist.
• 🤔 A lack of missionary zeal may be due to a weakening appreciation of gifts and self-giving.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 We should view ourselves and others as gifts, not just as objects or problems.
• 🍞 To receive Jesus means to believe in him and partake in his flesh and blood, as described in John 6.
• 🚶‍♂️ Many disciples left Jesus because they found his teachings difficult, questioning his mission and divine origin.
• 🗣️ Jesus asks if we too want to leave like the others, challenging us to stay committed to his presence.
• 💖 Those who choose to stay with Jesus will be sent on mission, embodying his presence and love for others.
• 🌟 A Eucharistic people are called to be missionary and evangelizing, sharing the gifts they have received from the Heavenly food.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the National Eucharistic Congress mentioned in the transcript?

The main theme of the National Eucharistic Congress is 'Conversion to the Eucharist', which is derived from the sixth chapter of the Gospel of St. John.

What does Pope Francis wish for the Congress?

Pope Francis wishes that the Congress may bear much fruit for the renewal of the church and society in the United States of America.

How is the Eucharist described in relation to Jesus' mission according to the transcript?

The Eucharist is described as a gift and the fulfillment of Jesus' mission, where Jesus gives his flesh and presence to others as the father wills.

What is the connection between Eucharistic conversion and missionary conversion as discussed in the script?

Eucharistic conversion and missionary conversion are linked through the idea of being sent and being a gift. Jesus is sent to be given by the father to others, and this self-giving is experienced in the Eucharist.

What does the speaker suggest might be causing a lack of missionary zeal?

The speaker suggests that a lack of missionary zeal might be partly due to a weakening in the appreciation of gifts and giftedness, where people focus only on achievement, success, and profit.

How does the speaker relate the concept of 'gift' to our perception of others and our mission?

The speaker relates the concept of 'gift' by asking if we see ourselves, others, our work, and society within the horizon of gift. If we do not see gifts in ourselves and others, we will not go on a mission.

What does the speaker mean when he asks if we see our spouses as gifts or problems?

The speaker is emphasizing the importance of viewing our spouses as gifts from God, which aligns with the theme of the Eucharist as a gift. If we do not see them as gifts, it implies a lack of mission and self-giving in the relationship.

According to the transcript, what is the significance of Jesus' invitation to 'eat his flesh and drink his blood'?

Jesus' invitation to 'eat his flesh and drink his blood' signifies the acceptance of him and the belief in his mission. It represents the ultimate gift of self and is a test of faith for his disciples.

What does the speaker suggest as a reason for people leaving Jesus?

The speaker suggests that people might leave Jesus due to a lack of understanding or acceptance of his most precious gift of eternal life, which is symbolized by the Eucharist.

How does the speaker encourage the congregation to respond to Jesus' question, 'Do you also want to leave me?'

The speaker encourages the congregation to respond like Peter, affirming their belief and conviction that Jesus has the words of eternal life, and expressing their desire to stay with Jesus and not live far from his presence.

What is the final message the speaker conveys about sharing the gift of Jesus?

The final message is that those who choose to stay with Jesus will be sent by him to share the gift of his presence and love with others. It emphasizes that we should not keep Jesus to ourselves but share the gift we have received.