Fr Lombardi Editorial: The Eucharist and Globalisation
The Eucharist & Globalisation
This was the theme of Pope Benedict XVI’s
reflections when he celebrated the Feast of Corpus Christi last week. He described
the Eucharist as “the dynamism that transforms reality in its cosmic, human and historical
dimensions”. It is the dynamism of Love that originates in the Trinitarian life of
God and reaches us through the heart of Christ. It is so strong that it overcomes
divisions, attracts us to enter into communion with the life of God, opens up our
individuality and frees us from self-centredness. The Eucharist is the concrete way
through which this Love spreads in the Church and in the world. It is the source that
constantly fuels the social presence of the Church and the responsible commitment
of Christians “in building a coherent, just and fraternal society” – especially in
this age of globalisation. We need to demonstrate true Love during this time of the
growing globalisation of humanity so that it is not lost “in the chaos of individualism
and injustice of everyone against everyone”. During the celebration, the Pope prayed
at length before the consecrated Host, which was then publicly displayed along the
streets of Rome. “Without illusions, without ideological utopias”, he said, “we walk
the streets of the world, carrying the Body of the Lord inside us…glimpsing the new
world where peace and justice reign and where our true homeland lies”. Human,
historical and cosmic dimensions truly interweave and merge in the Faith. Eucharistic
communion benefits everyone, it serves the good of the world, and allows everything
to find meaning and salvation in the end.