Eucharist Lived

The Eucharist lived focuses on people acting as missionary disciples changed by sharing in the Eucharist, cooperating with the Holy Spirit in serving others so the wider community may also be changed by the Father’s gifts of love, mercy, and generosity.

The Eucharist is not only a mystery to be believed and celebrated but, also, a mystery to be lived. The Eucharist, Pope Francis has said, "transforms our life into a gift to God and to our brothers."

Through reception of the Eucharist in Holy Communion, we are united with Christ and are meant to grow more and more like him. That includes helping us grow in charity for others, since the Eucharist is the sign of the great love Jesus had for us, so much so that he gave up his life for us.

After being renewed and strengthened through the celebration of the Eucharist, we are sent forth with a mission: to bring God's love and mercy to others.

"Strengthened by the living Bread, we are called to bring hope to those who live in darkness and in despair," the pope has said.

How do we live the Eucharist?

Prayer is a good place to start. Reflect on the gifts that you have received from God and how he wants you to use them.

"Prayer and action must always be profoundly united," Pope Francis has said. "From a strong friendship with the Lord is born in us the capacity to live and carry forth the love of God, his mercy, and his tenderness toward others."

The corporal and spiritual works of mercy offer guidance when considering ways to serve the Lord, his church, and his people.

Corporal Works of Mercy

• Feed the Hungry
• Give Drink to the Thirsty
• Shelter the Homeless
• Clothe the Naked
• Visit the Sick
• Visit the Imprisoned
• Bury the Dead

Spiritual Works of Mercy

• Admonish the Sinner
• Instruct the Ignorant
• Counsel the Doubtful
• Comfort the Sorrowful
• Bearing Wrongs Patiently
• Forgive Injuries
• Pray for the Living and the Dead

Additional Resources

Diocese of Portland

Catholic Charities Maine Volunteer Opportunities
Parish Food Pantries & Soup Kitchens

Work of the Missions

CRS Rice Bowl (Lent)
Pontifical Mission Societies
Support the people of Ukraine

USCCB

Corporal Works of Mercy (USCCB website)
Spiritual Works of Mercy (USCCB website)

Other Organizations

Finding a Good Fit discerning ministry tool from Catholic Strengths and Engagement Community

A Plan to Make Missionary Disciples with Symbolon Growth Groups from Augustine Institute