Why is the Precious Blood not distributed at every Holy Mass?
Contribution: Suzanna Joseph
During holy mass the faithful often wonder, ‘Why Fathers offer just the body of Christ?’ Although they themselves drink the blood of Christ.
Holy Chalice is offered whenever there are fewer communicants in a Holy Mass, whereas with a greater number of participants only host is offered, considering the principles of personal hygiene. Alternatively, the host may be shared after being dipped in the Holy Chalice.
There are several biblical references that support the omission of the Holy Chalice during Mass. The apostles refer to the Eucharist as breaking of the bread in the Book of Acts.
Also Read: What does the Bible say about dinosaurs? Find answer here
Also Read: Why Catholic Fathers and Sisters do not marry? Find here
Also Read: Why Christians make the Sign of Cross? Find the answer here
Also Read: Why do Catholics call Priests ‘Father’? Find Answer Here
Also Read: Is baptism necessary for salvation? Find the Answer here
“They spent their time in learning from the apostles, taking part in the fellowship, and sharing in the fellowship meals and the prayers.” (Acts 2:42)
“Day after day they met as a group in the Temple, and they had their meals together in their homes, eating with glad and humble hearts.” (Acts 2:46)
“On Saturday evening we gathered together for the fellowship meal. Paul spoke to the people and kept on speaking until midnight, since he was going to leave the next day.” Acts (20:7) These citations mention the breaking of bread only and not the sharing of wine.
Saint Paul states that whoever neglectfully accepts the bread or wine of Christ is a sinner. Noticeably Saint Paul mentions either the bread or wine and not both the components simultaneously.
The bread and the chalice each contain the complete body and blood of God, His Spirit and Divinity. Where there is Body there is Blood. God said, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:48). God did not say that He is the bread and wine of life neither is there any biblical reference to support it.
Since the body and blood of Christ are inseparable, the Holy Eucharist is shared in the form of bread alone. God promises eternal life to whoever eats the holy bread. “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If you eat this bread, you will live forever. The bread that I will give you is my flesh, which I give so that the world may live.” (John 6:51)
Be mindful that through Holy Eucharist we take the body of Christ in the form of holy fellowship. That body also contains blood since there is no body without blood.
This article originally published in “takistan.com.pk”
Join our following social media groups:
Whatsapp Group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/C1ixplwkGoaAyMult40ntx
Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/CatholicchurchPakistan
