03 Nov Turin 2024 – Communion
As we gather here today, let us reflect on the profound meaning of communion. The act of sharing bread and wine is not merely a ritual, but a powerful symbol that speaks to the
very heart of our faith.
In Turin we were reminded that the breaking of bread is Jesus’ “indelible sign and hallmark”.
It was in this simple act, described in the Gospel of Luke, that the disciples on the road to Emmaus finally recognised the risen Christ.
Their eyes were opened, not by a grand revelation, but by the familiar gesture of sharing a meal.
This recognition was not merely about identifying Jesus physically. It was about understanding the deeper significance of his presence, about connecting the dots of
their experiences and seeing the pattern of God’s love revealed in their lives.
The breaking of bread, then, is a symbol of awakening, of coming to see the truth that was always there, but hidden from our view.
It invites us to look beyond the surface, to see the sacred in the ordinary, and to recognise the presence of Christ in the faces of those around us.
In Turin it was highlighted the importance of gratitude in the context of communion. The very word “Eucharist” comes from the Greek efkaristíes, meaning “thank you”. This
reminds us that communion is not about fulfilling an obligation, but about receiving a gift.
It is about acknowledging our dependence on God and on each other, and expressing our thanks for the abundance of life we have been given.
But communion is not confined to the walls of this church. It is a way of life, a call to extend the spirit of sharing and gratitude to all aspects of our lives.
It is about recognizing the needs of others, just as Jesus did, and offering ourselves in service, just as he washed the feet of his disciples.
So, as we partake in this communion, let us do so with open hearts and minds. Let us be mindful of the symbolism of the breaking of bread, and let us allow it to transform our
lives, both within and beyond these walls. Let us be a people of gratitude, of service, and of love, reflecting the true meaning of communion in all that we do.
David and Filipa Reis
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