Practical suggestions for parishes and schools
The playbook includes practical suggestions for fostering personal encounters with Christ in the Eucharist, including eucharistic processions, retreats on the Eucharist, and “Mercy Nights,” evenings of adoration, music, and fellowship.
One of the suggestions is for parishes to request a visit of the relics of Blessed Carlo Acutis and St. Manuel Gonzalez Garcia, special intercessors for the revival.
Vasek’s parish in Minnesota recently hosted the relics for an evening of adoration, confession, and veneration.
“A bunch of people afterwards commented that this was such a transformational night, with such a Catholic feel,” Vasek said. “It’s one thing that we were able to do that was an evening of great grace.”
The playbook’s suggestions for “reinvigorating devotion” include sharing inspiring stories about the Eucharist, such as testimonials from people in the diocese, and stories about eucharistic miracles and the transformative power of the Eucharist in the lives of saints. Promoting the practice of short visits to the Blessed Sacrament and instructing the faithful on how to make a holy hour are also recommended.
Parishes are advised to offer formation programs to teach the faithful about the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, and how to “open oneself more fully to the grace of receiving Jesus in Holy Communion.”
The executive team of the National Eucharistic Revival will soon make available additional resources for Catholic leaders and all lay people at its website, www.EucharisticRevival.org. Register for the free “Heart of the Revival” newsletter to stay informed about events related to the revival and new materials for formation and inspiration.
Zelda Caldwell is News Editor at Catholic News Agency based in Washington, DC. She previously worked for Aleteia, as News and Culture editor.