Dear friends in Christ

Following the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, the enthusiastic multitude went again in search of Jesus. St John continues after the miracle of the previous day to let us see how Jesus had awakened the crowds deepest hopes and love. Thousands of people had left the comfort of their homes to come and hear Him. They wanted to make Him their king. But the Lord departed from them. Upon meeting them again, Jesus says to the people: Truly I say to you, you seek me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Saint Augustine comments: You seek me for worldly motives, not for spiritual ones. How many people there are who seek Jesus for worldly ends… Rarely does someone look for Jesus for the sake of Jesus. We want to be among those few.

The reading of chapter six of St John’s Gospel continues—the Eucharistic Discourse—with our Lord telling the crowds that He is the Bread of Life. Those who heard this teaching in the synagogue could not comprehend what He was teaching them. Only with the passing of the centuries has the Church tried, ever more deeply, to understand this gift and mystery. In the Homily this weekend I continue my reflections on the parts of the Mass in the light of the Gospel. Above all, let us come to Mass with a lively faith and attentive devotion, to receive Him as we should, perhaps praying: Lord, I hope in you, I adore you, I love you, increase my faith. Be the support of my weakness. You, who have remained defenceless in the Eucharist so as to be the remedy for the weakness of your creatures…help me to love you more and more!

God bless you!

Msgr Kevin Hale