Bishops say Eucharist can transform people, church, world

Published: 2005-10-06

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The celebration and reception of the Eucharist can transform individuals, the church and the world, said members of the world Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist. "When the church recalls the moral obligation to participate in the Sunday Eucharist, it wants to underline its vital importance because (celebrating) the Eucharist is the most important action for Christians and the entire church community," said Bishop Ricardo Blazquez Perez of Bilbao, president of the Spanish bishops' conference. The bishop was one of 13 synod members who made formal speeches during the Oct. 5 evening session of the Oct. 2-23 synod, according to information released by the Vatican. Bishop Blazquez said the fact that Christ instituted the Eucharist on the eve of his death was a clear demonstration that even when the church and individuals are facing great difficulties the Eucharist will give strength and life.

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