Pittsburgh bishop says synod reminded Catholics of power of Eucharist

Published: 2005-10-25

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- One of the main accomplishments of the Synod of Bishops was to remind Catholics of the power of the Eucharist in a materialistic and secular age, said a U.S. participant. That very basic challenge, though it did not attract much media attention during the October assembly, is a key part of the modern bishop's duty to "teach the faith and help people embrace the faith," said Bishop Donald W. Wuerl of Pittsburgh. Bishop Wuerl assumed an important role during the synod when he was chosen as a relator, or recording secretary, for one of the 12 discussion groups. He was later elected to a 15-member council that will work on follow-up to the synod. In an interview with Catholic News Service Oct. 24, Bishop Wuerl said a major achievement of the synod was simply to hold up for the church "something we all know but need to be told over and over and over again: that in the mystery of the Eucharist, Christ is present in his church in a way that defines it and us."

Copyright (c) 2005 Catholic News Service /U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service .