Consoled by the Eucharist
Being a priest assigned to a parish comes with its own set of challenges and struggles. From the never-ending demands of pastoral work to the weight of responsibility for the spiritual well-being of the parishioners, it is undeniably overwhelming. Amid these tremendous tasks, however, there is one thing that brings me immense comfort and consolation: the Eucharist.
The Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. It is where we encounter Jesus in a profoundly real and tangible way. A sense of awe and wonder always accompanies me as I behold the mystery of Christ's presence in the bread and wine. It has deepened my faith and trust in Jesus in the Eucharist and led me to a greater appreciation for the gift of his Body and Blood. Each time I celebrate Mass and partake in the Body and Blood of Christ, I am reminded of His love and presence in my life. In those moments of communion with the Lord, I find the strength and grace to carry on with my duties as a priest.
As a Rogationist priest following the eucharistic spirituality of St. Hannibal Mary, the value of the Eucharist is immeasurable. In celebrating the Eucharist, God brings the graces and blessings of this sacrament to all those whom I remember in my masses. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this sacred sacrament and pray that I may continue to be a faithful and dedicated servant of the Eucharist in the spirit of St. Hannibal Mary.
As a priest, I have personally seen how the Eucharistic presence of Jesus profoundly touches persons, especially those who participate in it. Lives are transformed, wounds are healed, reconciliation is attained, and a profound sense of peace is experienced – it is the source of strength and nourishment for the faithful. And it is this privilege to take part in their sacred experiences and journey, sharing it with others, that I am forever grateful for.
Aside from the Eucharistic Celebration, the daily adoration with the community has been a source of great blessing and an avenue for deeper engagement with silence and prayer. It has been a consoling space for me. Coming together in prayer and adoration, we deepen our relationship with the Lord and grow in our faith together. One positive movement I have noticed through this common devotion is how it has led community members to a more mature commitment to their faith.
Seeing this transformative movement within the community brings me joy and consolation as a priest. It reaffirms the purpose of my pastoral life - to lead myself and the whole community closer to Jesus. In these flashes of spiritual growth and renewal, I see God's actions at work, communicating His love and presence among us.
Amid all the struggles and challenges of being a priest, the Eucharist and daily adoration with the community serve as a constant source of solace and strength, reminding me of the depth of God's love and presence in my life and within the community. They propel me to continue my mission of leading others closer to Jesus.
Fr. Paulo Sambile, RCJ collaborates in pastoral ministry of the Parish of St. Lawrence the Deacon in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. He also serves in strengthening the Rogationist presence in the nearby town, Dumalneg, where a small church is already built under the patronage of St. Hannibal Mary Di Francia. It has now been elevated into a Missionary Station.