Welcome to Saint Matthew Parish’s Eucharist information and registration site!
What is the Eucharist?
In 2019, a Pew Research Center study revealed that 69% of Catholics in the U.S. believed that the bread and wine used in Mass are “symbols of the body and blood of Christ.” In the Eucharist: Sacred Meal, Sacrifice, Real Presence, a study program created by Bishop Robert Barron, we have the opportunity to learn about the Church’s teaching on “the Real Presence of Christ” in the Eucharist. Bishop Barron’s program explores the miraculous gift of the Eucharist, “the source and summit of the Christian life,” according to three themes: meal, sacrifice, and Real Presence. You can find information on the program and watch the trailer at The Eucharist - Word on Fire
Who can participate in the Eucharist study program?
The Eucharist is open to all who are seeking a deeper understanding of the sacrament of Jesus’ Body and Blood and through that a greater loving relationship with the Lord.
What is the format for the Eucharist meetings?
Each session consists of a short video and a guided small group discussion focusing on the content of the video and readings from Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church as well as participants answers to questions and reflections on the relevance of the Eucharist to their lives.
Is there a cost to participate in the Eucharist?
No, the Eucharist study program is free. Each participant will be given a copy of Bishop Barron’s booklet This is My Body and copies of the study questions and commentary for the weekly session. Study questions often refer to the Scriptures and the Catechism of the Catholic Church and participants are encouraged to bring their copies of these texts with them.
How long is the Eucharist program?
Each session of the Eucharist lasts 1.5 hours (video, small group discussion), and there are 5 sessions. (See schedule below.)
When does SMP’s Eucharist study program start? End?
The Eucharist study program at SMP is being offered on two different days of the week to accommodate as many people’s schedule as possible.
The Monday series will run on the following dates: October 30, November 6, 13, 20, and December 4 from 6:30pm until 8:00pm. This option will take place in Saint Bonaventure Newmeyer Hall to coincide with the CFF program.
The Thursday series will run on the following dates: November 2, 9, 16, 30, and December 14 from 7:00pm until 8:30pm. This option will take place in Saint Aloysius Social Hall.
Do I need to attend all sessions of the Eucharist program?
The Eucharist program consists of five sessions and the content is important. However, we understand that participants may miss a session due to illness or prior commitment. When possible, you can take advantage of the program being offered at two different times and attend the alternate session. You can also use the study materials provided to keep up with content that you have missed.
Further questions: Please contact our team leader, Joanna Crammond, by email: [email protected], or phone: 412 877-8133
Meeting Schedule:
Monday series: Newmeyer Hall (Saint Bonaventure Campus), 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Thursday series: Social Hall (Saint Aloysius) Campus), 7:00pm - 8:30pm