In the Second Reading, Saint Paul recounts the institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper. Jesus tells the Apostles to eat his Body and drink his Blood and to “do this in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:23–26). Since this day and without interruption, the Church has celebrated the Eucharist.
The First Reading for this solemnity speaks of Melchizedek, a priest who blessed Abram (later Abraham) and offered bread and wine. Because he is never mentioned again, Melchizedek is seen as a “forever” character. Jesus, whose reign never ends, is said to be foreshadowed in him.
Bible scholars see this solemnity’s Gospel of the miracle of the loaves and fishes as another way in which the Eucharist is foreseen. Jesus feeds the crowd with bread and fish to prepare the way for him to later feed them with his Body and Blood. By eating his flesh and drinking his blood, we are united with Jesus who prepares a place for us in Heaven.
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