Love Triangle

By Deacon Cliff Donnelly

Pope Francis calls each of us to be a tangible sign of hope for those in great need. Bishop Golka echoes this call, emphasizing that Jesus alone reveals the fullness of God’s mercy and the truth about humanity. He challenges us to step beyond our comfort zones, carrying Christ’s hope into modern society and making His presence known in the ordinary places of daily life. Throughout this year, the Herald will explore the many ways the faithful in our diocese are living out this mission.

In this issue, we highlight the vital role of parish-based homebound ministry. This ministry forms a sacred connection — a “love triangle”— uniting a person in need of the Eucharist, a willing servant, and, at the heart of it all, Jesus Christ.

Our faith is deeply rooted in the life of the parish, where full and active participation is centered around gathering in person — to receive the sacraments, engage in faith formation, and share in the life of the community. This model serves us well — until the day comes when physical limitations make attendance impossible. Illness, disability, or the challenges of aging can suddenly separate a faithful Catholic from the parish they once called home. For someone who has attended Mass weekly and been actively involved in parish life, this loss can be profoundly difficult, leaving them deprived of a vital source of spiritual nourishment and community through no fault of their own.

Recently, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) released an updated translation of Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharistic Mystery Outside of Mass. This document is very clear, stating: “The celebration of the Eucharist is the center of the whole Christian life…for in the Most Holy Eucharist is contained all the spiritual wealth of the Church, that is, Christ himself…” The new translation further emphasizes: “Sacramental Communion received within Mass is the more perfect participation in the Eucharistic Celebration.” The reception of Holy Communion at Mass is the ideal, but what about those who are unable to attend?

The document provides a clear directive: “Pastors of souls should take care that the sick and aged, even if not gravely ill or in imminent danger of death, should be given the opportunity to receive the Eucharist frequently, even, insofar as possible, daily, especially during the Easter season.”

Each parish has a moral responsibility to bring Holy Communion to those unable to attend Mass. Moreover, the distribution of Holy Communion outside of Mass is ideally carried out by an ordinary minister of the Eucharist — a priest or deacon. However, with our aging population, there are not nearly enough clergy to meet this growing need. That is where you, the laity, play an essential role in this Church mission.

Consider a real-life example within a parish. In 1975, Marie and her husband retired to Colorado Springs after more than 20 years in the Army. Having previously lived here during her husband’s time at Fort Carson, they had vowed to return for their retirement. They were married in the Church and were active members of their parish, attending weekly Mass and participating in the Knights of Columbus and the altar guild. Marie also served as a lector.

When her husband passed away in 2001, Marie, who never had children and had no nearby family, gradually found herself struggling with health issues. Over time, she lost her sight and became confined to a wheelchair. Fifteen years ago, her declining health prevented her from attending daily Mass and participating in her beloved parish. She missed parish life, but more than anything, she longed to receive Holy Communion. One day, she called her pastor and asked if someone could bring her the Eucharist.

Her pastor made an announcement at Sunday Mass seeking volunteers for homebound ministry. Among those in the congregation was Stephen. Having recently attended a men’s retreat with the theme “Being the Hands of Christ in the World,” Stephen had been searching for a ministry that would allow him to serve others in a meaningful way. He felt inspired to answer this call.

Stephen’s commitment to homebound ministry began a 15-year journey that profoundly impacted both his and Marie’s spiritual lives. Every Sunday after Mass, Stephen brings Marie Holy Communion. He follows the USCCB’s Communion rite, prays morning prayer with her, and sings a hymn. This sacred “triangle”— Marie, Stephen, and Christ — has been a source of immense spiritual enrichment and is the highlight of their week.

Stephen has even adjusted travel plans to ensure he never misses his time with Marie. She describes this weekly visit as the most important hour of her week. Stephen, in turn, feels a deep sense of joy and fulfillment, knowing he is living out Christ’s mission in a tangible way.

Have you considered bringing Communion to the homebound? If you feel called to serve in this essential ministry, speak with your pastor. Through your willingness to carry Christ to those in need, you too can become a vital sign of hope and love in our community.