Most Catholics have gone to adoration to visit our Eucharistic Lord in the tabernacle.
For some of us , this visit is a recurring pilgrimage, part of our weekly or even daily routine.
Some of us may have gone once or twice but remain uncertain about the difference between common prayer and adoration. We might wonder about the purpose and meaning of frequent adoration, and whether we should do it more often.
What exactly is happening when we receive the Eucharist during Mass or pray in front of the Eucharist in the Blessed Sacrament? Is it worth our time? Is something real taking place?
Let’s explore what Catholic adoration is and why it might be the single best thing you’re missing out on.
First, what is the Eucharist and why is it exposed during the Catholic practice of adoration?
The Eucharist is the real presence of Jesus Christ under the appearances of bread and wine, consecrated during the Mass. It is exposed during adoration to provide the faithful with the opportunity to worship and pray directly before Christ, acknowledging His true presence. This act of adoration deepens one’s personal relationship with Jesus, allowing us to spend time in His presence, reflect on His love and sacrifice, and experience spiritual renewal.
Christ’s Presence
First let’s look at what we mean when we say that the Eucharist is Christ’s presence.
As Catholics we believe that the Eucharist actually transforms from simple gifts of bread and wine into the substance of Jesus himself — by the power of the Holy Spirit and the correct words of the priest. It’s called transubstantiation.
With our own eyes and physical senses it looks like bread, but it’s not. By faith, we see that the Eucharist is Jesus himself.
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Heading to adoration, but need some help finding prayers and guides? We’ve got you covered. Use these guides on three great Catholic prayer practices to aid your next adoration trip: Lectio Divina, Intercessory Prayer, Igantian Contemplation, and the Rosary. Go to FOCUS Equip to find more!
Christ’s Sacrifice
In every Mass, the one sacrifice of Christ on Calvary is made present. The Eucharist allows us to stand at the foot of Calvary spiritually, experiencing the sacrifice that redeemed humanity.
When we look at the host held in the monstrance during adoration, we’re able to meditate on the reality that Christ made it possible to sacrifice himself for us, but never leave us, just like he promised. When he takes the form of the host, he is there with us physically in the room.
Understanding the Eucharist can transform our approach to adoration. Whether you normally attend adoration, or have only been a few times, we hope this has given you a better understanding of the immense gift it is to us as Catholics.
Additional Resources
Inspired by the video in this post? Want to experience adoration at SEEK for yourself? Go sign up to attend SEEK25 this upcoming January!
Fr. Mike Schmitz shares his experiences and the true intimacy that the Lord offers us in the Eucharist and adoration, in his talk “The Hour That Will Change Your Life.”
For even more great Catholic resources, check out our podcast, which features talks from our SEEK conference, and our YouTube channel for videos and more!
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