I am deeply saddened by the recent article titled “Perpetual eucharistic adoration” by Father Richard McBrien. This article directly opposes what the church teaches by stating that there is no need for extraneous eucharistic devotions and that eucharistic adoration is a spiritual step backwards.
Fr. McBrien finds it difficult to speak favorably about this devotion, yet Pope Benedict heartily recommends us to practice eucharistic adoration in his writings. In addition, Pope John Paul II stated in his encyclical letter Ecclesia de Eucharistia, “The worship of the Eucharist outside of the Mass is of inestimable value for the life of the Church. This worship is strictly linked to the celebration of the Eucharistic sacrifice.”
While Fr. McBrien smugly suggests well educated Catholics do not need this devotion, Pope John Paul II continues in his letter, “how can we not feel a renewed need to spend time in spiritual conversation, in silent adoration, in heartfelt love before Christ present in the Most Holy Sacrament? How often, dear brothers and sisters, have I experienced this and drawn from it strength, consolation and support!” How beautiful to see how our previous Holy Father drew strength from eucharistic adoration. These are the words and example we all need to follow!
Mother Teresa said that the time we spend with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is the best time we will spend on earth.
Articles such as Fr. McBrien’s do not feed and strengthen our faith. They do not bring the light of truth into our lives, and I believe they are offensive to God. I am certain I speak for many when I say we all long to be fed spiritually with the beautiful truths of our Catholic faith rather than be saddened from reading dissident articles such as this.
Sandi Hansen
Davenport
