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Eucharist Roots
An Ancient Witness
Friday, October 17, 2025
Dear Friends in Christ,
Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Ignatius of Antioch. A disciple of Saint John the Evangelist, he was arrested in Antioch and brought to Rome for execution in 110 AD. On the way, he wrote seven letters to the different churches in the mediterranean. His letters provide a glimpse into the beliefs of the early Church and in particular in the Eucharist. After scripture itself, they are the most ancient witness to our belief in the Eucharist.
Indeed, Ignatius teaches that the Eucharist is the distinguishing mark of Christians: “Take note of those who hold heterodox opinions on the grace of Jesus Christ which has come to us, and see how contrary their opinions are to the mind of God. . . . They abstain from the Eucharist and from prayer because they do not confess that the Eucharist is the flesh of our Savior Jesus Christ, flesh which suffered for our sins and which that Father, in his goodness, raised up again.”
It is on the basis of the Eucharist that Ignatius appeals to the often fractious Christians to remain united: “Make it a point, then, to participate in one Eucharist. For the flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ is one, and one is the cup that yields unity in his blood.”
The Eucharist nourishes Ignatius’s own faith and his heroic witness: “I have no taste for corruptible food nor for the pleasures of this life. I desire the bread of God, which is the flesh of Jesus Christ, who was of the seed of David; and for drink I desire his blood, which is love incorruptible.”
Finally, he understands his impending martyrdom in terms of the Eucharist. He writes to the Christians in Rome, “I am the wheat of God, and let me be ground by the teeth of the wild beasts, that I may be found the pure bread of Christ.”
Let us take such an ancient witness to the Eucharist as our guide and inspiration to be nourished by Christ so that we can in turn sacrifice for Him.
Updates…
If you haven’t already done so…Read Bishop Burbidge’s letter for Respect Life Month in which he explains the threat to the unborn that is facing Virginia. Here’s more information on the proposed abortion amendment…and how to fight against it.
Finishing the Race is a three-part series on the proper Catholic approach to end-of-life issues. Our first seminar was last Saturday and can be found here. Our next is Saturday, October 25th and will address medical and legal considerations. Take a look at the entire schedule.
Sanctity in the Family…Yes, it is possible! Come learn how. Father Carter Griffin, Rector of Saint John Paul II Seminary in DC will speak on his new book, Forming Families, Forming Saints, offering wisdom, structure, and encouragement for those striving to raise faithful and virtuous children. Come join us on Monday, October 27th, at 7 pm in Monsignor Heller Hall.
It’s back…and more trivial than ever! Catholic Trivia Night 2025: The American Experience…Once again, our Social Outreach Committee will be hosting a Catholic Trivia Night to benefit Catholic Charities. The price of admission is donations to the hygiene item drive. Open to all adults. So form a team, register and be part of this wonderful Catholic community event. Bring your knowledge about all things Catholic, with an American theme… Saturday, November 21st at 6 pm.
Diocesan Service Week is November 9-16. Also check out how Saint James will participate, and to get involved.
Faith Direct Update-For those of you who use Faith Direct (and I recommend that you do!), please note that it will soon be upgrading to ParishSOFT Giving – a new, secure giving platform. This upgrade will happen on November 5th automatically and securely. No action is required from you. Go here to learn more about ParishSOFT Giving. Thank you for your continued support of the parish through E-giving and for your patience during this transition. For questions, please call Faith Direct at 866-507-8757 or email Kathleen Anderson at k[email protected]
The Fair Ridge Shelter (aka ShelterHouse) helps those experiencing homelessness and/or are victims of domestic violence. Our Social Outreach has supported them for years. They’re now in need of bedding, cleaning items, and personal hygiene items that are given to each new family. If you can assist, Fair Ridge Shelter has created an Amazon Wish List. All the items will go directly to them. Contact Susan Jackson at [email protected] with any questions.
Omitted Humor
Sister Mary asked her students, “Does anyone know what we mean by sins of omission?” Patrick replied, “Aren’t those the sins we could have committed and now regret that we didn’t?”
Through the intercession of our Lady and Saint James, may the Lord bless and keep you.
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Scalia