Mendi Diocese Encouraged to Deepen Reverence for the Eucharist

Kumin, Southern Highlands Province – 6 June 2026

Fr. Tomas Ravaioli IVE, Director for the Liturgical Catechetical Institute

As the Diocese of Mendi marked the conclusion of its Year of Reverence and celebrated the Priestly Ordination of new priests, the faithful gathered at Kumin were invited to reflect more deeply on the sacred mystery of the Holy Eucharist and the importance of reverence in Christian life.

Addressing the congregation, Fr. Tomas Ravaioli offered a spiritual reflection on the meaning of reverence during the celebration of Holy Mass, emphasizing that the Eucharist is not merely a symbolic act but a true encounter with the living God.

Drawing inspiration from the account of Moses before the burning bush (Exodus 3:1–6), Fr. Ravaioli recalled how Moses responded with awe and humility when confronted with God's holy presence. He noted that the same divine presence is encountered in every celebration of the Eucharist.

“In the Holy Mass, God becomes present among us; in the Holy Mass, we meet God; and in the Holy Mass, God invites us to respond with reverence,” he said.

At the centre of his reflection was the mystery of Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist. Through the words of consecration pronounced by the priest during the Mass, Christ becomes truly present under the appearances of bread and wine. This sacred mystery, Fr. Ravaioli explained, calls for a response of profound faith, humility and adoration from all who participate in the liturgy.

Reflecting on the Gospel, he highlighted several examples of reverence shown towards God. The Magi knelt in adoration before the Christ Child; Mary of Bethany sat attentively at the Lord’s feet; the leper approached Jesus with humility and trust; and Saint Peter acknowledged his unworthiness before the Lord. Even Jesus Himself, in the Garden of Gethsemane, knelt in prayer before His Father.

“These examples teach us how to approach the Lord—with humility, faith, and a deep awareness of His holiness,” Fr. Ravaioli said.

He further encouraged the faithful to recognize that reverence is expressed not only within the heart but also through outward gestures. Acts such as kneeling, bowing, maintaining prayerful silence, and participating attentively in the liturgy are visible signs of faith and respect for the sacred mysteries being celebrated.

Particular emphasis was placed on the reception of Holy Communion. Fr. Ravaioli reminded the faithful of the Church’s invitation to approach the Eucharist with a proper disposition, recalling the words proclaimed before Communion: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof.”

He also reflected on the sacred ministry of the priesthood, noting that through the Sacrament of Holy Orders priests are consecrated for service at the altar and entrusted with the care of the Eucharistic mystery. This sacred responsibility, he said, should inspire the faithful to deepen their appreciation and reverence for the Eucharist.

Looking beyond the liturgical celebration itself, Fr. Ravaioli encouraged Christians to carry the fruits of the Mass into their daily lives. Reverence for God, he explained, should not end when the liturgy concludes but should continue to shape one's conduct, relationships, and witness in society.

Quoting the Letter of James, he reminded the congregation that faith must be expressed through action. Having encountered Christ in the Eucharist, believers are called to become living witnesses of His presence through lives marked by charity, humility, and holiness.

As the Diocese of Mendi concludes its Year of Reverence, the message served as a timely invitation for all the faithful to renew their love for the Eucharist and to rediscover the sacredness of the Holy Mass.

In doing so, they are called not only to honour Christ present in the liturgy but also to bear witness to His presence in the world through lives transformed by faith.