Pastor's Reflection — Sunday, August 9, 2026

The history of Eucharistic Adoration dates back to the 13th century. The practice of Adoration formally began in Avignon, France on September 11, 1226. King Louis VII of France asked the bishop of Avignon to have the Blessed Sacrament exposed
in the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The throng of adorers was so great that the bishop decided to have the adoration continued day and night.

During the Middle Ages, many more of the faithful began to adore the Blessed Sacrament apart from Mass. At first, the custom was to worship the host reserved in the tabernacle. Eventually, some came to practice the devotion with the tabernacle doors open. Later still, solemn exposition of the host, in a monstrance, became the norm.

It was not until the Council of Trent, however, that perpetual adoration began to develop on a worldwide scale. Throughout Europe, and eventually America, new religious orders arose centered on uninterrupted Eucharistic adoration. While Vatican II emphasized active participation in the Mass, it reaffirmed the value of Eucharistic adoration. Pope St. John Paul II, Pope Benedict, Pope Francis, and Pope Leo have all encouraged the practice of Eucharistic adoration, highlighting its spiritual fruits.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it can be easy to lose sight of the divine presence that surrounds us. Eucharistic Adoration invites us to pause, to breathe, and to sit in the stillness of God‘s love. Here, we can lay our burdens before Him, seek His guidance, and deepen our relationship with our Lord, who is truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.

I am edified by the number of people who visit our parish Adoration Chapel each day. The number of young people who visit is especially inspiring. I encourage all of you to try and carve out time in your week to join us for Eucharistic Adoration.

Whether it be for a few quiet minutes or an hour of prayer, every moment spent in the presence of the Eucharist is a moment spent in the embrace of our Lord.