by Pedro Arrupe, S.J.

The Eucharist is the center of my life. I cannot imagine a day without the celebration of the Eucharistic Sacrifice. But it is evident that there is a relationship with the Gospels. We find in the Gospels a realistic, historical image of Jesus as he lived in Palestine. And in the Eucharist we find Jesus Christ living today among us. In neither case can we see him with our own eyes, but the story of the Gospels is the word of God. With strong impact it communicates to us the vital meaning of that word. By reading the Gospels we perceive this Jesus of two thousand years ago as living and very near to us. It is as if Jesus of Nazareth continues to live as he lived in former days. On the other hand, the Eucharist is the body and blood of Christ risen, living, present, although he is hidden under the appearances of bread and wine. He makes himself present, he speaks to us, he inspires us, and he gives us strength.