Solemnity of Saint Peter Julian Eymard, priest
(for the Eymardian Family)

“The community of believers was of one heart and mind…” (Acts 4:32) in the “Project of Life” of the Aggregation of the Blessed Sacrament:

“Animated by the spirit of Saint Peter Julian Eymard, we form the Aggregation of the Blessed Sacrament, an Association of faithful closely linked with the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament and recognized by the Church.” (page 4)

“The same spirituality and same ideal unites consecrated and lay members of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation as one spiritual family.” (page 24)

“I am the vine, you are the branches.” (John 14:5)

How do we, who belong to the different branches of the Aggregation, remain in the

vine? How can we strive to be a community of one heart and mind?

First, we must identify whose heart and whose mind. It is the heart and mind of Jesus in

the Eucharist through the lens of our founder. Every saint is Eucharistic, but each one in their own way. We have been invited to sing with the angelic chorus as part of the Eymardian section. We must learn to breathe and sing as one, following his direction. And we must recognize who holds the correct interpretation. This has been entrusted to the authority of the Superior Generals of the two Institutes (Congregation and Servants). We must remain on the vine… one heart and one mind.

Yet, we are each unique. The aggregation benefits and grows with the gifts we bring. Our

voice does not get diluted in the whole, but brings depth and adds color. It is within a healthy branch connected to the vine that we can grow and bear fruit.

“Living with ‘one heart and soul,’ we witness to the presence of the Risen Lord.” (Project of Life, page 6)

Let us pray:

“Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.” (Responsorial Psalm)