Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament

March 27, 2026

In John’s Gospel, Jesus responds to accusations of blasphemy by reminding his listeners of the words of Psalm 82: “gods though you be, offspring of the Most High all of you, yet like any mortal you shall die”. These words call us to remember both our earthly mortality and the promise of eternal life. Jesus, persecuted and threatened, echoes the experience of Jeremiah, who laments that those around him seek to trap and destroy him. Yet Jeremiah remains confident in the Lord’s deliverance from the wicked.

Jesus further assures us in the beatitudes: “Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you … your reward will be great in heaven. Thus, they persecute the prophets who were before you.” These words offer comfort and encouragement to all who face adversity for their faith.

Saint Peter Julian Eymard, writing to Father Mayet after facing rejection from his superior, shares: “God is urging me on. This thought of establishing the work of the Blessed Sacrament is an attraction for me; It is making me better. It is gentle, strong, calm, and satisfying. I see all that it will cost me. No one establishes a new work without being crucified. I am giving up a secure situation and will be exposed to poverty, contempt, and destitution. If the affair does not succeed, people will ridicule me. I see all this; I feel it all. But I seek only the will of God.” (“Tomorrow Will Be Too Late” by Norman B. Pelletier SSS).

Saint Eymard’s perseverance, despite suffering, reveals how blessings may come both in this life and the next. His journey reminds us that faithfulness in the face of persecution is met with God’s grace and that our trials can become sources of blessing for all.

Prayer:

Soul of Christ, make me holy. Body of Christ, make me whole. Blood of Christ, fill me with new life. Water from Christ’s side wash me clean. Passion of Christ, make me strong. O good Jesus, listen to me. Within your wounds hide me. Keep me close to you. From the enemy defend me. At the hour of death, call me, that with all your Saints, I may praise you, forever. Amen. (A Prayer Book for Eucharistic Adoration, page 14, Prayer to our Redeemer.)