In the days since the outbreak of the coronavirus we have become used to the phrase “social distancing.” Out of a concern for our health and the health of others we have begun to put distance between ourselves. In these times that is necessary, but it always comes at a cost. 

The Mass literally means communion for us – the opposite of social distancing. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that, “Those who receive the Eucharist are united more closely to Christ. Through it Christ unites them to all the faithful in one body – the Church.” (CCC1396). And when we gather together as that Body of Christ, we receive Jesus as Word and especially in the spiritual food of His Body and Blood. “What material food produces in our bodily life, Holy Communion wonderfully achieves in our spiritual life. Communion with the flesh of the risen Christ . . . preserves, increases, and renews the life of grace received at Baptism.” (CCC 1392) This greatest gift of God’s grace in the Eucharist is irreplaceable and our souls will remain restless until they rest in Christ. 

The Eucharist alone is the true source and summit of our Christian life. In those rare moments when we are prevented from receiving Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament our Lord offers us the grace of spiritual communion when we, the members of His Body, sincerely call to Him in prayer. This spiritual communion can be assisted by every effort to sanctify the Lord’s Day. 

Making a spiritual communion for those who, for whatever reasons, cannot receive the Eucharist is an ancient Catholic spiritual practice. Jesus loves us and knows our circumstances. He is generous with His grace for ones who suffer. 

During these days of the coronavirus let us think of those Catholics throughout the world who suffer so much more than we do. There are faithful Catholics in other countries who long to receive Jesus in the Eucharist. May every prayer for spiritual communion increase our appreciation and desire for the Mass lest we ever take such a divine gift for granted.