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The Major Elevation During the Eucharistic Prayer at Mass, the priest lifts up the host as he pronounces the words of consecration. “This is my Body, which will be given up for you.” He then raises the chalice as he says, “This is the chalice of my Blood…do this in memory of me.” This moment in the Mass is called the major elevation. When the priest elevates the host, it is no longer just bread, but is truly the Body of Christ. And in that chalice is no longer just wine, but truly the Blood of Christ. It should be an awe-filled moment for all who witness this great miracle and mystery. In John 8:28, Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM.” When the priest lifts up the host and the chalice, we must realize that we are gazing upon the Author of Life, the Alpha and the Omega, the great I AM, the very God who created us! This is a moment of utmost reverence for Catholics. Many people will bow their heads or say a brief prayer. After each elevation, the priest will genuflect out of reverence to the true presence of Christ. Upon each elevation, many parishes will ring bells. The purpose of the bells is to honor Jesus our King, and to snap us to attention; to remind the congregation of the magnitude of what is happening right before our very eyes – Jesus is here! The Bridegroom has 51 come! Stay awake! For further study: John 8:28 • John 3:14-15 Notes


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