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
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come! Stay awake!
For further study:
John 8:28 • John 3:14-15
Notes