|
|
Do you have a question about the Catholic Faith? Email me through the feedback page and your question may be answered here.
Question: Why do you break the host after consecration and drop a little piece in the wine?
Answer: There are two actions going on here. The first action is called, the fraction and the second is called the commingling. The fraction is when the host is being broken. This tradition dates back to Jesus when he broke the bread and offered it to his Apostles. This signifies that though we are many, communion makes us one body in Christ. St. Augustine uses this beautiful analogy, "“Remember that bread is not made from one grain, but from many. When you were being exorcised, it’s as though you were being ground. When you were baptized, it’s as though you were mixed into dough. When you received the fire of the Holy Spirit, it’s as though you were baked. Be what you can see, receive what you are.” This is called "the fraction." When the priest does this, he says the following words inaudibly, "May the mingling of the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ bring eternal life to us who receive it." The commingling signifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ, his body and blood is being reunited.
|