Did you know we should carefully prepare our bodies for Mass? Far from just a weekly routine, the celebration of Mass is the center and the summit of the whole Christian life where we witness the miracle of the Most Holy Eucharist, the transformation of bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. That’s a lot to take in all at once, and how could we ever hope to properly prepare for such an occasion? To prepare our bodies, think of Mass as an elaborate and fancy meal you might partake in once in a great while. In anticipation of a great meal, we often eat less beforehand to prepare our stomachs. We also might carefully pick through our closet for a special and appropriate outfit for the setting. The Eucharistic banquet is no different. The Church calls us to fast from food and drink one hour before receiving holy communion, except for water and medicine (Can. 919, §1). The elderly, infirm, and their caregivers are exempt from this requirement. Our bodies, both gestures and clothing, ought to be appropriate for the holiest of feasts (CCC, 1387). Set aside space in your closet for your “Sunday best” clothes that match the importance of the Eucharist. Not sure what to pick out? Start with “business casual” and find clothes that are modest, reverent, and suitable for a holy occasion. We should always avoid wearing clothes that are possibly distracting to others, immodest, or irreverent. For men, this could be tight-fitting clothing, hats, athleticwear, tank tops, jerseys, and short shorts. For women, this could be tight-fitting clothing, athleticwear, low-cut tops, short skirts or shorts, and other styles of revealing clothing. Encountering Christ our Savior is a profound, awe-inspiring privilege and the most important thing we do on a routine basis. Ask yourselves just as routinely as you attend Mass: How can I better prepare my body, mind, and spirit? Written by parishioner, Rick Frantz