In an effort to help people become more personally connected with Jesus in the Eucharist, the Office of Faith Events is combining this year’s Youth Explosion with a Family Eucharistic Celebration that will help youth and families do just that through “Mass Confusion.” Performed as part of the Doug and Dave Show, the program will explore our Catholic faith within the context of the Mass. It takes place Sunday, Nov. 6 at St. Bernard School, Uncasville. 

“Through ‘Mass Confusion,’ performers Doug and Dave will share the beauty, history and mystery of the source and summit of our Faith in an engaging manner that draws the attention of all ages and backgrounds,” said Liza Roach, Youth and Young Adult Minister. 

“Mass Confusion” will assist participants in understanding and transforming their relationship with the Mass in a fun and enjoyable way. The aim of the show is to help attendees enkindle a living relationship with Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. 

“Then we will put our new knowledge and enlivened faith into action as we celebrate together in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass with Fr. Jonathan Ficara, Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Norwich,” Roach said. “During the liturgy, we will make connections to why priests do what they do, why we say what we say, and how actions lead to Jesus’ presence with us.”

This year’s combined Youth Explosion and Family Eucharistic Celebration is part of a three-year Eucharistic Revival initiated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to inspire, educate, and unite Catholics about the true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. According to the USCCB website, “In a world where not many people know Jesus intimately, the revival is meant to show everyone what wonders the True Presence of Jesus can do to heal the soul.” 

“This begins with forming and educating people on the source and summit of our faith: the Mass,” Roach added. 

A video from the USCCB provides more information about the revival. It can be reached at this link: https://bit.ly/3cBTXAC 

Throughout the year, the Office of Faith Events will offer ways each of us can become more personally connected to Jesus in the Eucharist. In addition to “Mass Confusion” on Nov. 6, the office will sponsor a Scripture study in November, a panel discussion on the Eucharist in January, Dinner with Jesus in March, and more. The programs are part of a grassroots movement that hopes to restore understanding and devotion to the great mystery of the Eucharist here in the United States. 

“Mass Confusion” is open to people of all ages. Families are encouraged to attend. The cost is $5 per person, $25 per family, or $4 per youth attending with their youth group. To register, singles, couples, or families may go to https://bit.ly/2Laol7Y to purchase tickets or call Marianne Nicholas at (860) 848-2237 Ext. 304. Youth Groups and Schools will need Office for Safe Environments paperwork as well as registration. Please contact Liza Roach at lroach@norwichdiocese.net or call (860) 848-2237 Ext. 305 for the necessary materials.

By Liza Roach