Being formed as an Associate of the Blessed Sacrament is a process of introduction to the eucharistic vision and mission of Saint Peter Julian Eymard, as lived by the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament.
Saint Peter Julian Eymard saw the Eucharist as a powerful means for the transformation of individuals and society. He was someone who worked closely and collaboratively with lay persons and others in furthering this vision. Formation into the life of an associate takes place through a variety of experiences designed to prepare candidates for living a life centered on the Eucharist.
Overview
“Under the guidance of the director,
the program of preparation comprises:
prayer, deepening of the life of faith,
appreciation of the specific vocation
of lay persons in the church,
catechesis about the Eucharist,
knowledge of the life and charism
of Saint Peter Julian Eymard,
study of the Rule of Life of the association,
sharing in the life and activities of the association.”
Rule of Life for Associates, 19
Initial formation usually occurs over a year and focuses on the following themes:
- Introduction to the Rule of Life for Associates (ROLA)
- The Founder―His Life and Times
- The Founder―His Eucharistic Vocation
- Historical Development of the Congregation and the Aggregation of the Blessed Sacrament
- Vocational Call of the Laity to Service in the Church
- Evangelization and Mission
- The Eucharist as the Center of Our Life
- Table of the Word
- Liturgy of the Eucharist
- Liturgy of the Hours
- Prayer in the Presence of the Eucharist (Adoration)
- Preparing for the Covenant Commitment Ceremony
Prayer, dialogue, listening, sharing, and fellowship are all part of the initial formation experience, as associates grow together into a community of friendship and faith centered on the Eucharist. We assist one another in deepening our appreciation of this central mystery of the Christian life and in living it in union with other members of the Eymardian family.
Commitment
After a period of formation and discernment, associates make a public covenant with a promise to place the Paschal Mystery of Christ’s self-giving in the Eucharist at the center of their life.
Contact us if you would like to learn more about becoming an Associate of the Blessed Sacrament:
Center for Eucharistic Evangelizing
Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament
5384 Wilson Mills Road
Cleveland, OH 44143
Telephone: (440) 442-4734
E-mail: cee@blessedsacrament.com