We often hear it said, “This is the crux of the matter.” This word, “crux,” refers to the central truth or point of an affair or event. The word is Latin for “cross.” In a very real way we can say that the Eucharistic Prayer, or Canon, is really the center or high point of the Mass, because it is the part of the Eucharistic Liturgy at which the Sacrifice of the Cross, from which the grace and mercy of God is poured out upon all in attendance, is made present on the altar. It is really the crux of the Mass!
As we begin our reflection upon the crux, or the heart, of the Mass, we should recognize some key elements about this sacred and eternal moment in the sacred liturgy.
The Eucharistic Prayer, or Canon, of the Mass is also known by the Greek word anaphora, which means “a raising up” or “an offering.” It reminds us that there is truly a Sacrifice being offered at Mass. The offering of bread and wine become the one and true Sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us, “ with the Eucharistic Prayer—the prayer of thanksgiving and consecration—we come to the heart and summit of the celebration.”
The entire Eucharistic Prayer or Canon is one of thanksgiving. We see this shown in the Preface which immediately precedes it, which at every Mass begins with the words, “It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, Holy Father, almighty and eternal God.” In fact, the word “Eucharist” is taken from the Greek word “eucharistein,” which means “to give thanks.”
To whom is the offering made and the Eucharistic Prayer addressed? When the priest prays the Eucharistic Prayer, he is turning to the Father and addresses Him in an act of thanksgiving, adoration, and praise. In this central prayer of the Eucharistic Liturgy the priest, who is configured to Christ the Great High Priest, is in intimate conversation with the Father as he stands in the Person of God the Son in the power of the Holy Spirit. In this prayer the priest offers all the prayers and intentions of the people gathered before the altar along with the Sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. The faithful also unite themselves and their prayers to the Eucharistic Prayer, or Canon. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “In the Eucharist the sacrifice of Christ becomes also the sacrifice of the members of the Body. The lives of the faithful, their praise, sufferings, prayer, and work, are united with those of Christ and with his total offering, and so acquire a new value. Christ’s sacrifice present on the altar makes it possible for all generations of Christians to be united with his offering” (#1368).
We truly have come to the crux of the matter, the crux of the Mass, when we arrive at the Eucharistic Prayer. It is there that Christ makes Himself substantially present and His love and mercy for us are made manifest in a marvelous manner.
As we move forward with our study of the Mass, we will continue to examine and contemplate the Eucharistic Prayer or Canon so that we may more fully participate in the Sacred Mysteries with love and devotion.
Most Reverend William J. Waltersheid
Auxiliary Bishop of Pittsburgh