Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

In a recent inquiry to Father Zachary D. Samples, parochial vicar of St. Peter Catholic Church in Quincy, Nancy from Springfield posed several questions regarding the practices observed during the consecration of the Eucharist.

Father Samples addressed Nancy's first question, explaining the significance of ringing bells during the consecration in Catholic Mass. He clarified that the use of bells during this sacred moment is optional, with their historical purpose being to draw attention to pivotal moments in the Mass. While bells were once a mandatory element, the Second Vatican Council made them optional. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal states that bells can be rung as a signal to the faithful before the Consecration and during elevations by the priest, in accordance with local custom.

Regarding the practice of placing a small piece of the Eucharist into the chalice before consumption, Father Samples elucidated on the concept of "commingling." This act symbolizes the unity of the Body and Blood of Christ and is accompanied by a prayer for eternal life through partaking in the Eucharist. The priest's commingling of the Eucharist under both species serves as a reminder of Jesus' resurrection and the promise of eternal life for believers.

Father Samples concluded his response to Nancy by emphasizing the symbolic and spiritual significance behind these practices in the Catholic Mass.

The dialogue between Nancy and Father Samples sheds light on the rich traditions and symbolism present in the celebration of the Eucharist in the Catholic faith.