We find Christmas hope in the Eucharist

The word "Christmas" comes from the Old English Christes maesse, or “Christ’s Mass.” It’s the celebration of the Holy Mass in honor of Christ’s birth. Other names for the great Solemnity of Christmas derive from the Latin word nativitas (nativity) — in Italian, Natale; in French, Noel; and in Spanish, Navidad.

It was not until after the legalization of Christianity in the year A.D. 313 by the Emperor Constantine that we first hear about the celebration of the Christmas feast. Prior to that, on December 25, the pagan Romans celebrated the feast of the birth of Sol Invictus (“The Invincible Sun”). It was celebrated throughout the Roman Empire, but in Rome it took place at the hill that is now the Vatican. Some historians credit Constantine with replacing this pagan feast with the Christmas feast. The celebration of Christmas highlights Christ’s birth as the victory of the true Light over the darkness of evil and sin.

Now, in 2020, we ask, what does Christmas mean for each one of us, especially during this most challenging year? For most, Christmas brings renewed hope, joy, and salvation. It’s the celebration of God becoming man, and every human having the possibility to share in His divine and eternal life. “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel (God with us),” (Matt. 1:22). Our faith through Him and in Him gives all humanity a reason for hope, joy, and life eternal!

For many of us, during this year, our hope and the certainty of faith has been tested. The COVID-19 lockdown of our churches, homes, and businesses, along with the national and global social unrest, has caused painful hardships and distress. This has left many with restless and anxious hearts seeking renewed hope and answers of reassurance.

Where does one find the answer? The answer is a person — Jesus Christ!

A Catholic in good standing, free and conscientiously aware of not having committed any mortal sins, can have the amazing gift of receiving Christ Himself in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Though a mystery, Jesus Christ is truly present in the Holy Eucharist. “For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324). Jesus, whom we receive in Holy Communion, is the same Jesus born in Bethlehem, our Lord and our God!

The Holy Eucharist allows us to be fully alive, nourishing us spiritually and physically so we may grow in the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. In these times of uncertainty, one needs only to turn to Christ for the hope needed to navigate these challenging days. “I am always with you” (Matt. 28:20). Search “Eucharistic miracles” on the internet and witness the mighty power of God!

If you’re looking for the strength and energy you need to manage life’s challenges and struggles, look no further than your local Catholic Church where you’ll find Him — Jesus, the essential food — the Bread of Life!

CHEF NEIL FUSCO is founder of Cucina Antica Foods, Corp., a specialty Italian food-products company. Raised on a farm in San Marzano in southern Italy, he learned his family’s farm production and cooking. His 2017 cookbook, May Love Be the Main Ingredient at Your Table, presents amusing and heartfelt stories about faith, family, and recipes from his Old World childhood.

Nonni's Nutella Cookies • Yields: 128 cookies

Ingredients:
1½ large jars of Nutella
2 sticks butter
8 oz. sour cream
3 cups flour
2 egg whites, whisked
Confectioner’s sugar

Preparation:
Combine butter, sour cream, flour, and egg whites into a large bowl. Mix well until dough forms. Divide into four or five large balls, about the size of an orange. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Massage dough to soften. Roll into a 12-in. by 6-in. rectangle.

Run jar of Nutella under hot water to soften. Spread onto bottom half of dough, lengthwise, then fold the top over. Pinch the edges to seal in Nutella.

Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice the dough in half lengthwise and ¾-inch pieces widthwise. One rectangle should yield 32 cookies. Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar.