Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers on Evangelization and the Power of the Eucharist

In a dynamic and heartfelt address at the 10th National Eucharistic Congress, Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers passionately conveyed the transformative power of the Eucharist and the essential role of evangelization in the life of every Catholic. Speaking to a diverse audience, Deacon Harold emphasized the unity and mission that stem from a deep relationship with Jesus Christ, especially as encountered in the Eucharist.

Deacon Harold began by highlighting the unity among attendees from various backgrounds, all gathered to celebrate the living presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. He described the Eucharist as the source of unity that transcends race, language, and culture, binding believers in an unbreakable bond of faith.

He shared that the encounter with Christ in the Eucharist is life-changing news that must be shared with others. Each person is called to witness and spread the gospel, simply by “throwing seeds” of faith in everyday interactions. Deacon Harold illustrated this with a personal anecdote about a conversation with a bartender who sought spiritual connection through hallucinogenic mushrooms. Deacon Harold used this opportunity to explain the Catholic understanding of connecting with God through the Eucharist, highlighting the profound and real presence of Christ in the sacrament.

Deacon Harold emphasized that evangelization is not reserved for experts but is a calling for all baptized Christians. He defined a disciple as one who hears, accepts, and practices the teachings of Jesus Christ, urging everyone to share their personal experience of knowing Christ and inviting others to share in His life through the Eucharist. He referenced John 17, where Jesus prays for unity among His followers, a unity that the Eucharist fosters.

Addressing contemporary cultural obsessions with vampires and zombies, Deacon Harold drew a parallel to the Eucharist. He explained that while these fictional creatures seek life through consuming flesh and blood, it is in the Eucharist that believers receive the true flesh and blood of Jesus, which grants eternal life. This sacrament is not make-believe but a profound reality that offers true spiritual nourishment.

He shared another personal story about a colleague who inquired about the rosary hanging in his car. Deacon Harold explained the rosary’s significance in meditating on the mysteries of faith through the heart of Mary, which opened a door to deeper conversations about faith. This story underscored the importance of being open to opportunities to share faith in simple, personal ways.

Deacon Harold emphasized the importance of leading with love in evangelization, not by watering down the faith, but by making the message of Christ attractive and compelling. He shared a testimony of a former colleague who returned to the Catholic Church after attending a conference, moved by the love and truth she witnessed.

Highlighting the healing power of the Eucharist, Deacon Harold recounted a personal story of reconciliation with his estranged father, who found peace and conversion at the end of his life. He stressed that the Eucharist is a source of healing and unity within the Church, urging believers to seek this sacrament’s transformative power.

Deacon Harold concluded with a reflection on the importance of Eucharistic adoration, describing it as a face-to-face encounter with the living God. He encouraged the audience to pour out their hearts in adoration, just as Jesus poured out His life on the cross, fostering a deep, personal relationship with Christ.

His address ended with a powerful call to action, urging attendees to live out their faith boldly and joyfully, sharing the love of Christ with the world. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause, inspired by Deacon Harold’s passionate and profound message.