Today we hear one of the most disturbing phrases in all of the New Testament: "Because of this many of his disciples turned back, and no longer went about with him." (Jn 6: 66) On this particular occasion it happened to be Jesus' teaching on the Bread of Life which he reveals is, in fact, his flesh for the life of the world. It is this mystery which is the key to the life he has to offer: "Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you." (Jn 6: 53) The discussion is no longer about nourishing the body but about experiencing the life that the heavenly Father desires for us through his Son in the Holy Spirit. What, however, is the teaching that proves to be an obstacle to faith in Jesus Christ in 2021? Throughout history the ecumenical councils have shown that different ages have different questions and those who assail the Catholic Church are often convinced of their correctness of doctrine whether it is of faith or of morals. It is then that the Church is called to be truly prophetic. I can think of Pope St Paul VI who stood up for the teaching of the Church on sexuality in Humanae Vitae. For many then and still today it is a hard teaching. Yet, his words have proved in subsequent decades to be prophetic. I expect that the teachings of Popes St John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis will also prove in time, despite their hardness, to be likewise prophetic. I do not pretend to know nor understand entirely the mysteries of the faith and for me, too, some of these are heard teachings. Nevertheless, mindful that the Church and God's truth is so much greater than me, I find myself conforming to the reply of St Peter: "Lord, to who can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God." (Jn 6: 68-69)
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