Recently, Archbishop Anthony Fisher of Sydney (and formerly of Parramatta) spoke about the Eucharist, saying “The greatest Eucharistic miracle is the everyday one, and it happens quietly and faithfully, at Mass after Mass, parish after parish.” God takes ordinary bread and wine and offers it to us as the Body and Blood of Christ.
This ordinary bread and wine, of course, is offered to God by all of us who participate in the Eucharistic celebration. It is “the fruit of the earth”, the “fruit of the vine” and “work of human hands”. It makes sense, therefore, that members of the assembly, representing us all, bring forward this bread and wine for the offering.
There is a long tradition of the offertory procession also including the gifts of our labour (nowadays continued in the monetary collection). Gifts such as other foods for passing on to those in need have also been part of this tradition – this is described in a 2nd century account of the Mass from St Justin Martyr. In this way, the offertory procession is a reminder that the Eucharist nourishes us in order to live the mission of Jesus.
Unlike other ministries at Mass, there isn’t a roster for the offertory procession. Someone assists with finding people before Mass who are willing to fulfil this role. If you haven’t fulfilled this role before and would like to do so, please see one of the collection wardens or the senior server in plenty of time before Mass begins. New volunteers are always welcome.
Published in our parish bulletin, Carmel, 26 July 2026
Photo credit: Alphonsus Fok, Diocese of Parramatta
Liturgy 