Eucharistic Exposition and Benediction

The solemn exposition of the Holy Eucharist offers the opportunity to the people of God for prayerful reflection on their call to a deeper devotion to the Eucharist and a more faithful living of the Christian life.  It provides them with an opportunity to become more aware of Christ's presence with his people and invites them to a spiritual communion with him. (SEHC #5)

Eucharistic exposition and benediction are part of the Church's official liturgy and is a complete liturgical service in its own right.   St. Raphaels offers Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament every week on Wednesday.  From the end of the 8:00am daily Mass, the Eucharist is exposed for Adoration until 6:30pm when Benediction is celebrated., before the 7pm Wednesday Evening Mass. 

Since October 5th 2005, Adoration Honor Guards "sign up" to be present in prayer with the Blessed Sacrament in one hour shifts starting at 9am, ending at 6:30pm.  Aside from the Honor Guards many devout Catholics visit the Blessed Sacrament for periods of private prayer and reflection lasting from 10 minutes to hours.   Wednesday is also a day set aside to Pray for Vocations in the Diocese of St. Petersburg, many who visit during Exposition also pray for Vocations to the priesthood.