A few years ago my family held a celebration to remember what would have been the 100th birthdays of my deceased grandparents. They were large figures in our lives, and we wanted to recall their role in our family. We gathered together, shared some stories, and looked at photos. It was a nice way to bring them "back to life," if only for a day.

We are used to remembering people and events that are important to us. We remember loved ones on special occasions, and we remember historical events that shaped our nation and communities. We have parties and parades, picnics and barbecues.

Today we are called to remember Christ in the celebration of his body and blood. We remember that Jesus calls us to "do this in memory of me" each time that we celebrate the Eucharist.

But in this celebration, we are not asked to simply recall the Last Supper and remember a nice meal that Jesus had with his disciples. We are called to continue to experience and to be Jesus' body and blood in this world through our participation in the church.

I've often said that Christianity would be easy if it were just a matter of attending services, following a few rules and performing a few mandatory chores. It would take some time and perhaps be a bit inconvenient, but no more so than your garden variety service organization.

But following Jesus Christ is not like joining the Elks Club or the Oddfellows. We do not get a membership card by paying some modest dues. We are called to constantly examine our hearts and align our lives with Jesus Christ as we change and grow, and as the world changes around us.

The feast of the Body and Blood of Christ reminds us that when we join the church, we are not joining an "organization"; we are embarking on a journey of transformation. We are to be transformed from ordinary women and men into the body of Christ himself. It is simple but it is not easy.

It is easy to lose sight of this ongoing miracle that takes place in part each time we attend Mass. When we experience the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, we are experiencing the real presence of Christ, and we are continuing to become the real presence of Christ. It is a humbling mystery.

A friend of mine used to say that "Do this in memory of me" means people should be reminded of Jesus when they meet us. I don't know about you, but I don't think anyone has ever said, "Gee, that guy reminds me of Jesus" when they met me. I wish they did.

"Do this in memory of me" must mean more than "have a service in my honor." It means, "Continue my mission and ministry." We are called to be transformed into the healing, compassionate presence of Christ in this world.

Bill Peatman writes from Napa.