Catholic Ecclesiology in the Practice of Online Eucharistic Celebrations: Spiritual Presence and Sacramental Communion During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digitalization of Eucharistic celebrations while raising questions about sacramental presence and the continuity of ecclesial communion. This study aims to analyze the experiences of Catholics participating in online Eucharistic celebrations and interpret their implications for understanding spiritual presence, communal participation, and sacramental communion from the perspective of Catholic ecclesiology. The study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-interpretive design, supported by a descriptive survey of 11 respondents from the Diocese of Bogor, Indonesia, in-depth interviews, and a literature review. The researchers analyzed the survey data using frequency distributions and percentages and interpreted the findings within the framework of Catholic ecclesiology. The results indicate that all respondents had participated in online Eucharistic celebrations, and 90.9% reported that this practice supported their spiritual life and deepened their experience of faith. However, 81.8% reported the suspension of parish group activities, while 63.6% experienced internet connectivity problems. These findings demonstrate that digital media helped maintain access to liturgical celebrations and supported participants' spiritual experiences. Nevertheless, digital participation did not necessarily ensure the continuity of communal engagement or replace the sacramental reception of the Eucharist. This study highlights the importance of developing digital pastoral ministry that addresses technological accessibility, spiritual guidance, and the continuity of ecclesial communion. The study's conceptual contribution lies in its multidimensional interpretation of communio, which distinguishes mediated presence, spiritual experience, and communal-sacramental communion within the life of the Catholic Church in the digital age.