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Holy Communion

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. The term “Eucharist” originates from the Greek word eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving.

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The Eucharist

​The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist is a profound mystery that lies at the heart of the Catholic faith. Through the power of the Holy Spirit and the ministry of the priest, bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ, sustaining and nourishing believers on their journey of faith. May we approach the Eucharist with awe and reverence, recognizing the presence of Christ among us and allowing Him to transform our lives through this sacred sacrament.

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Where is the Eucharist mentioned in the Bible?

The Eucharist is the central aspect of Catholic worship, rooted in the words and actions of Jesus Christ at the Last Supper. Through this sacred meal, we are invited to remember and participate in the redemptive sacrifice of Christ and to experience the profound mystery of his presence in our midst. May we approach the Eucharist with reverence and gratitude, recognizing it as a gift of grace and a foretaste of the kingdom of God. The Institution of the Eucharist is written down in the four Gospels below:

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  • Matthew 26:26-30

  • Mark 14:22-26

  • Luke 22:14-20

  • John 6:22-59 (The Bread of Life Discourse)

Why does Jesus give himself to us as food and drink?

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The Eucharist is a profound gift from Christ, given to us out of love and a desire for unity. By participating in this sacred meal, we can partake in the life of Christ and experience a mystical union with him. Through the Eucharist, we are transformed and renewed, becoming more fully alive in Christ. Let us approach the table of the Lord with reverence and gratitude, knowing that through this sacred meal, we are nourished and sustained by the love of our Savior.

Is the Eucharist a symbol?

The transformed bread and wine in the Eucharist are truly the Body and Blood of Christ and are not merely symbols. The doctrine of Transubstantiation affirms this belief, and it is a central aspect of Catholic faith and practice. When we receive the Eucharist, we are not only receiving a piece of bread and a sip of wine, but we are receiving Christ himself, who gives us life and salvation. The Eucharist is a profound mystery that reminds us of the sacrificial love of Christ and his presence among us.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist

The preparation of the gifts and the altar in the Liturgy of the Eucharist is a sacred and symbolic act that prepares the faithful to participate in the holy sacrifice of the Mass. Through the offering of bread and wine, the faithful symbolize their offering of themselves to God, while also acknowledging His presence and grace in the sacramental elements. The Prayer over the Offerings further disposes all present for the Eucharistic Prayer, where the sacrifice of Christ is made present and eternal for the salvation of humanity. Ultimately, the Liturgy of the Eucharist is a profound and transformative experience that nourishes the soul and strengthens the faith of the faithful, making them more fully alive in Christ.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist

The Eucharistic Prayer is indeed the heart of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. It is a prayer of thanksgiving, of sacrifice, and of unity. Through this prayer, the celebration of the Eucharist becomes a participation in the sacrifice of Christ on the cross and a foretaste of the heavenly banquet. It is a sacred moment where the faithful are invited to offer themselves to God and to be united with Christ in His sacrifice.

The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church

The document The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church was developed by the Committee on Doctrine of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). It was approved by the full body of the USCCB at its November 2021 General Meeting and has been authorized for publication.

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