Eucharist: Food for our Faith Journey

 

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. It is true sacrifice, Sacrament, and Communion, during which Christ himself is truly present. When we faithfully receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, we grow deeper in communion with God and fellowship with one another. 

 

The Eucharist also is another name for Holy Communion. The term “Eucharist” originates from the Greek word eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving. It is used in three ways: 

 

• To refer to the Real Presence of Christ

• To refer to Christ's continuing action as High Priest (He "gave thanks" at the Last Supper, which began the consecration of the bread and wine) 

• To refer to the Sacrament of Holy Communion itself

 

Jesus said: “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live for ever; . . . he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and . . . abides in me, and I in him”  – John 6:51, 54, 56

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reception of Holy communion

 

Because Catholics believe that Christ is present Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity in the Holy Eucharist under the appearance of bread and wine, members of those churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Holy Communion (USCCB). As Catholics, there are guidelines we must follow to receive this great gift of love from Christ worthily:

 

• Be baptized into the Catholic faith (see Baptism, RCIA)

• Be free from mortal sin. (see Reconciliation)

• Be attentive and participate fully in the Mass

• Abstain from any food or drink, with the exception only of water and medicine, for at least one hour before the reception of Holy Communion

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Sacrament of First Communion & First Reconciliation for children see iThirst

Sacrament of First Communion & First Reconciliation for adults see RCIA

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Learn more about the Eucharist:

"Presence: The Mystery of the Eucharist"

"The Veil Removed"

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