Eucharist
Video Resources
The Real Presence of Christ
Understanding how Christ is truly present in the Eucharist under the appearances of bread and wine.
The Mass Explained
A deep dive into the structure and meaning of the Catholic Mass.
Eucharistic Miracles
Historical accounts of miraculous events involving the Blessed Sacrament.
Preparing for Holy Communion
How to properly prepare your heart and soul to receive the Eucharist.
Concepts
The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. The other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it.
In the Eucharist, Christ gives us the very body which he gave up for us on the cross, the very blood which he poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. The Eucharist is the memorial of Christ's Passover, the making present and the sacramental offering of his unique sacrifice.
By celebrating the Last Supper with his apostles in the course of the Passover meal, Jesus gave the Jewish Passover its definitive meaning. The new Passover of Jesus, his passage to his Father by his death and Resurrection, is anticipated in the Supper and celebrated in the Eucharist.
Questions & Answers
Yes, Catholics believe in the Real Presence - that the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Christ through transubstantiation during the Mass. While the appearances of bread and wine remain, their substance is completely changed into Christ's Body and Blood. This is not symbolic but a real and substantial presence.
The Mass is the re-presentation (making present again) of Christ's one sacrifice on Calvary. It's not a new sacrifice, but the same sacrifice of Christ offered in an unbloody manner. Through the Mass, we participate in Christ's offering of himself to the Father for our salvation.
The Church requires Catholics to receive Holy Communion at least once a year during the Easter season. However, Catholics are encouraged to receive frequently, even daily if possible, provided they are in a state of grace (free from mortal sin). Regular reception of the Eucharist strengthens our union with Christ and the Church.