Eucharist
Catholics believe that, after consecration, the bread and wine offered
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on the altar at Mass actually become the Body and Blood
of Jesus Christ. It is not a symbolic presence, but the Real Presence.
The Bible teaches this and the Church has believed this from the
very beginning.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church refers to the Eucharist as “the
source and summit of the Christian life.” (CCC 1324) The Catechism
number 1323 gives a perfect summary. “At the Last Supper, on the night
cross throughout the ages until he should come again, and so to entrust
to his beloved Spouse, the Church, a memorial of his death and resurrection:
a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a Paschal
a pledge of future glory is given to us.’”
The word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving.” The Catechism number
blessing by which the Church expresses her gratitude to God for all his
Finally, the Eucharist prepares us for eternity. In John 6:54 Jesus said,
raise him on the last day.” The Catechism ends its section on the Eucharist
with this: “Having passed from this world to the Father, Christ
gives us in the Eucharist the pledge of glory with him. Participation in
the pilgrimage of this life, makes us long for eternal life, and unites us
even now to the Church in heaven, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all the
saints.” (CCC 1419)
For further study:
CCC 1322-1419
John 6:22-69