Eucharist

The Catechism teaches that the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life.” (CCC 1324)

The Eucharist is the heart of our Catholic faith. In this sacrament, Jesus Christ is truly present, Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity.

At every Mass, we do not simply remember what Jesus did. We enter into the mystery of His sacrifice, made present for us on the altar.

The Real Presence

Catholics believe that the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. This is not a symbol. It is a mystery of faith.

At the heart of the Mass are the words of Christ and the invocation of the Holy Spirit. When the priest repeats the words Jesus spoke at the Last Supper, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, the bread and wine are transformed into His Body and Blood.

Through the Eucharist:

• We are united more deeply with Christ
• We are strengthened with grace
• We grow in unity as the Body of Christ
• We participate in the heavenly liturgy and anticipate eternal life

Heaven Touches Earth at Mass

When we gather for Mass, heaven and earth are united. We worship with the angels and saints, and Christ offers Himself to the Father for our salvation.

To reflect on this unseen spiritual reality, we invite you to watch The Veil Removed, a powerful short film that illustrates what the Church teaches is happening at every Mass.

Deepening Faith in the Real Presence

To deepen your understanding of the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, explore the Eucharistic Miracles of the World Exhibition, created by St. Carlo Acutis. His inspiring work highlights documented Eucharistic miracles from around the world that reveal Christ’s living presence in the Blessed Sacrament and strengthen faith in this great mystery.

Who May Receive Holy Communion

Holy Communion is a sacred gift. Those who receive should:

• Be baptized Catholic
• Believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist
• Be in a state of grace
• Observe the one hour Eucharistic fast

If you have questions about receiving Holy Communion, we encourage you to speak with a priest.

Preparing for First Holy Communion

First Holy Communion is a joyful and sacred milestone in the life of a child and family. Children are typically prepared around the age of seven or eight, when they have reached the age of reason.

Requirements

• Must be baptized
• Must be at least seven years old
• Must complete a two year sacramental preparation program
• Must receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before First Holy Communion

The Eucharist is a gift that takes a lifetime to understand. Careful preparation helps children approach this sacrament with reverence and love.

The Role of Parents

At your child’s Baptism, you were reminded that you are the first and best teachers of your child in the ways of faith. The parish supports you, but does not replace your role.

The best preparation for First Holy Communion includes:

• Regular participation at Sunday Mass
• Prayer at home
• Ongoing faith formation
• Modeling love for the Eucharist

When children see faith lived at home, they come to understand the beauty of the sacrament.

We Are Here to Help

If you have questions about the Eucharist or preparing your child for First Holy Communion, please contact the parish office. We are honored to walk with you in this important step of faith.

May our love for the Eucharist deepen each time we approach the altar and receive the Lord with grateful hearts.