Eucharist
The Eucharist is the sacrament in which bread and wine are consecrated and received as the Body and Blood of Christ, making it the central act of Catholic worship at every Mass.
Institution at the Last Supper
Catholics trace the Eucharist to the Last Supper, when Jesus took bread and wine and said, "This is my body… this is my blood," commanding the Apostles to "do this in memory of me."
Real Presence
The Church teaches that Christ becomes truly present in the consecrated bread and wine — not merely symbolically — a change called transubstantiation.
Related Terms
Related Saints
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Frequently Asked Questions
How often can Catholics receive the Eucharist?
Catholics may receive Communion once at every Mass they attend, and are encouraged to receive frequently, though the Church's minimum obligation is at least once a year during the Easter season.
Who can receive the Eucharist?
Catholics in a state of grace who have made their First Holy Communion may receive; those conscious of serious sin are asked to go to Confession first.