The Eucharist: 82 Lessons About the Blessed Sacrament

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Catholic faith. The Eucharist is both a sacrament and a sacrifice. Bread and wine are consecrated at the altar by a bishop or priest presiding at the holy sacrifice of the Mass. In faith, we believe the bread and wine become the body, blood, soul, and divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ. We consume the Eucharist at the Mass, entering into holy communion with Christ our Savior.

The food that you receive, that living bread which came down from heaven, supplies the very substance of eternal life, and whoever will eat it will never die, for it is the body of Christ.” + Saint Ambrose, bishop

In this page you will learn more about the Eucharist than what many Catholics have learned about the sacrament over a lifetime. The page is designed for anyone to be able to scroll through and read. Whether you are at home, adoration, in a plane, or even standing in line, you will learn about the Eucharist and how Sacred Scripture helps explain how Jesus Christ is present in the holy sacrament of our Catholic faith.

Overview of the Holy Eucharist

Reference	Description
Eucharist	Greek: Eucharistia (Thanksgiving)
Institution of the Eucharist	By Jesus Christ at the Last Supper
Sacrament	Visible/ invisible signs of God’s grace
Holy Sacrifice	Commemorates Christ’s sacrifice on the cross
Bread and Wine	Consecrated at the altar during the Mass
Transubstantiation	Changed into the body and blood of Christ
The Mass	Latin: Missa (root: missio, “mission”)
Body and blood of Christ	Consecrated bread and wine at the Mass
Body, blood, soul, Divinity	Christ wholly present in the Eucharist
Holy Communion	Eucharist consumed by the faithful at Mass
Frequent Communion	Received by the Church Fathers and saints
Eucharist is also called	The Blessed Sacrament (see John 6:48)
Eucharist is also called	Bread of heaven, bread of the angels
Eucharist is also called	The Real Presence
Blessed Sacrament	Eucharist in tabernacle with sanctuary candle
Exposition/ Blessed Sacrament	Worship of Christ fully present in the Eucharist
Benediction/ Blessed Sacrament	Priest blesses the faithful with the Eucharist
Eucharist miracles	Throughout the centuries to present day

My Testimonial About the Eucharist

I thought I would share a testimonial with you about the Eucharist. The amazing picture of the Eucharist above was drawn by a friend in seminary who went on to get ordained. We had several classes together, and Fr. Tom drew that during those classes. I was the only one who took an interest in it, and at the end of the year to my surprise he gave it to me. I hope that it inspires you that way it has inspired me over the years.

I kept a diary while I was discerning for the priesthood in seminary. I visited Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament almost every day. There was one November evening where I experienced God’s love in a miraculous way that I have never experienced before. You never know how God will respond when you visit Him in the Blessed Sacrament!

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 17th, 2009 9:24 PM +

“I just spent almost an hour in the tabernacle room, and something happened while I was in there. I’ve never experienced anything like it before. I took my glasses off, closed my eyes and prayed at the kneel port. This lady on retreat got up shortly thereafter and walked out from the room. I continued to pray, mostly just me kneeling there staring at the tabernacle. I sat back and read a chapter from my Prayer Primer book. Alone, I got back on the kneel port, said thanks, prayed for guidance and just a minute or so later I began to feel this warm glow within me and all around me. At one point, I felt so light I almost felt like I could levitate off the kneel port, all the while that warm fuzzy feeling was in me and all around me. It was an amazing experience that I’m not sure words can describe.”

Holy tabernacle of the Blessed Sacrament

Learn About the Eucharist (82 Lessons)

All of the lessons are supported by the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The Gospel verses are in red font in honor of the Precious Blood of Christ.

#1 The Breaking of Bread

Mark 8:6

He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then, taking the seven loaves He gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to His disciples to distribute, and they distributed them to the crowd.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: The Feeding of the Four Thousand (Mark 8:1-10)
Key Words: Authority, Blessing, Bread

“Jesus used this rite, part of a Jewish meal, when as master of the table He blessed and distributed the bread.” Source: CCC 1329

#2 The Origins of the Name “Eucharist”

Luke 22:19

Then He took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.”

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: The Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20)
Key Words: Blessing, Eucharist, Thanksgiving

“The Greek words eucharistein and eulogein recall the Jewish blessings that proclaim – especially during a meal – God’s works: creation, redemption, and sanctification.” Source: CCC 1328

#3 Mana in the Desert

Deuteronomy 8:3

He therefore let you be afflicted with hunger, and then fed you with manna, a food unknown to you and your ancestors, so you might know that it is not by bread alone that people live, but by all that comes forth from the mouth of the LORD.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: God’s Care (Deuteronomy 8:1-6)
Key Words: Bread, Gratitude, Remembrance

“The remembrance of the manna in the desert will always recall to Israel that it lives by the bread of the Word of God.” Source: CCC 1334

#4 The Cup of Blessing

1 Corinthians 10:16

The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ?

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: Warning against idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14-22)
Key Words: Blessing, Cup, Gathering

“The ‘cup of blessing’ at the end of the Jewish Passover meal adds to the festive joy of wine an eschatological dimension: the messianic expectation of the rebuilding of Jerusalem. When Jesus instituted the Eucharist, he gave a new and definitive meaning to the blessing of the bread and the cup.” Source: CCC 1334

#5 The Multiplication of the Loaves

Matthew 14:19

And He ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:13-21)
Key Words: Authority, Blessing, Bread, Multiplication

“As master of the table Jesus blessed and distributed the bread.” Source: CCC 1329

#6 The Commandment to Love

John 13:34-35

I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Double clouds that look like hearts with sunlight shining in blue sky

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: The New Commandment (John 13:1-20; 13:31-35)
Key Words: Authority, Discipleship, Love

“The Lord, having loved those who were His own, loved them to the end. Knowing that the hour had come to leave this world and return to the Father, in the course of a meal He washed their feet and gave them the commandment of love.” Source: CCC 1337

#7 The Prayer Intercessions

1 Timothy 2:1-2

First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity.

Catechism: The movement of the celebration
Passage: Prayer and Conduct (1 Timothy 2:1-15)
Key Words: Intercessions, Mass, Prayers, Thanksgivings

“After the homily…comes the intercessions for all men, according to the Apostle’s words: “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings, and all who are in high positions.” Source: CCC 1349

#8 A Pure Oblation to the Creator

Malachi 1:11

From the rising of the sun to its setting, my name is great among the nations; Incense offerings are made to my name everywhere, and a pure offering; For my name is great among the nations, says the LORD of hosts.

Catechism: The movement of the celebration
Passage: Offense in Sacrifice and Priestly Duty (Malachi 1:6-14)
Key Words: Gifts, Offering, Sacrifice

“The Church alone offers this pure oblation to the Creator, when she offers what comes forth from His creation with thanksgiving.” Source: CCC 1350

#9 Gifts For Those in Need

2 Corinthians 8:9

For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that for your sake He became poor although He was rich, so that by His poverty you might become rich.

Catechism: The movement of the celebration
Passage: Generosity in Giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-15)
Key Words: Charity, Generosity, Gifts

“From the very beginning Christians have brought, along with the bread and wine for the Eucharist, gifts to share with those in need. This custom of the collection, ever appropriate, is inspired by the example of Christ who became poor to make us rich.” Source: CCC 1351

#10 The Eternal Gift

Matthew 26:28

For this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: The Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-30)
Key Words: Body and Blood, Covenant, Gift, Love, Memorial

“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.” Source: CCC 1365

#11 A Memorial of Christ’s Love

John 13:1

Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew that His hour had come to pass from this world to the Father. He loved His own in the world and He loved them to the end.

Catechism: The presence of Christ by the power of His Word and the Holy Spirit
Passage: The Washing of the Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-20)
Key Words: Love, Memorial, Offering

“Since Christ was about to offer Himself on the cross to save us, He wanted us to have the memorial of the love with which He loved us “to the end.” Source: CCC 1380

#12 The Giving of His Life

Galatians 2:20

Yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me; insofar as I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who has loved me and given Himself up for me.

Sunlight shining through Church with the cross

Catechism: The presence of Christ by the power of His Word and the Holy Spirit
Passage: Faith and Works (Galatians 2:15-21)
Key Words: Love, Real Presence, Sacrifice

“In His Eucharistic presence Christ remains mysteriously in our midst as the one who loved us and gave Himself up for us.” Source: CCC 1380

#13 Humility Before Healing

Matthew 8:8

The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.

Catechism: “Take this and eat it, all of you”: communion
Passage: The Healing of a Centurion’s Servant (Matthew 8:5-13)
Key Words: Communion, Faith, Humility, Sacrament

“Before so great a sacrament, the faithful can only echo humbly and with ardent faith the words of the Centurion.” Source: CCC 1386

#14 Christ Will Come Again

Revelation 1:4

John, to the seven churches in Asia: grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before His throne.

Catechism: The Eucharist – Pledge of the Glory to Come
Passage: Letters to the Churches of Asia – Greeting (Revelation 1:4-8)
Key Words: Anticipation, Celebration, Glory

“Whenever the Church celebrates the Eucharist, she remembers this promise and turns her gaze “to Him who is to come.” Source: CCC 1403

#15 “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Revelation 22:20

The One who gives this testimony says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!

Catechism: The Eucharist – Pledge of the Glory to Come
Passage: Epilogue (Revelation 22:6-21)
Key Words: Anticipation, Glory, Promise

“In her prayer the Church calls for His coming: “Maranatha!” “Come, Lord Jesus!” Source: CCC 1403

#16 Awaited Appearance of Our Savior

Titus 2:13

As we await the blessed hope, the appearance of the glory of the great God and of our savior Jesus Christ.

Sun shining over the ocean with waves at the shore

Catechism: The Eucharist – Pledge of the Glory to Come
Passage: Transformation of Life (Titus 2:11-15)
Key Words: Anticipation, Appearance, Hope

“The Church knows that the Lord comes even now in His Eucharist and that He is there in our midst. However, His presence is veiled. Therefore we celebrate the Eucharist “awaiting the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.” Source: CCC 1404

#17 Pledge of the Glory to Come

2 Peter 3:13

But according to His promise we await new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

Catechism: The Eucharist – Pledge of the Glory to Come
Passage: Exhortation to Preparedness (2 Peter 3:11-16)
Key Words: Hope, Pledge, Righteousness

“There is no surer pledge or dearer sign of this great hope in the new heavens and new earth “in which righteousness dwells, than the Eucharist.” Source: CCC 1405

#18 Liturgy of the Eucharist

Luke 24:30-31

And it happened that, while He was with them at table, He took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened, and they recognized Him.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: The Appearance on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
Key Words: Bread, Eucharist, Jesus

“It is by the action of “the breaking of the bread” that Christ’s disciples will recognize Him after His Resurrection, and it is this expression that the first Christians will use to designate their Eucharistic assemblies.” Source: CCC 1329

#19 Feeding the Multitudes

Matthew 14:19-21

…Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, Jesus said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over—twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Feeding of the Five Thousand (Mt 14:13-21)
Key Words: Blessings, Bread, Eucharist, Miracles, Multitudes

“The miracles of the multiplication of the loaves, when the Lord says the blessing, breaks and distributes the loaves through His disciples to feed the multitude, prefigure the superabundance of this unique bread of His Eucharist.” Source: CCC 1335

#20 Gifts of Bread and Wine

Genesis 14:18

Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine. He was a priest of God Most High.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Four Kings (Genesis Chapter 14)
Key Words: Bread, Gifts, Offertory, Wine

“In the Offertory we give thanks to the Creator for bread and wine, fruit of the “work of human hands,” but above all as “fruit of the earth” and “of the vine” – gifts of the Creator. The Church sees in the gesture of the king-priest Melchizedek, who “brought out bread and wine,” a prefiguring of her own offering.” Source: CCC 1333

#21 The First Christians Received Communion

Acts 2:42

They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Communal Life (Acts 2:42 – 2:47)
Key Words: Apostles, Bread, Communion, Devotion, Gathering

“And it is this expression “of the breaking of the bread” that the first Christians will use to designate their Eucharistic assemblies.” Source: CCC 1329

#22 Assembly of the Faithful

1 Corinthians 11:23

For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on the night He was handed over, took bread.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11: 23-34)
Key Words: Assembly, Faithful, Sacrament

“The Eucharistic assembly (synaxis), because the Eucharist is celebrated amid the assembly of the faithful, the visible expression of the Church.” Source: CCC 1329

#23 The Mystery of the Eucharist

John 6:68

Simon Peter answered Him, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Words of Eternal Life (John 6:60-71)
Key Words: Eternal Life, Faith, Invitation, Mystery

“The Lord’s question echoes through the ages, as a loving invitation to discover that only He has “the words of eternal life” Source: CCC 1336

#24 Jesus Institutes the Eucharist

Luke 22:19-20

Then He took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.” And likewise, the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you.

Jesus Institutes the Eucharist at the Last Supper

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: The Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20)
Key Words: Apostles, Authority, Eucharist, Institution, Memorial

“And Jesus took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise, the cup after supper, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the New Covenant in my blood.” Source: CCC 1339

#25 The Apostles and Successors of Jesus

1 Corinthians 11:26

For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until He comes.

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Celebrate, Memorial, Proclaim, Obedience

“The command of Jesus…is directed at the liturgical celebration, by the apostles and their successors, of the memorial of Christ, of His life, of His death, of His Resurrection, and of His intercession in the presence of the Father.” Source: CCC 1341

#26 Communal Life in Christ

Acts 2:42

They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Communal Life (Acts 2:42-47)
Key Words: Apostles, Bread, Communal, Devotion, Fellowship

“Day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they partook of food with glad and generous hearts.” Source: CCC 1342

#27 The Church Faithful

Acts 2:46

Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart.

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Communal Life (Acts 2:42-47)
Key Words: Church, Faithful, Obedience

“From the beginning the Church has been faithful to the Lord’s command.” Source: CCC 1342

#28 Attendance of Sunday Mass

Acts 20:7

On the first day of the week when we gathered to break bread, Paul spoke to them because he was going to leave on the next day, and he kept on speaking until midnight.

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Eutychus Restored to Life (Acts 20:7-12)
Key Words: Eucharist, Gathering, Sunday

“It was above all on “the first day of the week,” Sunday, the day of Jesus’ resurrection, that the Christians met “to break bread.” Source: CCC 1343

#29 Celebration of the Mass

1 Corinthians 11:26

For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until He comes.

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Celebration, Cross, Mass, Proclaim

“From celebration to celebration, as they (the first Christians) proclaim the Paschal mystery of Jesus “until He comes,” the pilgrim People of God advances, “following the narrow way of the cross.” Source: CCC 1344

#30 Jesus Celebrates the Mass

Luke 24:29-30

But they urged Him, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over.” So He went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while He was with them at table, He took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them.

Catechism: The Mass of all ages
Passage: The Appearance on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
Key Words: Bread, Fellowship, Mass, Meal

“Walking with them He explained the Scriptures to them; sitting with them at table “He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them.” Source: CCC 1347

#31 Jesus is the Bread of Life

John 6:53

Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you do not have life within you.

Precious blood of Christ in chalice and eucharist hosts in ciborium

Catechism: “Take this and eat it, all of you”: communion
Passage: The Bread of Life Discourse (John 6:22 – 59)
Key Words: Invitation, Life, Sacrament

“The Lord addresses an invitation to us, urging us to receive Him in the sacrament of the Eucharist: “Truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.” Source: CCC 1384

#32 Faith of Our Fathers

Revelation 19:9

Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who have been called to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These words are true; they come from God.”

Angel of God Watching Over the Church with light filled clouds and sky

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: (Revelation 19:5-10)
Key Words: Called, Discipleship, Faith, Supper

“The Lord’s Supper, because of its connection with the supper which the Lord took with His disciples on the eve of His Passion.” Source: CCC 1329

#33 The Lord’s Supper

1 Corinthians 11:20

When you meet in one place, then, it is not to eat the Lord’s supper?

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: An Abuse at Corinth (1 Corinthians 11:17-22)
Key Words: Faith, Feast, Gathering, Supper

“The Lord’s Supper…because it anticipates the wedding feast of the Lamb in the heavenly Jerusalem.” Source: CCC 1329

#34 The Last Supper

Matthew 26:26

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: The Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-30)
Key Words: Bread, Faith, Rite

“The Breaking of Bread, because Jesus used this rite…above all at the Last Supper.” Source: CCC 1329

#35 The Authority of the Lord

1 Corinthians 11:24

And, after He had given thanks, broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Authority, Commandment, Faith

“As master of the table Jesus blessed and distributed the bread.” Source: CCC 1329

#36 The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass

Hebrews 13:15

Through Him then let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that confess His name.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Sacrifices to God (Hebrews 13:1-25)
Key Words: Atonement, Mass, Memorial, Praise, Sacrifice

“The terms holy sacrifice of the Mass, “sacrifice of praise,” spiritual sacrifice, pure and holy sacrifice are also used, since it completes and surpasses all the sacrifices of the Old Covenant.” Source: CCC 1330

#37 The Church’s Offering to God

1 Peter 2:5

And, like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Catechism: What is this sacrifice called?
Passage: God’s House and People (1 Peter 2:1-10)
Key Words: Church, Offering, Sacrifice

“The Holy Sacrifice, because it makes present the one sacrifice of Christ the Savior and includes the Church’s offering.” Source: CCC 1330

#38 The Different Names of the Eucharist

Psalms 116:13

I will raise the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: A Thanksgiving Psalm (Psalms 116:1-19)
Key Words: Sacrifice, Salvation, Spiritual, Praise

#39 The Sacred Signs of Bread and Wine

John 2:11

Jesus did this as the beginning of His signs in Cana in Galilee and so revealed His glory, and His disciples began to believe in Him.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-12)
Key Words: Hour, Glorification, Precious Blood, Wine

“The sign of water turned into wine at Cana already announces the Hour of Jesus’ glorification.” Source: CCC 1335

#40 The Fruit of the Vine

Mark 14:25

Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Lord’s Supper (Mark 14:22-26)
Key Words: Feast, Precious Blood, Signs, Wine

“The sign of the water turned into wine at Cana” makes manifest the fulfillment of the wedding feast in the Father’s kingdom, where the faithful will drink the new wine that has become the Blood of Christ.” Source: CCC 1335

#41 The Eucharist and Cross Are Stumbling Blocks

John 6:67

Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?”

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Words of Eternal Life (John 6:60-71)
Key Words: Cross, Eucharist, Faith, Mystery

“The Eucharist and the Cross are stumbling blocks. It is the same mystery and it never ceases to be an occasion of division. “Will you also go away?” Source: CCC 1336

#42 The Giving of His Body and Blood

Matthew 26:17

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said, “Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?”

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Preparations for the Passover (Matthew 26:17-19)
Key Words: Body, Blood, Jesus, Passover

“Jesus chose the time of Passover to fulfill what He had announced at Capernaum: giving His disciples His Body and His Blood.” Source: CCC 1339

#43 The Sacred Tradition of the Mass

Luke 24:35

The two recounted what had taken place on the way and how He was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

Catechism: The Mass of all ages
Passage: The Appearance on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
Key Words: Disciples, Faith, Liturgy of the Eucharist

“Is this not the same movement as the Paschal meal of the risen Jesus with His disciples?…He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them.” Source: CCC 1347

#44 Faith in the Word of God

1 Thessalonians 2:13

And for this reason we too give thanks to God unceasingly, that, in receiving the word of God from hearing us, you received not a human word but, as it truly is, the word of God, which is now at work in you who believe.

Catechism: The movement of the celebration
Passage: Further Thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16)
Key Words: Faith, Mass, Word, Thanksgiving

“The Liturgy of the Word includes “the writings of the prophets,” that is, the Old Testament, and “the memoirs of the apostles” (their letters and the Gospels). After the homily, which is an exhortation to accept this Word as what it truly is, the Word of God.” Source: CCC 1349

#45 The Memorial of Christ’s Passover

Exodus 13:3

Moses said to the people, “Remember this day on which you came out of Egypt, out of a house of slavery. For it was with a strong hand that the LORD brought you out from there. Nothing made with leaven may be eaten.

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: Consecration of First Born (Exodus 13:1-16)
Key Words: Eucharist, Memorial, Passover

“In the sense of Sacred Scripture, the memorial is not merely the recollection of past events but the proclamation of the mighty works wrought by God for men.” Source: CCC 1363

#46 A Sacrifice of Praise

Psalms 116:17

I will offer a sacrifice of praise and call on the name of the LORD.

Catechism: What is this sacrifice called?
Passage: A Psalm of Thanksgiving (Psalm 116)
Key Words: Praise, Offering, Sacrifice

“The Holy Sacrifice, because it makes present the one sacrifice of Christ the Savior and includes the Church’s offering. The terms holy sacrifice of the Mass, “sacrifice of praise,” spiritual sacrifice, pure and holy sacrifice are also used.” Source: CCC 1330

#47 Bread and Wine from the Creator

Psalms 104:13-15

You water the mountains from your chambers; from the fruit of your labor the earth abounds. You make the grass grow for the cattle and plants for people’s work to bring forth food from the earth, wine to gladden their hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread to sustain the human heart.

Blue sky with clouds, grass field, road, beautiful lake with mountains in the distance

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: A Hymn of Praise (Psalm 104)
Key Words: Bread, Creator, Holy Spirit

“The signs of bread and wine become, in a way surpassing understanding, the Body and Blood of Christ; they continue also to signify the goodness of creation. Thus in the Offertory we give thanks to the Creator for bread and wine.” Source: CCC 1333

#48 Christ’s Presence at the Mass

Matthew 18:20

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Catechism: The presence of Christ by the power of His word and the Holy Spirit
Passage: A Brother Who Sins (Matthew 18:15-20)
Key Words: Christ, Gathering, Liturgy of the Eucharist, Mass

“Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us,” is present in many ways to His Church: in His word, in His Church’s prayer, “where two or three are gathered in my name,” Source: CCC 1373

#49 The Real Presence of Christ in the Church

Matthew 25:34-36

Then the king will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’

Catechism: The presence of Christ by the power of His word and the Holy Spirit
Passage: The Judgment of the Nations (Matthew 25:31-46)
Key Words: Charity, Christ, Church, Eucharist, Real Presence

“Christ Jesus…is present in many ways to His Church: in His word, in His Church’s prayer, “where two or three are gathered in my name, “in the poor, the sick, and the imprisoned, in the sacraments of which He is the author, in the sacrifice of the Mass, and in the person of the minister. But “He is present . . . most especially in the Eucharistic species.” Source: CCC 1373

#50 Consecration of the Bread and Wine

Mark 14:22

While they were eating, He took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take it; this is my body.”

Catechism: The presence of Christ by the power of His word and the Holy Spirit
Passage: The Lord’s Supper (Mark 14:22-26)
Key Words: Bread, Consecration, Transubstantiation, Wine

“By the consecration of the bread and wine there takes place a change of the whole substance of the bread into the substance of the body of Christ our Lord and of the whole substance of the wine into the substance of His blood. This change the holy Catholic Church has fittingly and properly called transubstantiation.” Source: CCC 1376

#51 The Bread of Heaven and Cup of Salvation

John 6:51

I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”

Catechism: The movement of the celebration
Passage: The Bread of Life Discourse (John 6:22-59)
Key Words: Bread, Heaven, Life

“In the communion, preceded by the Lord’s prayer and the breaking of the bread, the faithful receive “the bread of heaven” and “the cup of salvation,” the body and blood of Christ who offered himself “for the life of the world.” Source: CCC 1355

#52 Eternal Life in the Eucharist

John 6:54

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day.

Catechism: In brief
Passage: The Bread of Life Discourse (John 6:22-59)
Key Words: Bread, Communion, Eternal Life, Eucharist

“Jesus said: “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; . . . he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life and . . . abides in me, and I in him” (Jn 6:51, 54, 56).” Source: CCC 1406

#53 Intimate Union with Christ

John 6:56

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him.

Catechism: The fruits of holy Communion
Passage: The Bread of Life Discourse (John 6:22-59)
Key Words: Christ, Holy Communion, Union

“Holy Communion augments our union with Christ. The principal fruit of receiving the Eucharist in Holy Communion is an intimate union with Christ Jesus. Indeed, the Lord said: “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him.” Source: CCC 1391

#54 Holy Catholic Life in the Eucharist

John 6:57

Just as the living Father sent me and I have life because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on me will have life because of me.

Catechism: The fruits of holy Communion
Passage: The Words of Eternal Life (John 6:60-71)
Key Words: Christ, Devotion, Eucharist, Life

“Life in Christ has its foundation in the Eucharistic banquet: “As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me.” Source: CCC 1391

#55 Acceptance of the Eucharist

John 6:60

Then many of His disciples who were listening said, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?”

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Words of Eternal Life (John 6:60-71)
Key Words: Acceptance, Discipleship, Eucharist, Faith

“The first announcement of the Eucharist divided the disciples, just as the announcement of the Passion scandalized them: “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” Source: CCC 1336

#56 Eucharist Leads us to Love and Serve

John 13:15

I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: The Washing of the Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-20)
Key Words: Discipleship, Love, Obedience, Serve

#57 Formed One in Christ

Acts 10:11a

Then Paul returned upstairs, broke the bread, and ate.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Eutychus Restored to Life (Acts 20:7-12)
Key Words: Bread, Christ, Communion, Unity

“The first Christians signified that all who eat the one broken bread, Christ, enter into communion with Him and form but one body in Him.” Source: CCC 1329

#58 One Body in Christ

Romans 12:5

So we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually parts of one another.

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: Many Parts in One Body (Romans 12:3-8)
Key Words: Body, Christ, Church, One, Unity

“We who are many are one Body in Christ” The Church continues to reproduce this sacrifice in the sacrament of the altar so well-known to believers wherein it is evident to them that in what she offers she herself is offered. The presence of Christ by the power of His word and the Holy Spirit.” Source: CCC 1372

#59 Christ Intercedes for us in the Eucharist

Romans 8:34

…It is Christ (Jesus) who died, rather, was raised, who also is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us.

Catechism: The presence of Christ by the power of His word and the Holy Spirit
Passage: God’s Indomitable Love in Christ (Romans 8:28-39)
Key Words: Christ, Eucharist, Intercedes, Real Presence

“Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us,” is present in many ways to His Church:…”He is present . . . most especially in the Eucharistic species.” Source: CCC 1373

#60 One Bread, One Body in Christ

1 Corinthians 10:16-17

The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because the loaf of bread is one, we, though many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Warning Against Idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14-22)
Key Words: Body, Bread, Christ, Eucharist, Unity

“By doing so they signified that all who eat the one broken bread, Christ, enter into communion with Him and form but one body in Him.” Source: CCC 1329

#61 Assembly of the Faithful for the Lord’s Supper

1 Corinthians 11:20

When you meet in one place, then, it is not to eat the Lord’s supper.

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: An abuse in Corinth (1 Corinthians 11:17-22)
Key Words: Assembly, Church, Eucharist, Faithful

“The Eucharist is celebrated amid the assembly of the faithful, the visible expression of the Church.” Source: CCC 1329

#62 Do This in Remembrance of Me

1 Corinthians 11:23-24

For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on the night He was handed over, took bread, and, after He had given thanks, broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Apostolic Tradition, Obedience, Remembrance

“And He took bread, and when he had given thanks He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after supper, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the New Covenant in my blood.” Source: CCC 1339

#63 The Eucharist Has Not Changed

1 Corinthians 11:24-25

And, after He had given thanks, broke it and said, “This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

Catechism: The Sacramental Sacrifice Thanksgiving, Memorial, Presence
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Apostolic Tradition, Eucharist, Mass

“If from the beginning Christians have celebrated the Eucharist and in a form whose substance has not changed despite the great diversity of times and liturgies, it is because we know ourselves to be bound by the command the Lord gave on the eve of His Passion: “Do this in remembrance of me.” Source: CCC 1356

#64 Receive the Eucharist Worthily

1 Corinthians 11:27-29

Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily will have to answer for the body and blood of the Lord. A person should examine himself, and so eat the bread and drink the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body, eats and drinks judgment on himself.

Catechism: “Take this and eat it, all of you”: communion
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Confession, Conscience, Eucharist, Worthily

“To respond to this invitation, we must prepare ourselves for so great and so holy a moment. St. Paul urges us to examine our conscience.” Source: CCC 1385

#65 The Eucharist Unites Us to Christ

1 Corinthians 12:13

For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit.

Catechism: The fruits of Holy Communion
Passage: One Body, Many Parts (1 Corinthians 12:12-26)
Key Words: Body, Church, Eucharist, Unity

“The unity of the Mystical Body: the Eucharist makes the Church. Those who receive the Eucharist are united more closely to Christ. ” Source: CCC 1396

#66 Anticipation of Eternal Life with Christ

1 Corinthians 15:28

When everything is subjected to Him, then the Son himself will (also) be subjected to the One who subjected everything to Him, so that God may be all in all.

Catechism: The Eucharist – Source and Summit of Ecclesial Life
Passage: Christ the Firstfruits (1 Corinthians 15:20-28)
Key Words: Anticipation, Eucharist, Eternal Life, United

“By the Eucharistic celebration we already unite ourselves with the heavenly liturgy and anticipate eternal life, when God will be all in all.” Source: CCC 1326

#67 The Tradition of the Giving of Alms At Mass

1 Corinthians 16:1

Now in regard to the collection or the holy ones, you also should do as I ordered the churches of Galatia.

Catechism: The movement of the celebration
Passage: The Collection (1 Corinthians 16:1-4)
Key Words: Alms, Collection, Christians, Mass

“From the very beginning Christians have brought, along with the bread and wine for the Eucharist, gifts to share with those in need.” Source: CCC 1351

#68 Maranatha: The Lord is Coming Soon

1 Corinthians 16:22

If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. Maranatha.

Catechism: The Eucharist – Pledge of the Glory to Come
Passage: Exhortation and Greetings (1 Corinthians 16:13-24)
Key Words: Anticipation, Eucharist, Glory, Love, Preparedness

“Whenever the Church celebrates the Eucharist she remembers Christ’s promise…in her prayer she calls for His coming: “Maranatha!” “Come, Lord Jesus!” Source: CCC 1403

#69 The Holy Sacrifice at the Altar

1 Corinthians 5:7

Clear out the old yeast, so that you may become a fresh batch of dough, inasmuch as you are unleavened. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed.

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: A Case of Incest (1 Corinthians 5:1-13)
Key Words: Altar, Christ, Cross, Pasch, Redemption, Sacrifice

“As often as the sacrifice of the Cross by which ‘Christ our Pasch has been sacrificed’ is celebrated on the altar, the work of our redemption is carried out.” Source: CCC 1366

#70 The Memorial Sacrifice of the Eucharist

Hebrews 7:24

But He, because He remains forever, has a priesthood that does not pass away.

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: Melchizedek, a Type of Christ (Hebrews 7:1-28)
Key Words: Eucharist, Memorial, Priesthood, Sacrifice

“But because His priesthood was not to end with His death, at the Last Supper “on the night when He was betrayed,” (Christ wanted) to leave to His beloved spouse the Church a visible sacrifice…” Source: CCC 1366

#71 The Mass Commemorates Christ’s Passover

Hebrews 7:25-27

Therefore, He is always able to save those who approach God through Him, since He lives forever to make intercession for them. It was fitting that we should have such a high priest: holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, higher than the heavens. He has no need, as did the high priests, to offer sacrifice day after day, first for His own sins and then for those of the people; He did that once for all when He offered Himself.

Catechism: The Commemoration of Christ’s Passover
Passage: Melchizedek, a Type of Christ (Hebrews 7:1-28)
Key Words: Christ, Commemoration, Eucharist, Mass, Passover, Sacrifice

“When the Church celebrates the Eucharist, she commemorates Christ’s Passover, and it is made present the sacrifice Christ offered once for all on the cross remains ever present.” Source: CCC 1364

#72 The Eucharist is a Sacrifice

Hebrews 7:27

He has no need, as did the high priests, to offer sacrifice day after day, first for His own sins and then for those of the people; He did that once for all when he offered Himself.

Jesus on the cross with shining sun and clouds

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: Melchizedek, a Type of Christ (Hebrews 7:1-28)
Key Words: Christ, Eucharist, Sacrifice

“The Eucharist is thus a sacrifice because it represents (makes present) the sacrifice of the cross, because it is its memorial and because it applies its fruit.” Source: CCC 1366

#73 The Eucharist Appeases God’s Wrath for Sin

Hebrews 9:27

Just as it is appointed that human beings die once, and after this the judgment.

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: The Sacrifice of Jesus ( Hebrews 9:11-28)
Key Words: Faith, Propitiatory, Sacrifice, Sin

“And since in this divine sacrifice which is celebrated in the Mass, the same Christ who offered Himself once in a bloody manner on the altar of the cross is contained and is offered in an unbloody manner. . . this sacrifice is truly propitiatory.” Source: CCC 1368

#74 The Eucharist Sacrifice is One with Christ

Hebrews 9:14

How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works to worship the living God.

Catechism: The sacrificial memorial of Christ and of His Body, the Church
Passage: The Sacrifice of Jesus ( Hebrews 9:11-28)
Key Words: Christ, Eucharist, One, Sacrifice

“The sacrifice of Christ and the sacrifice of the Eucharist are one single sacrifice: “The victim is one and the same: the same now offers through the ministry of priests, who then offered Himself on the cross; only the manner of offering is different.” Source: CCC 1367

#75 The Miracle of the Eucharist

Matthew 15:35-37a

Jesus ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then He took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied.

Catechism: The signs of bread and wine
Passage: The Feeding of the Four Thousand (Matthew 15:32-39)
Key Words: Blessings, Bread, Eucharist, Miracles

#76 The Eucharist Commits Us to Charity

Matthew 25:40

And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’

Catechism: The fruits of Holy Communion
Passage: The Judgment of the Nations (Matthew 25:31-46)
Key Words: Charity, Christ, Eucharist

“The Eucharist commits us to the poor. To receive in truth the Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognize Christ in the poorest, His brethren.” Source: CCC 1397

#77 The Eucharist Anticipates Heaven’s Glory

Matthew 26:29

I tell you, from now on I shall not drink this fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it with you new in the kingdom of my Father.”

Catechism: The Eucharist – Pledge of the Glory to Come
Passage: The Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-30)
Key Words: Fulfillment, Heaven, Kingdom of God, Passover

“At the Last Supper the Lord Himself directed His disciples’ attention toward the fulfillment of the Passover in the kingdom of God: “I tell you I shall not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” Source: CCC 1403

#78 Holy Communion Unites Us to Christ

1 Corinthians 10:16-17

Boat at sail in the sea with a large sun shining on it

Catechism: What is this sacrament called?
Passage: Warning against Idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14-22)
Key Words: Christ, Holy Communion, One, Sacrament, Unity

“Holy Communion, because by this sacrament we unite ourselves to Christ, who makes us sharers in His Body and Blood to form a single body.” Source: CCC 1331

#79 The Eucharist is an Act of Thanksgiving

Matthew 26:26

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to His disciples said, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

Catechism: What is this Sacrament Called?
Passage: The Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26-30)
Key Words: Eucharist, Sacrament, Thanksgiving

“The inexhaustible richness of this sacrament is expressed in the different names we give it. Each name evokes certain aspects of it. It is called: Eucharist, because it is an action of thanksgiving to God.” Source: CCC 1328

#80 Christ is the Bread of Life from Heaven

John 6:41b

“I am the bread that came down from heaven,”

Catechism: The institution of the Eucharist
Passage: The Bread of Life Discourse (John 6:22-59)
Key Words: Bread, Christ, Eucharist, Heaven

“St. John, for his part, reports the words of Jesus in the synagogue of Capernaum that prepare for the institution of the Eucharist: Christ calls himself the bread of life, come down from heaven.” Source: CCC 1338

#81 The Eucharist is a Remedy for Sin

1 Corinthians 11:26

For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until He comes.

Catechism: The fruits of Holy Communion
Passage: Tradition of the Institution (1 Corinthians 11:23-34)
Key Words: Forgiveness, Precious Blood, Sins

“As often as His blood is poured out, it is poured for the forgiveness of sins, I should always receive it, so that it may always forgive my sins. Because I always sin, I should always have a remedy.” Source: CCC 1393

#82 The Eucharist Fulfills the Call of Our Baptism

1 Corinthians 10:16-17

Catechism: The fruits of Holy Communion
Passage: Warning against Idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14-22)
Key Words: Baptism, Called, Eucharist, One Body, Unity

“In Baptism we have been called to form but one body. The Eucharist fulfills this call: …’Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread:’” Source: CCC 1396

I am the bread of life. John 6:48