Eucharist

Scriptural Basis

• Matthew 26: 26-30
• The Last Supper- first distribution of communion by Jesus to his disciples
• John 6: 50-51
• The Bread of Life Discourse- describes the unity and togetherness that is
• established among Catholics by receiving the eucharist

History

• First Eucharist: The Last Supper
• 20th Century: Eucharist more acknowledged in Catholicism
• 2nd Vatican Council: Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy
• ^^we believe in the Paschal Mystery; transubstantiation
• Came to be known as the sign and source of our unity

Body Blood Soul Divinity

Symbols: Bread + Wine

• Peace; joy
• Sharing in a common belief
• Solidarity, one body; community
• Jesus' body and blood

Rite of the Eucharist

• Preparation of the gifts; setting up of the altar
• Bread and wine are presented
• Celebrant blesses gifts, and places them on the altar
• Monetary donations from congregation are presented at the altar
• Eucharistic prayer over offerings

Rite of the Eucharist (cont.)

• communion rite follows eucharistic prayer
• Eucharistic ministers distribute communion
• Prayer and blessing of congregation concludes the Eucharist
• ^^asks that the Eucharist's benefits stay with reciipents

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Connections to our life

• Pope Francis: Ways Eucharist improves life
• 1. Affects the way that people relate to each other
• 2. Forgiveness and a call to forgive is experienced 
• 3. Nourishes a community through the word and life of Christ

Eucharist + Social Justice

• "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."
• -Catechism of the Catholic Church 1397