The Holy Eucharist completes Christian initiation. Those who have been raised to the dignity of the royal priesthood by Baptism and configured more deeply to Christ by confirmation participate with the whole community in the Lord’s own sacrifice by means of the Eucharist (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1322).
“At the Last Supper, on the night he was betrayed, our savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood. This he did in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross throughout the ages until he should come again.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can receive the Eucharist?
For Catholics: As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion. We are encouraged to receive Communion devoutly and frequently. In order to be properly disposed to receive Communion, participants should not be conscious of grave sin and normally should have fasted for one hour.
For Fellow Christians: We welcome our fellow Christians to this celebration of the Eucharist as our brothers and sisters. We pray that our common baptism and the action of the Holy Spirit in this Eucharist will draw us closer to one another.
How often should I receive the Eucharist?
As frequently as possible! The Church prescribes that Catholics receive the Eucharist at least once per year (during Easter) but recommends that Catholics partake of the sacrament as frequently as possible.
What are the effects of receiving the Eucharist?
- Our relationship (union) with Christ is deepened
- The supernatural, divine life, in the recipient is increased
- The recipient is separated from sin
- The recipient is united more firmly to other members of the Church
What is the “Eucharistic fast” and how long is it?
The Eucharistic fast is a one hour fast before receiving Holy Communion to observe a period of reflecting and spiritual hunger for Our Lord. Only medicine and water are allowed before hand.
References
- Catechism of the Catholic Church – 1340: “By celebrating the Last Supper with his apostles in the course of the Passover meal, Jesus gave the Jewish Passover its definitive meaning.”
- Canon Law 897 – Title III: “The most venerable sacrament is the blessed Eucharist, in which Christ the Lord himself is contained, offered and received.”