Comprehensive Catholic Eucharist and Mass Study Guide

Eucharist

The sacrament where Catholics receive the Body and Blood of Jesus.

Real Presence

The belief that Jesus is truly present in the consecrated bread and wine.

Consecration

The moment in Mass when the priest's words change the bread and wine into Jesus' Body and Blood.

Transubstantiation

The change of the substance of bread and wine into Jesus' Body and Blood while appearances stay the same.

Holy Communion

Receiving the Eucharist.

Host

The consecrated bread.

Tabernacle

The place where the consecrated hosts are kept after Mass.

Altar

The table of sacrifice and meal used during Mass.

Chalice

The cup that holds the Blood of Christ.

Passover

Jewish feast remembering God saving the Israelites; the Last Supper was a Passover meal.

Last Supper

The final meal Jesus shared with His disciples where He instituted the Eucharist.

Adoration

Praying and worshiping Jesus present in the Eucharist.

Monstrance

The golden vessel used to display the Eucharist during adoration.

Different Names for the Eucharist

Holy Communion; The Lord's Supper; The Breaking of the Bread; The Memorial; The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass; The Real Presence; The Eucharistic Assembly.

Rules for Receiving the Eucharist

You must be Catholic, baptized, in a state of grace, and fast for one hour before receiving.

Who Can Consecrate the Eucharist

Only ordained ministers (priests and bishops).

Bread Used in the Eucharist

Catholics use unleavened bread.

Effects of the Eucharist

Unites you with Jesus, forgives venial sins, gives spiritual strength, and unites the Church community.

Power of the Eucharist

Gives grace, strengthens faith, and helps avoid sin.

Eucharist as Sacrifice

Makes Jesus' sacrifice on the cross present again.

Eucharist as Meal

Spiritual nourishment that unites believers with Jesus.

Two Parts of the Mass

Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Liturgy of the Eucharist Includes

Preparation of gifts, consecration, and communion.

Reminder (Meaning in Eucharist)

The Eucharist reminds us of Jesus' sacrifice and the Last Supper.

Why the Eucharist Matters

It is the 'source and summit' of Christian life and the center of Catholic worship.