Catholic Eucharist: Key Concepts, Symbols, and Rituals

Eucharist

Sacrament where Catholics receive the Body and Blood of Jesus.

Holy Communion

Also called Holy Communion, The Lord's Supper, or The Mass.

Real Presence

Jesus is truly present in the bread and wine.

Consecration

Priest says Jesus' words → bread + wine become His Body & Blood.

Transubstantiation

Bread & wine change substance into Jesus' Body & Blood.

Communion

Receiving the Eucharist.

Tabernacle

Where consecrated hosts are kept.

Host

The consecrated bread.

Adoration

Praying/worshiping Jesus present in the Eucharist.

Monstrance

Vessel used to display the consecrated host for adoration.

Passover

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

Last Supper

Final meal Jesus had with His disciples; started the Eucharist.

The Breaking of the Bread

Another name for the Eucharist.

The Memorial

Another name for the Eucharist.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass

Another name for the Eucharist.

The Real Presence

Another name for the Eucharist.

The Eucharistic Assembly

Another name for the Eucharist.

One-hour fast

Requirement before receiving the Eucharist.

Effects of the Eucharist

Strengthens connection with Jesus, forgives venial sins, gives spiritual strength to live faithfully, unites the Church community.

Bread

Symbol of Jesus' Body.

Wine

Symbol of Jesus' Blood.

Altar

Table of sacrifice + meal.

Chalice

Cup holding Jesus' Blood.

Unleavened bread

Used in Catholic Mass.