Sacraments 201: Eucharist (what we believe)

Summary

The script delves into the Catholic belief of transubstantiation during Mass, where bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ. It clarifies misconceptions about reenacting the Last Supper and explains the necessity of unleavened bread and wine for the Eucharist. It addresses concerns about receiving Communion with dietary restrictions or after committing sins, emphasizing the sacrament's role in reconciling with God and the community. The script also discusses why non-Catholics typically don't partake in Communion, highlighting the importance of being in communion with the Church for participation.

Takeaways

• 🍞 The process of the bread and wine becoming the body and blood of Christ is called transubstantiation, which is a change at the most fundamental level, not just a change in appearance.
• 🙏 During Mass, Catholics believe that the substance of the bread and wine is changed into the body, blood, soul, and divinity of Jesus Christ through God's response to prayers.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 The Eucharist is more than a reenactment of the Last Supper; it is a real encounter with Christ's sacrifice on the cross, where Christ gives us his body and blood for the forgiveness of sins.
• 📸 The Mass is a way to make past events present and real, similar to how a photograph can transport you back to a specific moment in time.
• ✝️ The sacrifice of Christ on the cross is a one-time event, but the Eucharist allows us to re-experience this sacrifice and be more aware of the sacrifices we are called to make.
• 🌾 For the Eucharist to be valid, the Church teaches that only unleavened bread made from wheat and wine made from grapes can be used, with no substitutions allowed.
• 🍞🥂 If you have dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance, the Church offers options like low-gluten hosts or receiving from the cup only.
• 🙅‍♂️ Non-Catholics are not typically allowed to receive Communion because the Church believes that one must be in full communion with the Church to partake in the sacrament.
• 💔 If you have committed a mortal sin, you should seek reconciliation through the sacrament of reconciliation before receiving Communion.
• 🙏‍♀️ Venial sins do not prevent one from receiving Communion, as they are absolved by asking God for forgiveness.
• 🔝 The Eucharist is considered the source and summit of the Christian life, with all other sacraments, ministries, and outreach activities being oriented toward it.

Q & A

What is transubstantiation?

Transubstantiation is the theological term for the change in the substance of the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ during Mass, while their outward appearances remain the same.

How does the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ?

The bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ through the process of transubstantiation, which occurs in response to prayers during Mass.

Is the appearance of the bread and wine changed during transubstantiation?

No, the appearance of the bread and wine does not change during transubstantiation; only their substance is altered at a fundamental level.

What is the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic belief?

The Eucharist is considered the source and summit of the Christian life, representing the real presence of Christ's body and blood, and is essential for Catholic worship.

Is the Mass a reenactment of the Last Supper?

While the Mass includes elements of the Last Supper, it is more than a reenactment; it is a reencounter with Christ on the Cross and a celebration of his sacrifice.

What is the role of the Eucharistic prayers in the Mass?

The Eucharistic prayers are central to the Mass, as they include Jesus's words from the Last Supper and are a means of giving thanks for Christ's sacrifice.

Can the elements used in the Eucharist be substituted with other items?

According to Catholic teaching, only unleavened bread made of wheat and wine made from grapes can be used for the Eucharist, with no substitutions allowed.

What options are available for individuals who are gluten intolerant or cannot consume alcohol?

For gluten intolerance, low-gluten hosts may be offered, and for those who cannot consume alcohol, receiving from the cup only is an option. It is advisable to speak with the priest before Mass.

Why are only Catholics allowed to receive Communion?

The Catholic Church believes that one must be in communion with God, the Church, and others to partake in the Eucharist, which is a sign of unity in faith and worship.

What is the difference between venial and mortal sins in relation to receiving Communion?

Venial sins do not prevent one from receiving Communion, as they are absolved by asking God for forgiveness. Mortal sins, however, require reconciliation through the sacrament of reconciliation before receiving Communion.

How does the act of receiving Communion impact a Catholic's spiritual life?

Receiving Communion reaffirms one's unity with the body of Christ, sharing in His divinity, and is seen as empowering individuals to live and love as Christ did.