The Eucharist is the central sacrament of the Catholic faith. It is the source and summit of Christian life and was instituted as a Sacrament by Jesus at the Last Supper. During the Last Supper, “…he took bread, and when he had given thanks he broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me’; and likewise the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup which is poured out for you is the New Covenant in my blood.” (Lk 22:7-20; Cf. Mt 26:17-29; Mk 14:12-25; 1 Cor 11:23-26.).

Also referred to as Mass, the celebration of the Eucharist is the very height of Christian prayer. Catholics believe in the “true presence” of Jesus in the Eucharist, that there, under the appearance of bread and wine, He is present body, blood, soul and divinity. The Eucharist nourishes the soul, strengthens the bond with Christ, and preserves the soul from sin. It also increases sanctifying grace and deepens communion with the Church.