The Sacrament of the Eucharist
The Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is central to our Catholic faith. The Holy Eucharist refers to Christ's Body and Blood present in the consecrated host on the altar. What we receive in its external appearance looks like bread and tastes like bread is actually Jesus. Transubstantiation is the theological term to describe the complete change of the substance of Jesus Christ into the external appearance of bread.
By receiving the Holy Eucharist, we increase and deepen our relationship with Jesus, reinforce our relationship with other faithful and the Church, and prepare us for ultimate salvation. As Catholics, we receive the Holy Eucharist every time we attend Mass.
Preparation for the Reception of Holy Communion
A. The children learn the following in the virtual classroom at home:
- The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
- Preparation of their hearts to welcome Jesus
- Bowing in reverence to the Lord as they approach to receive the Body of Christ
- Receiving Jesus either by the hand or on their tongue
- Knowing what to do right after receiving Communion
B. The parents do the following:
- Reinforcing their children’s learning in class
- Going as a family to Mass every Sunday and holy days of obligation
- Praying with their children at mealtime and before going to bed
- Serving as models to their children in kindness, generosity, and service to others