Some teachings on the Eucharist

The Eucharist is a memorial in the sense that it makes present and actual the sacrifice which Christ offered to the Father on the cross, once and for all on behalf of humankind. The sacrificial character of the Holy Eucharist is manifested in the very words of institution “This is my body which is given for you,” and “This the New Covenant in my Blood that will be shared for you” (Luke 22:19-20). The sacrifice of the cross and the sacrifice of the Eucharist are one and the same sacrifice. The Priest and the victim are the same; only the manner of offering is different: in a bloody manner on the cross, in an unblody manner in the Eucharist.  

In what way does the church participate in the Eucharist sacrifice?

In the Eucharist the sacrifice of Christ becomes also the sacrifice of the members of his body. The lives of the faithful, their praise, their suffering, their prayers, their work, are united to those of Christ. In as much as it is a sacrifice, the Eucharist is likewise offered for all the faithful, living and dead, in reparation for the sins of all and to obtain spiritual and temporal benefits from God. The church in heaven is also united to the offering of Christ.

How is Christ present in the Eucharist?

Jesus Christ is present in the Eucharist in a unique and incomparable way. He is present in a true, real and substantial way, with his Body and his blood, with his soul and his Divinity. In the Eucharist, therefore, there is present in a sacramental way that is, under the Eucharistic species of bread and wine, Christ whole and entire, God and man.

What are the names for this sacrament?

The unfathomable richness of this sacrament is expressed in different names which evokes its various aspects. The most common names are the Eucharist, Holy Mass, the Lord’s Supper, the Breaking of the Bread, the Eucharistic celebration, the memorial of the passion, death and Resurrection of the Lord, the Holy Sacrifice, the Holy and Divine Liturgy, the Sacred Mysteries, the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar, and Holy Communion.

(Taken from the Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, nos. 275, 280-282)