The Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. The other sacraments, and other ministries and works of Catholic people, are bound together and oriented toward the Holy Eucharist.
At Mass, the bread and wine is changed into the total Jesus Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity. Holy Communion unites us intimately with Jesus Christ, separates us from sin, and unites with other members of the Catholic Church. Catholics normally receive the Holy Eucharist at Mass unless they need to go to Reconciliation to seek forgiveness of their serious sins.
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Sacrament of the Eucharist
What would make us worthy to receive Holy Communion? Simple answer: nothing. We are never worthy of so great a gift. But here’s the exciting part: God offers us this great sacrament freely. So why...
The Meaning of the Eucharist
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5 Things to try if you find the homily boring
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Common Questions - Holy Eucharist
No. Only properly disposed Catholics may receive Holy Communion. The word communion can be seen as “comm-union”, in other words “union with”. Reception of Communion signifies this union with Jesus Christ as well as an expression of unity and belief in the Catholic Church and all that she teaches.
If you are not Catholic but feel drawn to the Catholic Church and the Eucharist, we invite you to visit our Becoming Catholic page
Catholics receive the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ every time they receive Holy Communion. We believe that Jesus is truly present in the consecrated species of bread and wine. Communion must then be received with the greatest reverence and worship.
The Church recommends fasting for at least an hour prior to receiving the Eucharist.
If you are aware of a mortal sin, the Church recommends going to Confession prior to receiving Jesus in the Eucharist.
Catholics are obliged to attend Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of obligation. The holy days of obligation are: December 25 (Christmas), January 1 (the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God), 40 days after Easter Sunday (the solemnity of the Ascension), August 15 (the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary), November 1 (the solemnity of All Saints), December 8 (the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception). This obligation is meant to be seen in light of love and devotion to Jesus, responding to his invitation out of obedience not mere duty.