Eucharist

The Eucharist: Source and Summit of the Christian Life


In this sacred sacrament, we receive the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself on the Cross for our salvation. The Eucharist is not just a symbol, but a real and living encounter with the Risen Lord, who comes to nourish us with His very self.


The celebration of the Mass is where the Eucharist is made present. At every Mass, the Church obeys Jesus’ command at the Last Supper: “Do this in memory of me” (Luke 22:19). Through the words of consecration spoken by the priest and the power of the Holy Spirit, the bread and wine become Christ Himself. The Mass unites heaven and earth as we are drawn into the Paschal Mystery—Christ’s Passion, death, and Resurrection.


Receiving the Eucharist draws us into deeper communion with God and with one another. It strengthens us to live as disciples, nourished by grace and sent forth to bring Christ’s love to the world.


Who Can Receive the Eucharist?


The Eucharist is a sacred gift, offered to all baptized Catholics, properly prepared, who are in a state of grace—that is, free from mortal sin. To receive Holy Communion worthily, we must approach with faith, reverence, and a heart open to God's grace.


The Church teaches that those preparing to receive the Eucharist should:

  • Be baptized and believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
  • Have observed the Eucharistic fast (refraining from food and drink, except water and medicine, for at least one hour before receiving).
  • Be in a state of grace—having confessed any serious (mortal) sin through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.


Receiving the Eucharist worthily deepens our union with Christ and the Church, strengthens us against sin, and commits us to love and serve others as Christ has loved us.


Adults who are interested in becoming Catholic or who were baptized Catholic but have not yet received First Communion are invited to contact Kelly Hernandez in the Adult Faith Formation Office at khernandez@stfrancisa2.org.


Parents of baptized children who wish to prepare for First Holy Communion can find details and registration information on the First Communion page.