Theology of Eucharist
Of all the sacraments, the Eucharist, as the source and summit of the Church’s life, is celebrated most frequently. Through the expression of its faith in the Eucharist, the Church deepens that faith. As the saving events of the Paschal Mystery are recalled and celebrated in the Mass, Christ is truly present under the appearance of bread and wine that the people share in Holy Communion. Thus, the Eucharist is at once sacrifice, sacrament, and sacred meal. Communion with the Body and Blood of Christ increases the communicant’s union with the Lord, forgives venial sins, and preserves us from grave sins. Since receiving this sacrament strengthens the bonds of charity between the communicant and Christ, it also reinforces the unity of the Church as the Mystical Body of Christ. (CC 1416)
In the Eucharist, Christ’s sacrifice becomes that of the members of his Body. The faithfuls’ lives, praise, sufferings, prayer, and work unite with those of Christ and with his total offering and acquire a new value. Christ’s sacrifice present on the altar permits all generations of Christians to be united with his offering. (CC 1368)
Availability of the Eucharist
Because of its centrality in the church’s life, Our Lady’s Parish makes the Eucharist available each day. From Monday through Friday, the Eucharist is distributed during 6:30 a.m. Lauds, and, from Monday through Saturday, at the 9:00 a.m. Mass in the Crypt Chapel, as well as at all weekend Masses, and upon request, for those who are ill, in nursing homes, or homebound.
First Eucharist
For details on preparation for First Eucharist, click here.