Theology of Eucharist

Of all the sacraments, the Eucharist is the one that is celebrated most often.  The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Church’s life.  Through the expression of its faith in the Eucharist, the Church deepens that faith.  In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present as the saving events of the Paschal Mystery are recalled and celebrated.  Christ is truly present as well under the appearances of bread and wine that the people share in Holy Communion.  Thus, the Eucharist is at once a sacrifice, a sacrament, and a 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, the sacrifice of Christ becomes also the sacrifice of the members of his Body.  The lives of the faithful, their praise, sufferings, prayer, and work are united with those of Christ and with his total offering and so acquire a new value.  Christ’s sacrifice present on the altar makes it possible for all generations of Christians to be united with his offering.  (CC 1368)