Eucharist FAQs

What is the Eucharist? 

Catholics believe the Eucharist truly is the body and blood of Christ under the appearance of bread and wine.  We refer to this as the “Real Presence” of Christ.  This transformation or “transubstantiation” is accomplished by the priest through the power of the Holy Spirit.   We do this in obedience to the command of Jesus at the Last Supper to “Do this in remembrance of me.”

 
Can a non-Catholic receive the Eucharist? 

Sharing the Eucharist with those of other faiths is not permitted except under very special circumstances because most other faith traditions do not believe what Catholics believe about the Eucharist. 

 
Do I or my child have to receive from the cup?

Catholics believe that the wine presented at Mass is changed by the power of the Holy Spirit into the Blood of Christ.   Receiving the Precious Blood helps us recall the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The Chuch teaches that Jesus is completely and equally present in both species of the Eucharist, so nothing is lacking if you receive only one.