REAL PRESENCE OF THE BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

What is the reality and power of the sacrament of the body and blood of Jesus Christ? The reality is the bread and wine become the actual, literal body and blood of Jesus Christ through a process called transubstantiation. Trans- means movement, substance- means substance of bread and wine, and iation- is the action that takes place. The Eucharist is not just a symbol, but the actual glorified, living Christ, present under the appearance of bread and wine. Christ is uniquely present in the consecrated elements. The power of the sacrament, by sharing his body and blood, we are united to Christ, becoming part of the single body of Christ. It is a spiritual food that nourishes faith and provides life. It is an antidote to sin; it frees believers from daily venial sins and preserves them from grievous ones. Believers partake in Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, sharing the redemptive benefits (called the sacrifice of the Mass). The power of the sacrament calls believers to recognize and serve Christ in the poor, strengthening our commitment to charity. What do you see in the sacrament, how does it make you feel?