This day in the Church is SO AMAZING!! Holy Thursday is the day that Christ gave us His own body and blood in the Eucharist. As Catholics, we believe that ordinary bread and wine are completely changed into Christ's body, blood, soul, and divinity, at the moment of consecration during Mass. We believe in what is called Transubstantiation, which means, change of substance. The bread and wine are literally transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ, the only thing that remains is the appearance of bread and wine. No other religion, Christian or non- Christian has the full sacrament of the Eucharist. In no other religion does bread and wine become the flesh and blood of Christ. Contrary to other Christian's beliefs, the Church believes that in the Eucharist, Christ is truly present, and the bread and wine are actually changed into his body and blood because that is what Christ told us and it is not our place to twist God's words so we can better understand them. We don't celebrate the sacrament of the Eucharist to commemorate Christ's offering to us at the last supper, we actually do celebrate it! The bread and wine are not just a symbol of Christ's giving us his body and blood, they ARE his body and blood! We, as Catholics, are so blessed and privileged to be able to participate in this sacrament. Receiving the Eucharist gives us a glimpse into the Heavenly Banquet where we will fully be united with God once again. Maybe you have some questions about the Eucharist. You might be new to the faith, or you're a cradle Catholic who's never really thought about it before. I know it's hard to grasp. We, as humans, can never fully understand the mystery of Christ fully incarnate in the Holy Eucharist. Below are some resources that answer some commonly asked questions about Christ's teaching on the Eucharist. May God bless you on this Holy Thursday as you contemplate what Christ has done for us in giving us His body and blood.
Why are Catholic Priests the only ones who can celebrate Masses and consecrate Bread and Wine?
This site answers many questions about the Eucharist (and it's also a fantastic resource for all things saints, sacraments and prayers.) Check it out!
If we are really eating and drinking the Body and blood of Christ, then isn't that cannibalism?
Why do Catholics adore the Eucharist in Eucharistic adoration?
What is Eucharistic Adoration?- This PDF gives the what's and why's of Eucharistic Adoration.
Let me know in the comments section if you have any questions that weren't covered on these websites and I'll try to find an answer!
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