“Eucharist means ‘thanksgiving.’ In fact this is the term chosen by the early Christians to translate into Greek the Hebrew work for ‘blessing.'”

The Holy Eucharist refers to Christ’s body and blood present in the consecrated bread and wine. We give thanks to God for providing the Holy Eucharist to feed and nourish the soul.

The Eucharist is one of the Sacraments of Initiation (along with Baptism and Confirmation). Often called "Communion," the Eucharist is the very source of our entire lives as Catholics. We say that because the Eucharist really is the body, blood, soul, and divinity of Jesus Christ; it is not just a symbol. In the Sacrament, the very essence or substance of the bread and wine is completely changed. Because the Eucharist is Christ Himself, we say that the Eucharist is “the source and summit” of the Christian life.

You may also be interested in:

• Becoming Catholic (RCIA): For adults looking to receive the Eucharist for the first time.
• First Holy Communion: For children looking to receive the Eucharist for the first time.

Coordinators:
Fr. Mark Villano, CSP (Associate Pastor & RCIA Coordinator)
2nd Grade Teachers for students enrolled at Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic School
Michelle O'Donnell (Director of Religious Education for Children)

For more information or to join, please use the coordinators' contact information below or visit our webpages: