Eucharist
The Eucharist
The Catholic Church teaches that when the bread and wine are consecrated in the Eucharist, they cease to be bread and wine, and become instead the Most Precious Body and Blood of Christ. The empirical appearances are not changed, but the reality is.
The consecration of the bread (known as the host) and wine represents the separation of Jesus’ body from his blood at Calvary. However, since he has risen, the Church teaches that his body and blood can no longer be truly separated. Where one is, the other must be. Therefore, although the priest (or minister) says, “The body of Christ”, when administering the host, and, “The blood of Christ”, when presenting the chalice, the communicant who receives either one receives Christ, whole and entire.
First Communion
This sacrament may be celebrated by any person age seven or older, and requires two years of participation in Religious Education.
First Eucharist may be received by anyone seven years or older, and Confirmation by anyone from seventh grade or after. Volunteers share their Catholic faith with children preparing to receive these sacraments.
If you would like more information on this program or are interested in volunteering please contact our Director of Religious Education at (212) 265-3495, ext. 341.