The word Eucharist comes from the Greek word eucharistein, meaning “thanksgiving.” It is the memorial sacrifice by which bread and wine is changed into the body and blood of Christ. The eucharistic host still looks and tastes like bread and the precious blood still looks and tastes like wine. Catholics believe that the bread and wine have not transformed, because the form or appearance of the bread and wine has not changed. Instead, it is the substance of the bread and wine that has changed, and so Catholics teach that during consecration the bread and wine have been transubstantiated into the body and blood of Christ.
For enrolment in the parish programmes for First Holy Communion, please contact Liz or leave a message at 09 478 4565 or email: liz@ecbcatholic.org.nz