Madonna Church

What is the Eucharist?

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. The term “Eucharist” originates from the Greek word eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving.

In the celebration of the Eucharist, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit and the instrumentality of the priest. The whole Christ is truly present -- body, blood, soul, and divinity -- under the appearances of bread and wine, the glorified Christ who rose from the dead. This is what the Church means when she speaks of the "Real Presence" of Christ in the Eucharist.

Resources to Learn More About the Eucharist

• THE MYSTERY OF THE EUCHARIST IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH
• The Real Presence Of Jesus

What is Eucharistic Adoration?

Eucharistic Adoration is when we spend time adoring the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist outside of the Mass. During this time, the Eucharistic Host is displayed in a monstrance on the altar allowing people to see and pray in the presence of Jesus Christ.   

Holy hour is the Roman Catholic devotional tradition of spending an hour in Eucharistic Adoration.

Reasons for Spending An Hour before the Blessed Sacrament

When you look upon the Sacred Host, you look upon Jesus, the Son of God.

24 Reasons for Spending a Holy Hour before the Blessed Sacrament