In the Catholic view of Holy Week, Holy Thursday is considered to be the institution of the Eucharist/Holy Communion. In this Catholic Central episode, Eucharist 101, we go behind the bread and the wine to see what it’s all about.
Catholics call the Eucharist the source and summit of the Christian life. But what does that mean? What do Catholics REALLY believe about the Eucharist? Why is it important?
Diving Deeper
- Kai and Libby talked about the Last Supper and how important it and its meaning are to us as Catholics. What was the most interesting or important meal you have ever been to? Why was it so interesting/important?
- This episode talks about a sacrifice and memorial meal that leads us from slavery to freedom. Do you think our current world is enslaved to anything? If yes, what type of things? If no, give reasons why. What tangible things can we do to break away from those things and enter more into freedom?
- Do you struggle with truly believing in Jesus’ Real Presence in the Eucharist? Why or why not?
Activity
Take some time to go for a hike. When you get to the top, journal or reflect upon these questions: What was your experience like? What was the hardest part about getting to the top? The best part?
Reflection by Father Vince Kuna, C.S.C.
The Eucharist is the source and summit for every aspect of our faith. Eucharist fills us and sends us to be Christ in our place in the world, and it also welcomes us back after a long week of work and school to be nourished. In times where physical reception of the Eucharist is not possible (a Catholic is under the weather, traveling on a Sunday, the weather inclement or some other extraordinary event) how might a spiritual Eucharist remind us that the sacrament is the source and summit for the contemplative life? So, bring to mind the last time you received the Eucharist. Contemplate also, with anticipation and gratitude the next time you will.
