The Eucharist

The Blessed Eucharist has been part of the Church’s life from the earliest times. It is not seen simply as a shared meal or a symbol. Rather, it is a real encounter with Christ. Sharing the Eucharist has always marked the individual as a member of the Christian community.

The word ‘Eucharist’ refers both to the elements of bread and wine, and to the liturgy during which these are consecrated and distributed.

Teaching about the Eucharist in Catholic schools

The study of the Eucharist has a vitally important place in the Religious Education program of Catholic schools.

In their earliest years, the children are taught that, in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, we meet Jesus, sharing his presence and meal. In Years 3 and 4, Eucharist is presented as one of the three Sacraments (the others being Baptism and Confirmation) that mark our initiation into the Church.

Throughout school life, the instruction continues with students being taught the importance of maintaining their personal relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist, showing openness, reverence and prayerful reflection.

In the later years of secondary school, students are better able to understand that the Eucharist is the high point of the Christian life, its source and summit, both for individuals and the community.

What parents can do to encourage Eucharistic devotion

1. Show that you value Sunday Mass. The most powerful form of teaching is example. When children attend Mass with their family, they are starting a journey in faith that, we all hope, will last a lifetime.
   
2. Take the children to visit the Blessed Sacrament and encourage them to do so on their own, perhaps on their way to and from school.
   
3. Teach the children to be reverent to the Blessed Sacrament, making appropriate genuflections and bows. Help them to focus their attention during Mass, perhaps by providing a children’s Mass booklet or prayer book. Praise examples of the children’s attentiveness and participation.
   
4. Attend parish celebrations that mark the Year of the Eucharist: Benediction, Eucharistic processions and other celebrations.
   
5. When a member of the family is preparing for first celebration of Eucharist, make it a real family event with shared prayers, special messages and a family celebration.
   
6. Link Eucharistic devotions with concern for others – especially those who are poor or lonely. Lead the children in praying for them and in thinking of how the family might reach out to them.

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