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.

As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion. We are encouraged to receive Communion devoutly and frequently. In order to be properly disposed to receive Communion, participants should not be conscious of grave sin and normally should have fasted for one hour.

How to Register for First Communion

For children: Parents can register their children to receive their first Holy Communion by enrolling in the religious education program. For questions, please contact Tracey Hann, Director of Religious Education at tracey.hann@stachurchbloomfield.org

For adults: If interested in learning more about the RCC or converting to Catholicism, please contact us at ocia@stachurchbloomfield.org or click here to visit the Order of Christian Initiation ministry page.

More resources to learn about the Eucharist:

• What is the Eucharist?

• Guidelines for the Reception of Communion

• The Reception of Holy Communion at Mass

• Liturgy of the Eucharist