What does the word Eucharist mean?

We hear and use the word Eucharist quite often – but what does it actually mean?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:

The inexhaustible richness of [the sacrament of the eucharist, i.e. the “Mass”] is expressed in the different names we give it. Each name evokes certain aspects of it. It is called: Eucharist, because it is an action of thanksgiving to God. The Greek words eucharistein and eulogein recall the Jewish blessings that proclaim — especially during a meal — God’s works: creation, redemption, and sanctification. (CCC 1328)

We can see that the word Eucharist means more than just sharing a Holy meal together during a certain part of the mass. It is a word that means ‘giving thanks to God'.

So when we say ‘First Eucharist’ we are saying this is the first time that I can fully participate in the Holy meal as a member of the Catholic community I belong and I am able to give thanks to God in this way. How exciting!!!

Year 4 will be exploring this in more detail next week at the Eucharist Retreat Day and Parent/ Child Formation evening. Thank you to those families who have participated in a Commitment Mass already. For those who haven’t yet, this coming weekend is the last weekend to come along.

Please continue to keep Year 4 and their families and teachers in your prayers as they prepare for the Sacrament of First Eucharist this term.