Eucharist

Biblical Foundations

The Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion, is rooted in apostolic tradition. In the New Testament, early Christians are described as obeying Christ’s command to “do this in remembrance of me” through the sharing of bread and wine (1 Corinthians 11:20-27; Acts 2:42). The Greek term eucharistia, meaning “thanksgiving,” was used from the second century onwards to describe this rite instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper.

Importance in Worship

For many Christians, the Eucharist is central to their worship:

• Roman Catholics: The Mass is celebrated daily, though most attend weekly. The Eucharist is considered a sacrament, an outward sign of an inward grace, effectively transmitting God’s presence to the believer.

• Participation in the Eucharist unites Christians with Jesus himself in a profound, mysterious way, reaffirming their relationship with God and the Church.

Theological Interpretations

Transubstantiation

Formally defined at the Fourth Lateran Council (1215), transubstantiation is the belief that after consecration, the substance of bread and wine changes into the body and blood of Christ, even though the accidents (appearance, taste) remain the same.

Transignification

Proposed by Edward Schillebeeckx, this theory emphasizes the symbolic significance of the bread and wine. Physically unchanged, the elements gain new meaning, representing Christ sacramentally and connecting believers to the Last Supper and its redemptive events.

Transfinalization

Proposed by Karl Rahner, transfinalization suggests that the purpose or finality of the bread and wine is transformed, rather than the substance itself. They acquire a sacred function, helping believers focus on the mystery of Christ’s love and sacrifice.

Symbolism and Covenant

Across theological interpretations, the Eucharist is universally understood as a symbol of the New Covenant:

• The Old Covenant, given to Israel, commemorated God freeing His people from slavery in Egypt.

• The New Covenant, established through Jesus’ death and resurrection, signifies freedom from sin and the promise of eternal life.

• Participating in the Eucharist reinforces this covenant, connecting believers spiritually to Christ’s sacrifice and the salvation it brings.

Summary

The Eucharist remains a core practice of Christian worship, embodying thanksgiving, communion with Christ, and the renewal of the covenant. Whether understood through transubstantiation, transignification, or transfinalization, its central purpose is to remind believers of God’s redemptive love and unite them in faith and community.