Theology of the Eucharist

1. Significance of the Eucharist

1.1. Different Dimensions of the mystery of the Eucharist through various names

1.1.1. 'Lord's Supper' or 'Breaking of the Bread'

1.1.1.1. Linking it to the Last Supper

1.1.2. 'Anamnesis' or 'Commemoration'

1.1.2.1. Representing what is recalled

1.1.3. 'Communion

1.1.3.1. Emphasis on the unity of all Christians

1.1.4. 'Eucharist'

1.1.4.1. "Thanksgiving"

1.1.5. 'Sacrifice' (Cyprian, Augustine) or the 'offering' (Ambrose)

1.1.5.1. A gift received from God and also approaching God

1.1.6. 'Synaxis'

1.1.6.1. "Gathering"

2. Teaching Children about the Eucharist

2.1. Must be gradual

2.2. Suitable for the children's ability

2.3. Relative to the Eucharistic Celebration to the whole of Christian Life

2.4. Should be taught through the principle rites and prayers of the celebration itself

2.5. Preparing them for First Communion may assist in entering into and experiencing the eucharistic mystery

2.6. Enabling children to experience and understand the whole of the Eucharist in all dimensions

3. Vatican Council II

3.1. "a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a paschal banquet in which Christ is consumed, the mind filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us"

4. We Celebrate the Eucharist Program