Definition: The Eucharist is another name for Holy Communion. The term comes from the Greek by way of Latin, and it means "thanksgiving." It is used in three ways: first, to refer to the Real Presence of Christ; second, to refer to Christ's continuing action as High Priest (He "gave thanks" at the Last Supper, which began the consecration of the bread and wine); and third, to refer to the Sacrament of Holy Communion itself.
Many people refer to the Mass as "the Eucharist," but such a use is incorrect. The Mass is made up of two parts: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The Mass is more than simply the Sacrament of Holy Communion.
Pronunciation: YOO-ca-rist
Examples:
"In the Sacrament of Holy Communion, the priest consecrates the bread and wine, which becomes the Eucharist."
