Teaching the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist

Various studies in recent years have revealed a disturbing fact: less than half of people who identify as Catholics believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ. The Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist is a central tenet of our Catholic faith. We believe that, in the Eucharist, Jesus Christ is truly though mysteriously present to us under the appearance of ordinary bread and wine.

Is this a difficult concept to teach to children (and adults)? Yes and no. On the one hand, it is challenging to teach a mystery, perhaps because, in reality, we don't teach mystery; we invite others to encounter it and experience it. Certainly, we catechists are responsible for predisposing others to receive the sacrament, ensuring that they have a concept and understanding of what they are about to receive. However, we don't teach the Real Presence of the Eucharist like we teach a mathematical or scientific theorem. Rather, we prepare people to see with their hearts.

One of the best examples I ever heard of someone doing this effectively was the woman who introduced my mom to the Eucharist when my mom was 13 years old. Mom grew up under very difficult circumstances, and her parents never had her baptized or brought to the sacraments. Her best friend at the time, however, was a very devout Catholic, and Mom tagged along with her (Ramona) wherever she went—including church. My mom grew curious about the Communion Rite and asked Ramona's mom, "What do you go up there to get?" Ramona's mom broke into a big smile and said, "Oh, Babe (my mom's nickname), the greatest gift you can ever dream of receiving!"

That's it!

She didn't offer any theology; that came later when my mom attended "Baptism classes." However, she predisposed my mom to enter into a mysterious encounter through which she would receive the greatest gift imaginable—the very presence of God within us!

This is what is at the heart of teaching the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist!

Talking to Parents

I tell parents all the time that practicing real presence is one of the highest demands of parenting. As a parent, you make every effort to be truly present to your child, especially for special occasions such as his or her birthday, first day of school, graduation, recitals, and big games. Likewise, you strive to be truly present to them when they are in need—feeling sad, hurt, frightened, lonely, or left out. Children want to know that their parents are there for them and parents, in turn, strive to practice real presence.

We all experience moments—highs and lows—when we don’t want to be alone but want assurance that God, our Father, is present to us. God, as a loving parent, reveals his presence to us in many ways, the greatest of which is the Incarnation of his Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus, in turn, gives himself to us in the Eucharist. The message is that we are not alone. God, Emmanuel, is truly with us. We have God’s Real Presence in our midst. And upon receiving the Eucharist, we, in turn, are called to be like Christ—truly present to those in need.