The English word Eucharist comes from a Greek word meaning to be grateful.
We gather to celebrate the Eucharist in response to God’s love. We have in our hearts deep gratitude for the good news of the Blessed Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The celebration of the Eucharist, which we also sometimes refer to as ‘The Mass’, unfolds in two great parts which form one single act of worship; the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
The Eucharistic celebration, the Mass, is the source and summit of the whole Christian life. All those present celebrate in unity with the priest, the priest representing the whole Church and speaking in the name of the whole Church and thus in the name of Christ.