The Holy Eucharist is a sacrament, a sacrifice, and the abiding presence of Jesus Himself. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly and completely present under the appearance of bread and wine. He is present in his body, blood, soul, and divinity.
The word Eucharist is of Greek origin, meaning "thanksgiving." Jesus instituted the Eucharist on Holy Thursday, "the night on which He was betrayed," as He celebrated the Last Supper with His apostles.
At the Passover meal, Jesus took the bread, broke it, and gave it to His apostles saying, "This is my Body which will be given up for you." Then He took the chalice of wine and said, "Take this and drink of this, all of you. This is the cup of my Blood, the Blood of the new and everlasting covenant. It will be shed for you and for alll so that sins may be forgiven. Do this in memory of me."