Real Presence
"Real Presence" refers to the belief in certain Christian traditions that Jesus Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, which is the bread and wine used during the sacrament of Communion. This doctrine asserts that, during the Mass, the substances of bread and wine are transformed into the actual body and blood of Christ, while their appearances remain unchanged. This belief is particularly emphasized in the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and some Eastern Orthodox communities.
The concept of Real Presence is rooted in the words of Jesus at the Last Supper, where he instituted the Eucharist. It is a central tenet of faith for many Christians, symbolizing a deep spiritual connection with Christ. The understanding of Real Presence varies among different denominations, with some viewing it as a symbolic act rather than a literal transformation.