Ignatius of Antioch, in his letter to the Ephesians, refers to the Eucharist as the “Medicine of Immortality” because we are receiving healing for our sins. It is the memorial of Christ’s death and Resurrection. In His sacrifice of the cross, He leaves us with the gift of Salvation. John Paul II also referred to it as “The Sacrament of Love,” as Jesus mysteriously remains present to us in the tabernacles of our churches, waiting for us to spend time with Him.
Jesus instituted the gift of the Eucharist on the night He was betrayed (Corinthians 11:23); we know it as Holy Thursday—The Last Supper. He gave it to His disciples and said, “This is my Body, which will be given up for you.” After He took the Chalice, He gave thanks and gave it to His disciples saying, “This is the Chalice of my Blood, the Blood of the new and eternal covenant, which will be poured out for you and for many. Do this in memory of me.”