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Why do Catholics believe Holy Communion is the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ? Why don they believe that Christ is only present symbolically?

April 26, 2017actual believe blood body Catholics Christ communion Holy jesus christ PRESENT

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Why do Catholics believe Holy Communion is the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ? Why don they believe that Christ is only present symbolically?

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Yes, “Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the literal body and blood of Christ.” Lets “begin by reading Jn 4:31-34 and Mt 16:5-12, which describes Jesus speaking about food in a symbolic or figurative way. The disciples interpret Him to mean real food. Note how Jesus shows them in plain, unmistakable language that he is only speaking figuratively.” “Contrast this with Jn 6:51. Jesus says that we must eat His flesh in order to have life. In Jn 6:52, the Jews interpret Him literally. Jesus then repeats again and again (verses 53-56)–in the clearest possible language–that we must eat His flesh and drink His blood in order to have eternal life. Take special note of verse 55: ‘For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed’–this is not the language of symbolism.”8 Before continuing, let’s pause for a meditation on this important point which follows.