Holy Communion - The Eucharist - The Mass RETURN TO THE SACRAMENTS PAGE Holy Communion, one of the two major sacraments, i.e., those specifically ordained by Christ, is the sacrament in which we achieve grace through joining in Christ through the true and living sacrifice taking place on the altar. The bread and wine become the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is also referred to as the Eucharist, and the complete act of worship is the mass. Mass is led by a priest, and only a priest can licetly consecrate the elements. For more on the doctrine and theology relating to Holy Communion, please visit the Southwest Catechism page or acquire a copy at the ADSW Bookstore. Reception of Holy Communion is limited to baptized Christians who have received the sacrament of Confirmation from a bishop or are ready and desirous of confirmation, but have not yet been able to be brought before the bishop. This restriction is because those who participate in this mystery should have made a public and personal profession of faith (which is done in Confirmation). The mass is the highest prayer. In the mass, the people come together, led by the priest, in one common act of worship, through a sacrament instituted by Christ at the Last Supper. The people may come from different backgrounds, ethnic groups, socio-economic situations, or even countries and languages, but they all join together in this common and unified act. In the way, the mass is a view of the potential of world peace.