\The Holy Eucharist is a Sacrament of the New Law instituted by Jesus Christ Our Lord at the most solemn epoch of His life. He gave it just before His Passion as the last Testament of His love, His legacy to mankind, an enduring memorial of Himself. No other sacrament was so abundantly prophesied in figure under the Old Testament, or so repeatedly and clearly described in the New. This holy sacrament is superior to all the others, inasmuch as they are signs and channels of grace, while in this is contained the great reality which is at the center of the Christian system, the Author of all grace Himself. All the other sacraments look to the Holy Eucharist, and are in some way subsidiary to it, as preparations or qualifications for it, as securing its continuance, as perfecting its effects. In its outward sign the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is a Banquet. Its matter, wheaten bread and the wine of the grape, typifies its spiritual functions as the daily food and drink which strengthen our souls and maintain their spiritual life. The words which raise the earthly materials to the sacramental dignity are those of the last supper: "This is My Body. This is My Blood." Admire the wonders of divine wisdom, the intensity of divine love, the boundless generosity which has bestowed such a treasure on mankind. Let it be always your most valued treasure, the object of your deepest faith and love and gratitude.
