According to the Catechism, “The Eucharist is "the source and summit of the Christian life." Our whole life as Catholics is oriented towards worthy and fruitful reception of the Eucharist, and this life begins with the Eucharist as well. It is the source of all grace. St. Irenaeus said, “Our way of thinking is attuned to the Eucharist, and the Eucharist in turn confirms our way of thinking.” 

"The other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it. For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself, our Passover” (CCC 1324).

According to the Catechism, the Eucharist is:

• The source and fountain of grace
• The cause of our communion with the Church
• The culmination of God’s saving actions in the world
• The anticipation of and participation in the heavenly liturgy

For Further Discussion: Names of the Eucharist; Characteristics; Transubstantiation; Thanksgiving, Memorial and Presence; Fruits of Holy Communion; In What Way is Christ Present? The Institution of the Eucharist; Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; Eucharistic Miracles; Pledge of Future Glory