Holy Thursday: Eucharist and the Priesthood

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s kingdom.” When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. [Lk 22:26-30]

Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. [Heb 5:8-10]

On Holy Thursday, at the Last Supper, Jesus established the Eucharist and the Priesthood, two of the most important aspects of the Mass. He asked his followers to continue to celebrate this in memory of Him.