What Are the Effects of the Eucharist?

"Nathan" asked the following question in the Q&A forum at Phatmass:

I am fast approaching confirmation (this Easter!) and am very excited. What excites me most of all is the thought of finally receiving the Eucharist. I yearn for it. To truly, physically touch and be touched by Lord Jesus Christ... by God... what more could anyone ask for?

Anyway, my question: What can I expect from receiving the Body of Christ in terms of "effects" -- that is, how I feel? Do people notice a difference, mentally/physically/spiritually?

Well, since it is your first time, it will probably be a very moving experience. That tends to happen, especially when you begin to grasp what is actually taking place. However, do not be disappointed if you are not moved to tears. I am moved to respond in that way even still--and I've been a Catholic all my life--but I don't always react this way. Sometimes the experience is not particularly moving at all. But this isn't to discredit the Eucharist, for we know that, regardless of our emotional reaction, something truly profound has taken place: we have received the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The effects are these:

• the forgiveness of our venial sins
• the reception of actual, sacramental grace to strengthen us in our mission to do what is right and resist evil
• intimate communion with our Lord
• intimate communion with His Body, the Church.

For more on the effects of the Eucharist, go here and here (see nos. 1391-1401).

Pax Christi,
phatcatholic