285. How long does the presence of Christ last in the Eucharist?

285. How long does the presence of Christ last in the Eucharist?   

(Comp 285) The presence of Christ continues in the Eucharist as long as the eucharistic species subsist.

“In brief” 

(CCC 1377) The Eucharistic presence of Christ begins at the moment of the consecration and endures as long as the Eucharistic species subsist. Christ is present whole and entire in each of the species and whole and entire in each of their parts, in such a way that the breaking of the bread does not divide Christ (Cf. Council of Trent: DS 1641). 

To deepen, explain and to reflect 

(CCC 1381) "That in this sacrament are the true Body of Christ and his true Blood is something that 'cannot be apprehended by the senses,' says St. Thomas, 'but only by faith, which relies on divine authority.' For this reason, in a commentary on Luke 22:19 ('This is my body which is given for you.'), St. Cyril says: 'Do not doubt whether this is true, but rather receive the words of the Savior in faith, for since he is the truth, he cannot lie'" (St. Thomas Aquinas, STh III, 75, 1; cf. Paul VI, MF 18; St. Cyril of Alexandria, In Luc. 22, 19: PG 72, 912; cf. Paul VI, MF 18). Godhead here in hiding, whom I do adore Masked by these bare shadows, shape and nothing more, See, Lord, at thy service low lies here a heart Lost, all lost in wonder at the God thou art. Seeing, touching, tasting are in thee deceived; How says trusty hearing? that shall be believed; What God's Son has told me, take for truth I do; Truth himself speaks truly or there's nothing true (St. Thomas Aquinas (attr.), Adoro te devote; tr. Gerard Manley Hopkins).  

(Next question: What kind of worship is due to the sacrament of the Eucharist?)