The Effects of the Eucharist in the Writings of Four Fathers

Abstract

ABSTRACT:This article explores the teaching of St. Cyril of Jerusalem, St. John Chrysostom, St. Augustine and St. Leo the Great on the effect of the Eucharist. What happens when the Christian receives the sacrament? What effect does it have in the life of the believer? The Fathers of the Church answer these questions in a profound and striking way. The effect of the Eucharist is union with Christ, transformation, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, becoming the same body and the same blood as Christ, becoming Christ-bearers, becoming divinized. Such profound transformation then has a direct bearing on every-day Christian living.