Is the Episcopal Church understanding of Eucharist the same as the Catholic?

[CathyD]

Sometime after the first of the year, I will have to attend a parent meeting for First Eucharist. Unfortunately, this meeting is led by a sister who has un-orthodox ideas about the Eucharist. I would like to be well prepared.

What is the difference between the Catholic and the Episcopalian/Anglican understanding of the Eucharist?

Thanks,
Cathy

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Dear Cathy,

We Catholics, of course, believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Some Episcoplians also believe in the real presence, while others believe in only a symbolic presence. Both understandings are acceptable in the Episcopal Church. For Catholics this is unthinkable. Both understandings can’t be true.

Although both churches seem similar on the surface with their customs and liturgies, it is in the area of theology that one can see the deep chasm that separates them!

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.