What is the sacrifice of the Mass?

The sacrifice of the Mass is a central concept in Catholic theology that refers to the belief that during the celebration of the Eucharist, the bread and wine offered by the priest are transformed into the body and blood of Jesus Christ. This transformation, known as transubstantiation, is believed to make present the sacrifice of Christ on the cross, allowing Catholics to participate in and receive the graces of that sacrifice. The Mass is seen as a re-presentation of Christ's sacrifice, not a repetition or continuation of it.

The sacrifice of the Mass is a re-presentation of the sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross. It is a sacramental action in which the priest, acting in the person of Christ, offers bread and wine to God the Father under the appearances of bread and wine. The bread and wine are consecrated by the priest's words of consecration, and they become the Body and Blood of Christ. The sacrifice of the Mass is offered for the living and the dead, and it is a source of grace for all who participate in it.