### Instruction: Q. 251. Why did Christ institute the Holy Eucharist?

### Response: A. Christ instituted the Holy Eucharist: 1. To unite us to Himself and to nourish our soul with His body and   blood. 2. To increase sanctifying grace and all virtues in our soul. 3. To lessen our evil inclinations. 4. To be a pledge of everlasting life. 5. To fit our bodies for a glorious resurrection. 6. To continue the sacrifice of the cross in His Church.

-- Source: Baltimore Catechism #1 / LESSON NINTEENTH ON THE ENDS FOR WHICH THE HOLY EUCHARIST WAS INSTITUTED / Q. 251