Abendmahlslehre

Abendmahlslehre, literally “doctrine of the Lord's Supper,” is a field of Christian theology that analyzes the Eucharist, its institution by Jesus, the elements of bread and wine, and the means by which grace is believed to be dispensed through the rite. It addresses whether Christ is present in the sacraments, and if so, how this presence is realized, as well as the meaning of participation, the role of clergy, and the liturgical framing of the meal. Across Christian traditions, several major positions are distinguished.

In Catholic theology, the Eucharist is conferred through transubstantiation: the bread and wine become, in reality, the body and blood of Christ while maintaining appearances of bread and wine; the sacrament is a true sacrifice and a means of grace, celebrated within the Mass and often involving adoration of the elements. Eastern Orthodoxy likewise upholds a real, mysterious presence, with emphasis on participation in the divine reality through the liturgy.

Lutheran Abendmahlslehre speaks of the sacramental union, whereby Christ is truly present “in, with, and under” the elements; the elements remain unchanged, and faith receives the benefits of the presence. Reformed and Calvinist traditions generally teach a spiritual or symbolic presence, stressing the memorial and covenantal aspects rather than a change in the elements. Zwinglian and Anabaptist traditions often favor memorial or symbolic interpretation, though some variations exist.

Anglican and other Protestant churches articulate a spectrum between these positions, reflecting historical tensions between Catholic and Reformed understandings. Modern discussions frequently focus on ecumenical convergence, liturgical practice, and questions of communion eligibility.