Final answer:
The Blessed Sacrament, if not consumed entirely during Communion, is reserved in the tabernacle in the sanctuary of the church. This practice reflects the sacredness of the consecrated elements believed to be the body and blood of Christ.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the Blessed Sacrament is not all consumed during Communion, it is placed in the tabernacle, which is a secure, often ornate repository designed specifically for this purpose. The tabernacle, typically located in the sanctuary of a church or cathedral, is revered as containing the presence of Christ in the Eucharist, and it provides a space where the consecrated elements are reserved for Communion services, especially for the sick or those unable to attend Mass, or for adoration by the faithful.
The practice of preserving the Blessed Sacrament in a special place relates to the belief that the bread and wine, once consecrated, become the body and blood of Christ. This theological concept is rooted in the words of Jesus Christ during the Last Supper, which serves as the foundation for the sacrament of the Eucharist. In churches following Byzantine traditions, the imagery of the Eucharist – indicating Christ offering the bread and wine – is often represented in sacred art within the sanctuary, underscoring the significance of the Eucharist and its preservation.