Holy Communion separates us from sin. the body of Christ we receive in Holy Communion is “given up for us,” and the blood we drink “shed for the many for the forgiveness of sins.” For this reason the Eucharist cannot unite us to Christ without at the same time cleansing us from past sins and preserving us from future sins:
For as often as we eat this bread and drink the cup, we proclaim the death of the Lord. If we proclaim the Lord’s death, we proclaim the forgiveness of sins. If, as often as his blood is poured out, it is poured for the forgiveness of sins, I should always receive it, so that it may always forgive my sins. Because I always sin, I should always have a remedy. (CCC 1393)
Rules for receiving Holy Communion
- Must be a baptized Catholic in full communion with the Church.
- An hour of fasting is required before receiving the Eucharist, with the exception of water and necessary medicine.
- One must be in a state of grace, free from mortal sin, to worthily receive Holy Communion.
- The faithful are encouraged to receive Holy Communion frequently.
- Participation at Mass is obligatory on Sundays and designated Holy Days.
- Every Catholic is to receive Holy Communion at least once annually.
How to properly receive Holy Communion
- After Communion, the faithful return to their place in prayerful thanksgiving.
- A bow of reverence is made when presented with the Body and Blood of Christ.
- When receiving in the hand, the communicant extends both hands upward with palms open.
- The minister proclaims, “The Body of Christ.”
- The communicant responds, “Amen.”
- The Body of Christ is then reverently taken with the right hand and consumed.
- When receiving on the tongue, the communicant first says “Amen,” folds their hands, opens their mouth, and gently extends the tongue.
- Once the Body of Christ is placed upon the tongue, the mouth is closed in reverence.
- When offered the chalice, the minister says, “The Blood of Christ.”
- The communicant responds, “Amen,” receives the chalice, drinks a small portion, and returns it.
