Communion Requirements

Question:  Why can't everyone who wants to receive Communion, receive Communion at Mass?

Answer:  Outside of the Church, many organizations have all sorts of requirements for membership: dues, achievements, professional standings, etc. The requirements bring the group together in common purposes and goals. Within the Church, there are also basic “requirements” for receiving the sacraments. As Catholics, we believe that the Eucharist is the true “Bread of Life.” It is the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ. When we receive the Eucharist, we are receiving Jesus. Out of reverence for Christ, only those in union with this teaching and in a state of grace should receive communion. As Catholics, we should abstain from communion if we are in mortal sin.

While we share many articles of faith with our Protestant brothers and sisters, their understanding of this teaching is fundamentally different. For most non-Catholic churches, they do not believe that Christ becomes truly present in the Eucharist. As such, they should not receive communion in a Catholic Church. These differences are greater for people of non-Christian faiths, and even more apparent for those who do not believe in God. Receiving communion is not a right, but a gift to be accepted in humble, trusting faith.

©LPi