Body, Blood, 

Soul & Divinity.

What Happens at Holy Communion?

Who Can Receive Holy Communion?

Because Holy Communion is one of the most precious things that Jesus has given to us, it is important to prepare ourselves properly before receiving. In the Roman Catholic Church, once a child is old enough to understand that the Eucharist is the gift of Jesus’ own life, he receives careful preparation (sacramental preparation) so that he may receive his First Holy Communion. In addition to learning the truths about the Eucharist, the child prepares himself spiritually, receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation, so that he might receive Holy Communion with a pure heart.

For adults, too, careful preparation is necessary before receiving Holy Communion. Because Holy Communion is a sign of unity with the Catholic Church, one should only receive Holy Communion if he believes what the Catholic Church teaches, and is living as a member of the Church, following the way of life that she sets out for her children. If one is conscious of serious sin, he should receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before approaching Holy Communion.

Christians not in union with the Catholic Church are not admitted to receive the Eucharist.

Members of the Orthodox Church, the Assyrian Church of the East, and the Polish National Catholic Church are welcomed by the Roman Catholic Church to receive Holy Communion, but are urged to respect the discipline of their own churches.

How do I Prepare to Receive Holy Communion?

Holy Communion is a great mystery, to be approached with reverence and awe. Holy Communion is a great spiritual gift, but it also requires great respect.

The most important preparation is spiritual. Many Catholics choose to take some time for private prayer before mass to prepare for Holy Communion. In order to receive Holy Communion worthily, individuals with serious sins first need to receive forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Confession is also a valuable preparation for those with lesser sins, and most parishes provide it at a convenient time for those who desire to receive Holy Communion at Sunday Mass.

The Church offers various aids to help Catholics prepare themselves for Holy Communion. She requires a fast of at least one hour before receiving Communion. This fast includes all food and drink except for water and medicine, but it does not apply to the ill or elderly. Some Catholics find it helpful to fast for a longer time, even from the night before, in order to be better prepared for Holy Communion. Time spent praying in thanksgiving after receiving Holy Communion is also well rewarded.

What if I can not Receive Holy Communion?

There are many individuals who will not be able to receive Holy Communion at any given Mass. These include children who have not yet made their First Holy Communion, non-Catholics who may be in the congregation, those who have not made the necessary fast before mass, and individuals who are in a state of sin, including those who are living in irregular marital situations.

While the worthy reception of Holy Communion is a great gift, it is not necessary for a Catholic to receive Holy Communion at every mass. Participation in the mass gives glory to God and can be of great spiritual value even when one does not receive Holy Communion. Those who do not receive Holy Communion can join with the whole community in prayer, asking God’s blessing upon themselves and upon the whole world.

At times it may be painful not to be able to receive Holy Communion. For Catholics, this may serve as an invitation to speak with a priest who can help them return to full communion. For non-catholics, it can be an inspiration to pray for greater union among Christians. The Catholic Church invites all people to communion, but full communion means a choice to embrace the teachings and way of life that the Church has received from Christ and continues to propose to the people of today.

Each time we receive Holy Communion well, we not only receive the Body of Christ, but become more deeply united to Christ in His Body, the Church. This great gift calls for great preparation, and invites us to give the rest of our lives to Jesus, as well.

Adoration at Holy Angels will be open to all those who would like to stop in and pray in front of the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesdays from 9 AM-5 PM).

We will continue using our online sign-ups to ensure that we have at least one person in the church. Families and friends are always welcome and encouraged to sign-up for an hour to pray together. 

Please help us continue this beautiful opportunity for our Sandusky Catholic community:

Sign-Up for a Holy Hour

Are you unsure about signing up? Don’t know what to do during Adoration? Check out the following articles to get started.

What is Adoration?

A Beginner’s Guide to Adoration

Visual Steps to Adoration

If you ever have any questions please feel free to talk to one of our priests or deacons.

Sunday, May 7, 2023