Dear Parishioners:

In last week’s homily, I talked about how it is in the “Breaking of bread” that we recognize and encounter the Risen Lord. In other words, it is by participating in the Mass and receiving Communion that we experience the presence of the Lord in the most intimate way possible during our earthly sojourn. As Catholics, it is vital to our spiritual well-being to receive Communion on a consistent basis so that we can share more fully in Christ’s life and be strengthened by him to live out our Christian faith in concrete ways.

As I say this, I am painfully aware that there are those who, for various reasons, are unable to receive Communion. There are also those who could receive Communion but do not do so because they believe that they are not permitted. So the question arises: “Who can receive Communion?” There is certainly a lot of confusion and misinformation revolving around this question. Therefore, I would like to make an effort to clarify some of the issues concerning the reception of this Sacrament.

One of the most common misunderstandings about who can partake of the Eucharist deals with those who are divorced. Some people believe that if they are divorced, they cannot receive the Eucharist. Actually, the converse is true, with a few exceptions. If a person is divorced and not civilly re-married, that person may receive communion. Such a person’s status with the Church is not affected by the divorce. From the viewpoint of the Church, the couple is still married unless, of course, a Church annulment has been granted.

However, if a person got divorced and then re-married without first receiving a Church annulment, then that person should not receive Communion. Likewise, if a person who is divorced is currently living with someone without being married in the Church, he or she should not receive Communion. This same principle would also apply to two people who have never been married before and decide to move in together.

Sometimes there are situations in which individuals refrain from receiving Communion because they were taught that they always have to go to confession prior, even if they have no major sins. If the sins a person has committed are minor, then there is no need to avoid receiving Communion. However, there are some who commit serious sin (i.e. missing Mass) and receive the Eucharist anyway. Such individuals should make it a point to go to confession first.

There are many other circumstances apart from these. If there is any confusion or uncertainty, it is best to consult with a priest to see if it is possible to receive Communion. I urge you to be cautious of what some people tell you regarding the reception of the Eucharist. Not everyone is well informed and the information you get might be wrong. Take time to check it out. God bless!

Fr. Paul