What About Communion?

We believe the Eucharist is the true presence of Jesus Christ.

At the Last Supper, Jesus said:

“This is my body… this is my blood.” (Matthew 26:26–28)

Jesus also taught:

“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him.” (John 6:56)

Because Catholics believe Holy Communion is truly Jesus—not merely a symbol—it is received with deep reverence and spiritual preparation.

The Church teaches:

“The Eucharist is ‘the source and summit of the Christian life.’” (CCC 1324)

Receiving Holy Communion expresses both a personal union with Christ and a visible unity with what the Catholic Church believes and teaches.

Scripture: John 6:51–58; Matthew 26:26–28
Catechism: CCC 1322–1419

We warmly welcome all people to join us at Mass. However, those who are not Catholic are ordinarily asked not to receive Holy Communion.

This is not meant to exclude anyone or suggest that someone is unwelcome. Rather, there are two important reasons.

First, we ask that non-Catholics do not receive Holy Communion as a way to protect the souls of those visiting us. By not recognizing the sacredness of the Eucharist and treating communion as purely symbolic, Paul teaches that we are “guilty of the body and blood of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 11:27). And “For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body, eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why many among you are ill and infirm, and a considerable number are dying” (1 Corinthians 11:29-30).

Secondly, it reflects what Catholics believe Communion means.

Receiving Holy Communion is not only a personal act of devotion – it is also a public sign of unity in faith, worship, and sacramental life. To receive Communion is to say “yes” to the beliefs of the Catholic Church and to be in full communion with the Church.

Saint Paul reminds Christians:

“Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” (1 Corinthians 10:17)

The Church teaches:

“Ecclesial communities derived from the Reformation… have not preserved the proper reality of the Eucharistic mystery in its fullness.” (CCC 1400)

For this reason, Catholics ordinarily receive Communion only when united in Catholic faith and sacramental communion.

We recognize that this can feel unfamiliar or even difficult, especially for spouses, family members, or visitors from other Christian traditions. Please know that your presence is valued, and we are honored that you are worshipping with us.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:16–17; 1 Corinthians 11:23-30; Acts 2:42
Catechism: CCC 1396, 1400, 1401

If you are not receiving Holy Communion, you are warmly invited to come forward during the Communion procession for a blessing or to remain prayerfully in your pew.

If you would like to receive a blessing, simply join the Communion line and cross your arms over your chest when you approach the priest or minister. This is a common sign, used by Catholics and non-Catholics alike, that you are not receiving Communion.

The minister will offer a brief blessing or prayer.

You are also welcome to remain seated or kneeling in prayer, asking Jesus to draw close to you in a time of spiritual communion.

Scripture reminds us:

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

We believe God’s grace is at work in every heart that sincerely seeks Him.

Scripture: Matthew 11:28; Psalm 34:8

Catholics are also called to prepare themselves spiritually before receiving Holy Communion.

Because we believe the Eucharist is truly Jesus Christ, Catholics should not receive Communion if they are conscious of grave (mortal) sin and have not yet been reconciled through the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession).

Saint Paul gives this instruction:

“Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily will have to answer for the body and blood of the Lord. A person should examine himself.” (1 Corinthians 11:27–28)

The Church teaches:

“Anyone conscious of a grave sin must receive the sacrament of Reconciliation before coming to communion.” (CCC 1385)

Mortal sin involves:

• grave matter (something seriously wrong),
• full knowledge that it is seriously wrong, and
• deliberate consent (a free choice to do it).

The Catechism explains:

“Mortal sin destroys charity in the heart of man by a grave violation of God’s law.” (CCC 1855)

Examples may include serious violations of God’s commandments, though each person’s circumstances and conscience matter. When unsure, Catholics are encouraged to speak with a priest.

This teaching is not about shame or exclusion. It reflects the Church’s belief in the holiness of the Eucharist and God’s desire to heal us through repentance and mercy.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:27–29; John 20:22–23
Catechism: CCC 1385, 1415, 1854–1864

Catholics are also encouraged to prepare for Holy Communion through prayer, reverence, and the Eucharistic fast.

The Church asks Catholics to abstain from food and drink (except water and medicine) for one hour before receiving Communion as a sign of reverence and spiritual preparation (CCC 1387).

Before receiving, Catholics are encouraged to prayerfully reflect, examine their conscience, and approach the Eucharist with gratitude and humility.

The Church teaches:

“Bodily demeanor (gestures, clothing) ought to convey the respect, solemnity, and joy of this moment.” (CCC 1387)

Scripture: Psalm 139:23–24; 1 Corinthians 11:28
Catechism: CCC 1385–1389