Communion from the Chalice was the general rule until the 12th century, and nowadays has become a universal practice, although either for diverse hygienic or psychological reasons people may not wish to receive from the chalice. There are two acceptable methods sanctioned by the Vatican for receiving communion when the chalice is involved. They are:
1. To drink from the chalice.
2. By ‘intinction’ when the priest or special minister dips the hosts into the chalice and the communicant
receives on the tongue. The practice of dipping the host into the chalice by the communicant is an inappropriate and abused method, and is not sanctioned by either the Vatican or the Melbourne archdiocese.
Fasting before receiving communion showed respect and helped the communicant to think and adequately prepare for receiving Jesus. This practise too has changed over the centuries, from the 10th century when sacramental penitence was required before receiving communion, to fasting from midnight and from late 1950s to fasting one hour before. Of course, sick and elderly people are exempt especially where medication is required.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (1994) says:
‘Anyone who desires to receive Christ in Eucharistic communion must be in the state of grace. Anyone aware of having sinned mortally must not receive communion without having received absolution in the Sacrament of Reconciliation/Penance’. (Para 1415 p.356).
After having received communion, then what? The mnemonic ALTAR may help you in this precious time with Jesus.
A: Adoration;
L: Love,
T: Thanksgiving;
A: Asking
R: Reparation
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