How to Reverently Receive Holy Communion

To ensure that the Eucharist is received with reverence, the Church has given us clear guidelines. These are in place to direct both our inner disposition as well as our external actions as we approach the altar. 

Inner Disposition
In addition to being a baptized Catholic, we are required to:
 
1.      Observe the Eucharistic fast – You are required to fast for at least 1 hour prior to the reception of Communion. 

2.      Be in the state of grace – this means that you are not aware of any mortal sin on your soul. If you are aware of having committed a mortal sin, you must go to Confession before you receive.

3.      Believe what the Eucharist is –  When the priest or Eucharistic Minister says “The body of Christ,” and you respond “Amen,” you affirm that you believe you are receiving Jesus’ actual Body and Blood. 

 External Actions
As the person immediately in front of you is receiving – make a gesture of reverence: a bow, the Sign of the Cross, or a genuflection. You may receive Communion either standing or kneeling. When the priest or Eucharistic Minister says, “The Body of Christ,” respond “Amen.”  

If you choose to receive Communion in your hands, make a throne of your hands by placing your right hand over your left hand. If you choose to receive on the tongue, tilt your head back slightly and stick your tongue out. Wait for the priest or Eucharistic Minister to place Communion on your tongue before closing your mouth. Once you have received, return to your seat, join in the hymn, or pray in your heart.