Receiving Communion is the most intimate moment of your life. You are consuming God. St. Cyril of Jerusalem (4th Century) said: "Make your left hand a throne for the right, as for one who is to receive a King."
Here is how to ensure your body language matches your belief.
Preparation (Before Mass)
The fast is mandatory. One hour of no food or drink (except water/medicine) before Communion. This physical hunger prepares us for spiritual food.
Approach
- Fold your hands. Don't have them in your pockets or swinging at your sides.
- Bow. When the person in front of you is receiving, make a reverent bow (or genuflect).
Receiving on the Hand
- Place your left hand on top of your right (if right-handed). Make a flat "throne."
- The priest says, "The Body of Christ."
- You say, "Amen" (loud and clear).
- Let him place the host in your palm. Do not snatch it.
- Step to the side and consume it immediately. Do not walk back to the pew with Jesus in your hand. Check your palm for crumbs.
Receiving on the Tongue
- Open your mouth wide and extend your tongue. (Don't make the priest aim for a moving target!).
- Keep your hands folded.
- Say "Amen" before opening your mouth.
Communion from the Chalice
If receiving the Blood of Christ:
- Take the chalice firmly with two hands.
- Take a small sip.
- Hand it back to the minister.
What NOT to Do
- Don't chew gum (spit it out before Mass).
- Don't say "Thank you" (say "Amen").
- Don't bless yourself with the host.
Reverence is an act of love. Prepare your heart with Prayers Before Communion on the MyPrayerTower app.
A Prayer for Grace
As you reflect on these spiritual truths, we invite you to join us in this prayer:
"Lord Jesus, we thank You for the wisdom of the Church and the witness of the saints. Grant us the grace to live out our faith with joy and perseverance. May our prayers be a sweet incense rising to Your throne, and may Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen."
Deepen Your Spiritual Journey
If you found this reflection helpful, we invite you to explore more ways to strengthen your faith with MyPrayerTower:
- Join our Prayer Wall: Share your intentions and pray for others in our global community.
- Light a Virtual Candle: Offer a symbolic light for your loved ones or special intentions.
- Get the MyPrayerTower App: The full spiritual experience on your Android device.
- Chat with our Telegram Bot: Get daily readings, saint stories, and prayer reminders directly on Telegram.
May God bless you and keep you always in His grace.