Go deeper, for parents
Who receives Communion, and why
Who may receive, how to prepare, and why other Christians usually don’t.
What your child reads
If you’re preparing for your First Communion, this is what you’re getting ready for: being united with Jesus, and with everyone who receives him, as one body.
From Holy Communion
Who may receive
“Any baptized person not prohibited by law can and must be admitted to holy communion” (Can. 912). Children first need “sufficient knowledge and careful preparation” so they can receive “with faith and devotion” (Can. 913). Teaching
How to prepare
No awareness of grave sin (CCC 1385; Can. 916), and a fast of one hour from food and drink, except water and medicine (Can. 919). Teaching
Why other Christians usually don’t receive
Receiving Communion is also a sign of unity: the Eucharist “is properly the sacrament of those who are in full communion with the Church” (CCC 1395). With the Orthodox Churches, which “possess true sacraments”, some sharing “is not merely possible but is encouraged” in suitable circumstances and with the Church’s approval (CCC 1399). With communities that came from the Reformation, it “is not possible” (CCC 1400), except that in grave necessity Catholic ministers may give Communion to other Christians who share the Catholic faith in the sacrament and ask for it (CCC 1401; Can. 844). Teaching
Saying it kindly
It isn’t a verdict on anyone’s love for Jesus. It’s about the Church being one, which is what Communion means. Tip
Those not receiving
They can come up for a blessing where the parish does this, or pray in the pew. It varies, so check your parish. Tradition
In Singapore
The norm in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei is to receive standing, with a bow of the head first. Kneeling is also allowed, and each person chooses the tongue or the hand (Archdiocese of Singapore). Teaching
Questions children ask
- Why can’t my friend receive?
- Because receiving says “we are one Church”, and that isn’t fully true yet. Your friend can still pray, and come up for a blessing where the parish does that.
Words to avoid
“Non-Catholics aren’t allowed because they’re not good enough.”