A Clear Guide to Holy Communion

Holy Communion is the heart of the Mass.

In Holy Communion, Catholics believe that Jesus Christ Himself is received —
 Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity, under the appearance of bread and wine.

Because of this, Holy Communion is approached with faith, honesty, and reverence.

What Holy Communion Is

Holy Communion is:

  • the Sacrament of the Eucharist
  • the true presence of Jesus Christ
  • spiritual food for eternal life

It is not a symbol.
 It is not merely a reminder.
 It is Christ giving Himself to His Church.

Who May Receive Holy Communion?

Holy Communion is normally received by those who:

  • are baptised Catholics
  • believe what the Church teaches about the Eucharist
  • are properly prepared
  • are not conscious of serious (mortal) sin
  • have observed the Eucharistic fast (normally one hour before Communion)

If you are unsure whether this applies to you, it is perfectly acceptable not to receive.

If You Are Not Receiving Holy Communion

Many faithful Catholics do not receive Holy Communion at every Mass.

You may:

  • remain seated
  • stay in prayer
  • make a spiritual communion in your heart

No explanation is required.
 No one will judge you.

Your presence and prayer still matter.

Coming Forward for a Blessing

Some people come forward with arms crossed to indicate that they are not receiving Holy Communion.

This may include:

  • children who have not yet made their First Holy Communion
  • non-Catholics
  • Catholics who are not receiving at that time

This is optional.

You may:

  • come forward for a brief prayer
  • or remain seated

Both are entirely acceptable.

The Procession to Holy Communion

Holy Communion is normally received in procession, as a sign that we are pilgrims on a journey toward heaven.

As you come forward:

  • move calmly
  • keep a prayerful silence
  • follow those ahead of you

This is not a queue in the ordinary sense.
 It is a sacred procession.

How to Receive Holy Communion Reverently

Holy Communion may be received either on the tongue or in the hand, according to the Church’s law.

Both ways are permitted.
 Both must be done reverently and attentively.

An Important Point

Holy Communion is always received directly in front of the minister.

  • Do not receive to the side
  • Do not turn away to consume the Host
  • Do not walk away holding the Host

Remain in front of the minister until the Host has been received and consumed.

Receiving Holy Communion on the Tongue

If you receive Holy Communion on the tongue:

  • approach calmly
  • stand or kneel directly in front of the minister
  • bow beforehand if you are standing
  • open your mouth gently
  • extend your tongue slightly so the Host can be placed securely
  • remain still until the Host is placed
  • close your mouth
  • then step away reverently

This way of receiving emphasises:

  • humility before God
  • trust in Christ
  • the sacredness of the Eucharist

Receiving Holy Communion in the Hand (Reverently)

If you receive Holy Communion in the hand:

  • approach calmly
  • stand or kneel directly in front of the minister
  • bow beforehand if you are standing
  • place one hand flat on top of the other, forming a small “throne”
  • respond “Amen”
  • receive the Host on your hand
  • consume the Host immediately, in front of the minister
  • then step away reverently

Please take particular care:

  • do not walk away holding the Host
  • do not turn aside to consume it
  • ensure the Host is fully consumed before moving
  • check your hands afterwards for any fragments

This way of receiving calls for attentiveness and responsibility.

Receiving from the Chalice (Precious Blood)

If the Precious Blood is offered:

  • approach calmly
  • take the chalice carefully
  • take a small sip
  • return the chalice gently

If you prefer not to receive from the chalice, simply receive the Host.

Receiving under one kind alone is still full Holy Communion.

Children and Holy Communion

Children who have not yet made their First Holy Communion do not receive the Eucharist.

They may:

  • remain seated with their family
  • or come forward for a blessing

Parents should feel no pressure.

If You Are Returning to Church

If you are returning to Mass after a long time:

  • you are very welcome
  • there is no expectation that you receive Holy Communion immediately

Many people:

  • attend Mass for a time
  • speak to the priest
  • go to Confession
  • then return to Holy Communion

This is normal and encouraged.

After Receiving Holy Communion

After Holy Communion, the Church keeps a time of silence.

This is an important moment.

It is a good time to:

  • thank God
  • pray for loved ones
  • ask for grace and strength
  • simply rest in God’s presence

Silence here is intentional.

If Something Goes Wrong

If:

  • you drop the Host
  • you are unsure what to do
  • you feel anxious

Remain calm and alert the minister quietly.

Do not panic.
 These situations are handled with care.

A Final Word

Holy Communion is not a test.
 It is not something to rush.
 It is not something to fear.

It is a gift.

The Church asks only that we receive:

  • honestly
  • reverently
  • peacefully

If in doubt, remain seated and pray.
 God understands.

You are welcome here.