The elephant in the Communion line - Who should take communion?

NOV. 21, 2006 (www.catholic.org)  -  There was always an elephant in the room during the Communion debate. In debates about politicians receiving Communion, one big fat fact remained unacknowledged.

Catholics asked: Why should the lawmakers who enact draconian pro-abortion laws receive Communion? But they should have asked: Why are so many others receiving Communion when they shouldn’t?

With their new document, “Happy Are Those Who Are Called to His Supper:” On Preparing to Receive Christ Worthily in the Eucharist,” the bishops are pointing dramatically at the elephant in the Communion line.

The document reminds us not just that Communion is for Catholics only, but for Catholics who:

– Went to confession in the past year, at least, or more often if they committed a serious sin.

– Fasted for an hour first “refraining from food and drink (except for water and medicines) for at least one hour prior to receiving Holy Communion.”

– Are wearing “modest and tasteful dress” – “clothes that reflect our reverence for God and that manifest our respect for the dignity of the liturgy and for one another.”

Are in a recollected and prayerful state of mind.

The statement even spells out some common serious sins. These are sins that constitute grave matter. When we do them deliberately and with knowledge of their sinfulness, they put us in a state of mortal sin.