366. What is Holy Communion?
Holy Communion is the of Jesus Christ in the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.
367. What is necessary to receive Holy Communion worthily?
To receive Holy Communion worthily it is necessary to be free from sin, to have a right , and to obey the Church's l on the fast required before Holy Communion out of for the body and blood of Our Divine Lord. However, there are some cases in which Holy Communion may be received without fasting.
368. Does he who knowingly receives Holy Communion in mortal sin receive the body and blood of Christ and His graces?
He who knowingly receives Holy Communion in mortal sin receives the and blood of Christ; but he does not receive His and he commits a grave sin of .
369. What should we do to receive more abundantly the graces of Holy Communion?
To receive more abundantly the graces of Holy Communion we should strive to be most and to free ourselves from deliberate sin.
370. Does the Church now command us to fast from midnight before Holy Communion?
The Church does now command us to fast from midnight before Holy Communion, as it did formerly. The laws enacted by Pope Pius XII now regulate this matter by the number of hours we must fast.
371. When may Holy Communion be received without fasting?
Holy Communion may be received without fasting when one is in of death, or when it is necessary to the Blessed Sacrament from insult or injury.
372. What are the laws enacted by Pope Pius XII regarding the fast required before Holy Communion?
The laws enacted by Pope Pius XII regarding the fast required before Holy Communion are the following:
1. may be taken at any time before Holy Communion without breaking the fast.
2. persons, though not confined to bed, may receive Holy Communion after taking or nonalcoholic drinks. A priest's permission is not necessary.
3. All Catholics may receive Holy Communion after fasting hour from food and drink including even alcoholic beverages in moderation. This rule applies to Holy Communion at Mass as well as at Masses celebrated in the morning, afternoon or evening. A priest's permission is not needed.
4. One may not receive Holy Communion a time on the same day, unless the danger of death arises, when he can receive the Blessed Sacrament as . But one who has received the Holy Eucharist at the midnight Mass of Christmas or at the Mass of the Easter Vigil may receive again in the course of the day. These rules show the Church's desire that all Catholics partake of the Holy Eucharist .