Today we continue our discussion on the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. Just as it is necessary to nourish our bodies with material food, so also it is necessary to nourish our souls with spiritual food. Our Divine Saviour so loved us that He gave us Himself in this unique sacrament; He gave us His own body and blood as food for our souls.
St. Paul admonishes us;
“So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.” (1Cor. 11:27)
How to receive Holy Communion Worthily
1. It is necessary to be free from mortal sin through the proper use of the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation (which shall be our next Sacrament of study)
2. to have the right intention of truly receiving the body and blood of Christ .
3. to obey the Church’s laws on the fast required before Holy Communion (at least 1 hour) out of reverence for the body and blood of Our Divine Lord. (There are exceptions for the sick and those in danger of death)
Venial sin does not make us unworthy of receiving Holy Communion; but it does prevent us from receiving the more abundant graces and blessings which we would otherwise receive from Holy Communion.
To receive more abundantly the graces of Holy Communion we should strive to be most fervent and to free ourselves from deliberate venial sin.
He who knowingly receives Holy Communion in mortal sin receives the body and blood of Christ, but he does not receive His graces and commits a grave sin of sacrilege.
Effects of Worthy Holy Communion
~It makes the Sanctifying Grace in your soul grow.
“Except you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, you shall not have life in you.” (John 6:54)
~Communion unites you with Jesus.
“He that eats my flesh, and drinks my blood, abides in me and I in him.” (John 6:57)
~It is food for your soul, to help you love God and obey His laws.
“Give us this day our daily bread.” (Luke 11:3)
~It is a promise of your resurrection and future glory in Heaven.
“He that eats my flesh, and drinks my blood has everlasting life: and I will raise him up in the last day.” (John 6:55)
~It weakens your sinful inclinations.
You may want answers to some questions related to the Holy Eucharist under both species by clicking on the links below:
1. Question on Communion Under Both Species (1)
2. Question on Communion Under Both Species (2)
May the Eucharistic Lord bless us and I wish you all a fruitful Lenten Season which begins from Wednesday 1st March 2017 with Ash Wednesday.
Let’s meet next week Monday to continue our journey back to our roots.
Padre Antonio
(WhatsApp number: +233 541 859198)
(You may whatsapp your questions and contributions for further clarifications)
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