Secretariat for Parish Life   of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland   Living the Faith

Clarification of Synod on Sharing Eucharist With Other Christians

The final message of the synod on the Eucharist did make clear that generally other Christians are not admitted to Catholic Eucharist because the Eucharistic communion is at the same time ecclesial communion. But the final sentence of this section said and I quote “However, it should be clear that, with a view to personal salvation, admitting non-Catholic Christians to the Eucharist, the sacrament of penance and the anointing of the sick, in certain particular situations and under specific conditions, is possible even to be recommended.” So guidelines for sharing during a Nuptial Mass by bride and groom still remain legitimate with permission as do other specific situations as outlined in the Diocesan policy for Eucharistic sharing.

In the Eastern churches, people approach ready to receive Holy Communion by crossing their arms over their heart with hands flat against the chest. Such gesture is being suggested during school Masses in Latin rite churches for those who are not to receive but wish to receive a blessing. Shouldn’t we use some other signal than one that appropriates a gesture from the Eastern Church in such a contradictory way?

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