We need to prepare properly to receive Holy Communion: We have tarnished God’s image within us through acts of impurity, injustice and disobedience. Hence, there is always need for repentance, and a need for the Sacramental confession of grave sins, before we receive Holy Communion. We should remember the warning given by St Paul: “Whoever, therefore, eats the Bread or drinks the Cup of the Lord in unworthy manner will be answerable for the Body and Blood of the Lord.
Examine yourself, and only then eat of the Bread and drink of the Cup. For all who eat and drink without discerning the Body, eat and drink judgment against themselves.” (Cor.11:27-9). Hence, let us receive Holy Communion with fervent love and respect – not merely as a matter of routine.
St Paul is speaking also of the Mystical Body of Christ, i.e. the people of God gathered at the altar. Such a union, plainly, means that our outward piety towards the consecrated Bread and Wine cannot coexist with rudeness, unkindness, slander, cruelty, gossiping or any other breach of charity toward our brothers and sisters.
Examine yourself, and only then eat of the Bread and drink of the Cup. For all who eat and drink without discerning the Body, eat and drink judgment against themselves.” (Cor.11:27-9). Hence, let us receive Holy Communion with fervent love and respect – not merely as a matter of routine.
St Paul is speaking also of the Mystical Body of Christ, i.e. the people of God gathered at the altar. Such a union, plainly, means that our outward piety towards the consecrated Bread and Wine cannot coexist with rudeness, unkindness, slander, cruelty, gossiping or any other breach of charity toward our brothers and sisters.
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