Should we receive Holy
Communion only from priests?
Answer / Resources:
[click link(s) below, as applicable]
Yes. As the Council of
Trent states...
"In the
sacramental reception it has always been the custom in the Church of God that
the laity receive Communion from the priests and that priests who are
celebrating Mass give Communion to themselves. This custom should rightly and
deservedly be kept as coming down from apostolic tradition."
And as stated in the
Catechism of the Council of Trent...
"To safeguard in
every possible way the dignity of so august a Sacrament, not only is the power
of its administration entrusted exclusively to priests, but the Church has also
prohibited by law any but consecrated persons, unless some case of great
necessity intervene, to dare handle or touch the sacred vessels, the linen, or
other instruments necessary to its completion. Priests themselves and the rest
of the faithful may hence understand how great should be the piety and holiness
of those who approach to consecrate, administer or receive the Eucharist."
Note: For more on
this topic, see
here ("Lay 'Eucharistic Ministers': Why Not?")
Also Note:
Novelties such as 'lay ministers' are specific to the
Novus Ordo (New Order) Mass of the 1960's. To avoid such novelties, consider
attending the
Traditional Latin Mass. Thankfully, the
Traditional Latin Massis still lawfully said throughout the world. This
ancient & incomparable, highly reverent Mass contains numerous & significant differences from the 1960's
Novus Ordo Mass (try
here for more information). To locate a Traditional Latin Mass in your area,
try
here.
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