| 
 According to the 
Baltimore Catechism... 
Q. When are we 
bound to receive Holy Communion?  
A.  [Catholics who have reached the age of reason] are bound 
to receive Holy Communion [worthily], under pain of mortal sin, during the
Easter time and when in danger of
death. 
Note: The above 
is a minimum. More frequent Communion is recommended (assuming, of course, 
communicants are able to receive worthily). 
Note that the 
obligation to (worthily) receive the Holy Eucharist at Easter – the "Easter 
Duty" – is a grave obligation that must not be denied... 
"If anyone 
denies that each and everyone of Christ's faithful of both sexes, is bound, when 
he reaches the age of reason, to receive Communion at least every year during 
the Paschal season according to the command of holy Mother Church: let him be 
anathema." (Council of Trent) 
Lastly, note that 
the obligation of receiving Holy Communion does not extend to mentally 
handicapped persons who are incapable of distinguishing the Real Presence of 
Christ in the Holy Eucharist... 
"Communion must 
not be given to persons who are insane and incapable of devotion. However, 
according to the decree of the Council of Carthage, it may be administered to 
them at the close of life, provided they have shown, before losing their minds, 
a pious and religious disposition, and no danger, arising from the state of the 
stomach or other inconvenience or disrespect, is likely." (Catechism of the 
Council of Trent ) 
 
Reminder: We make no guarantee whatsoever regarding any item herein. Items herein may be the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect our views. 
All applicable items may be subject to change at any time without notice. Utilize any link(s) appearing on this page at your own risk.  
For more terms information, see "Important Notice" below. 
 |