How to Receive Communion

Receiving Holy Communion at Mass

First and foremost, to approach the table of the Lord, one must have a deep belief in our Lord who is truly present in the Eucharist, body, blood, soul and divinity.

When we receive our Lord in Holy Communion, we should receive him in the way we encounter a loved one: with reverence, care, gentleness and humility. For in the holy Eucharist, the Catechism of the Catholic Church notes, "Christ, God and man, makes himself wholly and entirely present” (1374).

As the communicant in front of you receives Holy Communion, you are to make a sign of reverence. The Bishops of the United States have decided that this sign of reverence is to be a bow. You then approach the Priest, Deacon, or Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (hereinafter minister) with hands extended. The minister then lifts the Sacred Host, shows it to the communicant and says “The Body of Christ”. The communicant responds “Amen”.

If one receives on the tongue, the communicant approaches the minister who lifts the Host, shows it to the communicant and says “The Body of Christ.” The communicant then responds “Amen,” opens his/her mouth and extends his/her tongue (Please be sure to hold still until after the Host is placed on your tongue!). 

Please Do Not Move After bowing as a sign of reverence, whether you receive on the tongue or the hand -- DO NOT MOVE -- until the minister has placed the Sacred Host on your tongue or hand and removed his hand. 

If One Receives on the hand, unless restricted by ailment, hold your top hand flat, and do not move, until the minister has placed the Sacred Host on your hand and removed his. Do not move your hand, arms, fingers, etc.

Never receive Holy Communion in the hand when your hands are impeded; e.g., carrying a cane or some other walking-assistance device, carrying a child in your arms, carrying a purse, have a tissue or handkerchief in your hand, have a cast on your hand, etc. Never receive Holy Communion by extending only one hand. Never reach and grab the Host.

If One Receives on the Tongue, open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and hold still. Do not move until the minister has placed the Host on your tongue and removed his hand.

For children, please make sure you hold your hands up high so the minister can reach your hands.

Once you have received the Sacred Host (after the minister has moved his hand) consume the Host immediately and directly in front of the minister and then reverently move on --do not step aside and bless yourself, genuflect, etc. 

The norm for reception of Holy Communion in the United States is standing; however, we will not deny Holy Communion to people who choose to kneel.

After receiving Communion, silently return to your seat, where you may kneel or sit in reverential silence.