Dear Friends:
You know by now that in the United States we are in a three-year process and celebration of Eucharistic Revival. The American Catholic Bishops called for this revival as more than 60% of American Catholics do not believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. They don’t take Jesus at His word: This IS my Body; This IS my Blood. They believe It is only a symbol. I personally find that disconcerting that so many Catholics do not treasure the awesome gift of the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and reduce It to a mere symbol.
When Bishop Malloy celebrates Mass, I have noticed that before Holy Communion he gives instructions on how to receive It in a reverent and dignified manner. Let’s remember again.
We should approach with our hands folded. Certainly not in our pockets.
In the United States the proper reverence before approaching the priest, deacon, or extraordinary minister to receive Holy Communion is a slight bow.
The minister of Communion will say: The Body of Christ.” You should answer: Amen!, (before you receive the Sacred Host and not with It already in your mouth). This is your act of faith that It is truly the Body of Christ under the form of the consecrated bread.
If you want to receive on the tongue, you should open your mouth wide and extend your tongue so that it covers your bottom teeth and covers your bottom lip.
If you choose to receive Communion in your hand, as St. John Chrysostom says, you should make a throne for the King by placing the open palm of your left hand over the open palm of your right hand. The minister of Communion will place the Sacred Host in your left hand that is on top. Then take one step aside and place the Host in your mouth holding It between the thumb and index finger of your right hand. You should never walk away with the Host to avoid anything untoward happening and should never make the Sign of the Cross with It. It is improper to simply grab the Host with two finger, nor should you pop It into your mouth directly from the palm of your hand.
Most important of all is your internal disposition—what’s going on in your heart. And of course, being in the state of grace.
Blessings,
Fr. Schuessler
Saint James Catholic Church 