As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion. The Church sets out specific guidelines regarding how we should prepare ourselves to receive the Lord’s body and blood in Communion.
To receive Communion worthily, you must:
- affirm that the Catholic Church is the one true Church established by Jesus and be a fully participating member of the Church
- have made a good confession since your last mortal sin or within the last 12 months.
- believe in transubstantiation
- observe the Eucharistic fast of one hour
- be free of any ecclesiastical censure such as excommunication.
Communion may be received either in the hand or on the tongue, kneeling or standing.
We also welcome to Mass those who do not share our Catholic faith. While we cannot admit them to Communion, we ask them to come forward with their arms crossed over their chest to receive a blessing from the priest. Or they may remain in their seats and offer their prayers for the peace and the unity of the human family.
Receiving the Sacraments while Homebound
Ill health should never separate a person from the Sacraments. If you, or a member of your family, is homebound please contact the parish office at secretary@stjosephathens.com or call 706-548-6332 to arrange a visit from an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion or to request a visit from a priest for a private Confession.
First Holy Communion
Children preparing for First Holy Communion are usually in conjunction with that of First Reconciliation, through a two year program called Basic Faith I and Basic Faith II.
For more information, submit the Inquiry Form or contact the Religious Education office: 706-548-6332, extension 510