This is a reminder for everyone about the proper way to receive.  First, we are to make a sign of reverence before we reach the minister of either the Precious Body or the Precious Blood; our bishops have asked that this be a profound bow of our head.  Nevertheless, genuflections or receiving on one’s knees are welcome.  We are to respond “Amen” when Holy Communion is offered to us.

To receive on the tongue, please open your mouth, tilt your head back and place your tongue on your bottom lip. If your tongue is relaxed and not flexed, the Sacred Host will not move.

To receive in the hand, place one hand on top of the other, raised up a bit (not down at the waist) and flat so that the Host doesn’t slide.  After you are given the Host, take the Host with your bottom hand and place it in your mouth IMMEDIATELY (please refrain from passing the Host from hand to hand or other such things).

Furthermore, Please do not turn after receiving the Host and walk off with it in your hand. You may take at most two steps to the side.  After receiving, it is customary to bless oneself by making the sign of the cross. If you choose to receive the Precious Blood when it is offered, please take the chalice very carefully with two hands and take a tiny sip.  Parents are asked to keep an eye on your children so that they receive our Lord reverently.  May we show the greatest amount of respect and reverence for our Lord who is fully present in the Holy Eucharist.

Spiritual Communion Prayer

My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love you above all things, and I do desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive you sacramentally come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you.