Posted on 02/28/2015 10:04:10 AM PST by NRx
On February 3, 2015 (NS) the Holy Synod approved the linked document which lays out the current discipline for the reception of the Holy Mysteries of the Altar by the lay faithful. The executive summary is that it cautiously encourages the faithful to commune more frequently than the old custom of once or twice a year, while reiterating the necessity of approaching the chalice with great reverence. This means observing the pre-communion fasts, recent confession and prayerful participation in the services of the Church. Details of which may be found in the document.
To many the discipline described in the document may seem somewhat strict and it may not fully reflect the practice in their own parish, diocese or jurisdiction. Your mileage will vary. The final authority on participation in the Holy Sacraments is your spiritual father (confessor) under the authority of your bishop.
(Excerpt) Read more at jordanville.org ...
Faith should be the precondition for reception. The faith is the mark He is looking for. Perfect of imperfect.
Liturgical Vigilantes
[CATHOLIC CAUCUS] THE TEN MOST COMMON LITURGICAL ABUSES
Discipline Regarding Reception of Holy Communion
Liturgical Abuses: Summarized from Redemptionis Sacramentum
THE TEN MOST COMMON LITURGICAL ABUSES And Why They're Wrong
Another Look at the Orans Issue
Chapter II - General Instruction of the Roman Missal
Communion by Intinction: A "New" Way of Receiving Communion in Both Kinds
General Instruction of the Roman Missal [G. I. R. M.]
New GIRM: Bishop Orders No Kneeling For Silent Time After Communion
GIRM - A WITNESS TO UNBROKEN TRADITION
Here’s the key:”The final authority on participation in the Holy Sacraments is your spiritual father (confessor) under the authority of your bishop.”
For those who don’t want to plod through the document, here are the most important conditions for receiving Holy Communion...
* Must be an Orthodox Christian in good standing.
* Must have kept the Eucharistic Fast (nothing to eat or drink from Midnight before unless excused for reasons of health).
* Kept a general fast (no meat fish wine oil or dairy) ideally for three days before communing. Some exceptions exist.
* Abstained from marital relations, ideally for three days before communing, but at least from the night before.
* Attend the important services of the Church during the week preceding Communion, especially Vespers on the night before and Matins (Orthros) on the morning of Communion.
* Must not be aware of any serious sin or discord in one’s life or in our relations with others.
* Recent Confession, ideally within the last 24hrs, though in some cases this can be extended for up to a week.
* Receive the blessing (permission) of your spiritual father (confessor) to commune the Holy Mysteries.
Obviously some of these carry more weight than others.
+1
This is the discipline of the Russian Church. There is a lot of variation. Your priest has the last word.
It helps my understanding of and appreciation for what is being offered to us.
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