Yes. Ordinarily, it's up to the individual to stay away from Communion if he's in a state of mortal sin, because there's no way for the priest to know that.
But in the case of a famous politician, like Teddy Kennedy, John Kerry, or Nancy Pelosi, most likely the priest would know what the situation was. Especially if there was advance warning that the pol would be there for Mass.
That's why I was curious to know whether Pelosi went up for Communion at either of these masses. I don't watch TV and I haven't heard anything about it here in the forum.
If communion has been administered to Kennedy or Kerry, it would be difficult for the church, already under fire from feminists, to withhold it from Pelosi. It really would be inconsistent. The church needs to stand for something. Or not. But do it across the board.
Ahhh...well that may be what the ole "private prayer" thing is all about. Half of CINO Congress is in "private prayer" with their priest...How convenient for everyone, to skirt the dillema.
IMO, you can't deny someone Mass..that seems a bit ridiculous to expect a prist to do...Communion however is another story. Wonder what happened.