[sinkspur]

I think most folks would accept it, especially if accompanied by any decent catechesis.

What sort of catechesis would you devise that would explain why, all of a sudden, receiving in the hand, as was the practice of the early Church, is no longer allowed?

I, frankly, wouldn't even attempt it.

I'll bet the bishops are burning up the Congregation of Worship's e-mail boxes in response to this draft.

Somebody released it so that it would be killed.

[sitetest]

Dear sinkspur,

"What sort of catechesis would you devise..."

Well, I'm not a theologian, and I also would disagree with the change. But if I were a theologian called upon to defend it, I'd simply say that though there is nothing doctrinally wrong with the practice, it is a matter of discipline, and thus mostly susceptible to arguments from prudence.

I'd continue that in the years since the practice was introduced, it hasn't substantially increased reverence for the Blessed Sacrament, or effected any other desired outcome, but in many cases has led to abuses.

I'd then remind folks that in matters of discipline, not just matters of faith and morals, we are bound by the instructions of our sacred pastors, and that's that.


sitetst