Might Be A Weird Question, But... Receiving The Eucharist On The Tongu

[LittleWaySoul]

So lately I've decided to switch from being handed the Eucharist to receiving it in the more traditional way. But in doing so, I've found it to be extremely awkward for me. I feel like I'm doing it all wrong. I mean, is there any one correct way to do this? Maybe I'm doing something wrong... I still want to give it a shot, so it'd be razzle dazzle to hear some input on this. Maybe some history on each practice might be useful as well. Is there one way that is better or means a specific thing? Sorry for so many questions... I'm just so curious/interested in/about this. Thanks!!

[Jaime]

According to Church teachings,
[quote]the best way to receive on the tongue is to keep your head slightly tilted back no more than -87 degree position. Prior to the reception of the Eucharist the mouth should not be open more than 8.5 centimeters in width with the Median Sulcus of the tongue in a docile and reverent position. While the mouth should be moist, it should not be overly vaporous for the Body of Christ[/quote]


I'm kidding. The only advice I've given people is "Don't stick your tongue out. Just open your mouth and let the Eucharistic minister do their job". That seems to work well for folks. Then you don't have to worry about licking anyone.

[cappie]

When I made my First Holy Communion back before most of you were born (1961) the only way to receive Holy Communion was kneeling and on the tongue. We were taught: Hold your head up (we were kneeling remember) keep your eyes closed, your mouth well open, and your tongue out resting on your bottom lip. Then with great outward reverence, receive the sacred host, saying in your heart, with all the faith of St Thomas: My Lord and my God.

It is necessary not to forget, that the distribution of Communion on the hand continues to remain, from the juridical standpoint, an exception (indult) to the universal law, conceded by the Holy See to those bishops' conferences who have requested it. So as such it remains just as valid for those areas as those who elect to receive on the tongue.