Spem in alium Posted July 30, 2012 Share Posted July 30, 2012 Probably a silly and very pointless question, but I just wanted to get some clear advice. I try to go to Mass a couple of times a week at least. It's a long story, but instead of receiving Communion this morning I chose to be blessed by my priest. I do not believe I've committed a mortal sin; I just didn't feel worthy of the Eucharist for a few reasons. I know none of us are really worthy, but my feeling today was so strong. It was hard not to receive Jesus but in hindsight I feel as though I made the right choice. The next time I'm most likely able to go to Reconciliation is this weekend. My local church offers it once a week, and my ability to travel to other churches in my area is limited. I want to attend Mass again during the week, but I'm just curious: Is it acceptable for me to continue to receive blessings until I go to Reconciliation this weekend? Or would I be able to receive Communion if I combined prayer and penance without actually being absolved by a priest? I'd just like to make sure I do things the right way. Thanks for your time, God bless Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cappie Posted July 30, 2012 Share Posted July 30, 2012 It seems that this practice developed mainly to make people feel good, which isn’t the point of any of the rites of Mass. Receiving a blessing is not the same as receiving Communion. The practice therefore is not well-proportioned to the dignity of that moment at Mass. The Congregation for Divine Worship sent a letter (Prot. No. 930/08/L) with observations about this practice. NB: this was a private response, not an official. But it’s not nothing. The letter states the obvious. The moment for a blessing during Mass is at the end. That being said, I don’t believe there is an official condemnation of this practice from the Congregation. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CatherineM Posted July 30, 2012 Share Posted July 30, 2012 When I am not receiving communion for whatever reason, I simply do not approach the altar. The thing about getting blessings is so people don't feel funny about getting left behind in the pew. I don't like the practice, especially when it is being done by an EMHC. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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