Christian Unity
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
Intercommunion with Orthodox (1399)
Members of Eastern Churches which are separated from Rome but possess true sacraments and apostolic succession are encouraged to receive Eucharist and other sacraments "given suitable circumstances and the approval of Church authority" (Canon 844,#3).
With Other Churches (1400)
Unfortunately, Eucharistic intercommunion is not possible with Ecclesial communities which have not preserved the proper reality of the Eucharist, especially because of the absence of Holy Orders. However, their commemoration of Christ's death and Resurrection in the Holy Supper does signify life in communion with Christ and their awaiting for his coming.
In Grave Necessity (1401)
Catholic ministers can give the sacraments of Eucharist, Penance, and Anointing of the Sick in a grave necessity (determined by the Ordinary) to other Christians not in full communion with the Catholic Church who ask for them, are properly disposed, and have Catholic faith regarding these sacraments (Canon 844, #4).
Anticipating Heavenly Glory (1402-1403)
In the Eucharist "the soul is filled with grace and a pledge of life to come is given to us (Ancient prayer). The Eucharist anticipates heavenly glory.
At the Last Supper, Jesus said that he would not drink this cup "until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom" (Mt 26:29). At every Eucharist, the Church looks to him who is to come. "May your grace come and the world pass away" (Didache).
Our Sign of Hope (1404-1405)
We await "the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ" and look forward to "that day when we shall see you, our God, as you are."
The Eucharist is our surest sign of hope in the new heavens and the new earth. "The Eucharist is the medicine of immortality, the antidote for death, the food that makes us live forever in Jesus Christ" (St. Ignatius of Antioch).
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