The Paschal Banquet
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
Sacrifice and Sacrament (1382-1383)
The Mass is both the sacrificial memorial of the cross and a sacred banquet. The Eucharistic celebration is totally directed to the union of the faithful with Christ in Communion.
The altar is both the altar of sacrifice and the table of the Lord. It is the symbol of Christ himself present as both victim and food. "The altar represents the body of Christ and the Body of Christ is on the altar" (St. Ambrose).
The Roman Canon speaks of the offering "borne to your altar in heaven... so that we may receive in communion at this altar the most holy Body and Blood of your Son."
Preparing for Communion (1384-1385)
Jesus said that "unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you" (Jn 6:53).
St. Paul teaches that we must be prepared for Communion. Those who receive Communion "in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord." Before Communion, "Let a man examine himself" (1 Cor 11:27-29). Anyone conscious of a grave sin must receive the sacrament of Reconciliation before receiving Communion.
A Worthy Reception (1386-1387)
Before Communion, the faithful borrow the Centurion's words, "Lord I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof." "Like the good thief I cry ‘Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom'" (St. John Chrysostom).
A worthy reception demands observance of the required fast. Bodily demeanor and proper clothing show respect.
Need to Receive (1388-1389)
The faithful, if properly disposed, should receive Communion every time they participate in Mass. "This more perfect form of participation in the Mass is warmly recommended" (Second Vatican Council).
The faithful must take part in Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation. They are required by Church law (C. 920) to receive Communion once a year. They are encouraged to participate in weekly and even daily Communion.
Under One Species (1390)
Since Christ is sacramentally present under each species, receiving under the species of bread has become the more common form. However, Communion under both forms is a more complete sign of the Eucharistic meal. This is the usual form in Eastern Rites.
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