Holy Communion: Hands Off

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Holy Communion is that sublime moment when, in awe of God's gift of Himself under such a humble form, we should tremble in fear (awe, profound respect) and kneel before the Lord our Maker.

Can anyone seriously argue that communion in the hand (CITH) has not drastically obscured the true nature of the august Sacrament? Or, for that matter, can anyone seriously argue that CITH has led to an increase in reverence for the Blessed Sacrament?

Proverbs 9:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.
A viewing of the "communion line" on the occasion of the Dedication of Christ Cathedral (Diocese of Orange), the former Crystal Cathedral founded by Dr. Robert Schuller, tends to confirm the need for due reverence for the Blessed Sacrament. Communicants were handed the Sacred Host and, with few beautiful, reverent exceptions, proceeded with casual indifference.

Shoppers show more decorum in a grocery store checkout line than many if not most of the communicants during a typical Sunday Mass. External behavour reveals a great deal about a person's thoughts, character and priorities.

Saint Matthew 7:18-20
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
For those who have the privilege of receiving the Body of Christ, which is a/the most awesome entrance into the mystery of our redemption, the most sublime encounter with the risen Jesus this side of heaven, ordained by Jesus Christ for the salvation of souls, surely we should promote the practice of communion on the tongue, the most fitting way to receive the Blessed Sacrament.

The Diocese of Orange dedication of Christ Cathedral, which contained many praiseworthy elements, was severely disappointing because of the lack of reverence shown toward our Lord at the summit of the worshiper's encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ in the one eternal Sacrifice of the Mass.

A grand edifice such as a cathedral, which should "incarnate" the timeless elements that make a cathedral Catholic, should at the same time enhance our ability to worship God in the beauty of holiness (Ps 96:9). Perhaps a major re-think is necessary to preserve the sanctity of each and every solemn occasion when God offers us the divine Food we need to live lives of gratitude and hope.

Witness the beauty and goodness of communicants receiving Holy Communion in a manner befitting the dignity of the Sacrament and the dignity of the christian who submits himself in humble adoration of his Saviour.

Evening Mass for the 5th Anniversary
of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of the Southern Cross
fast forward to 1:13:00

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