Mass & Worship
Can non-Catholics receive Communion at a Catholic Mass?
💬Answer
Generally, no. The Catholic Church practices 'closed Communion,' meaning only Catholics in a state of grace may receive the Eucharist. This is because: (1) Catholics believe Communion is the Body and Blood of Christ — receiving it implies full agreement with Catholic teaching. (2) Communion signifies full ecclesial communion with the Catholic Church. (3) Receiving unworthily is warned against in Scripture (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). Non-Catholics are welcome to attend Mass and are encouraged to come forward during Communion with arms crossed over their chest to receive a blessing instead. In rare, specific circumstances (danger of death), an Eastern Orthodox Christian may receive Catholic Communion. Catholics should also not receive Communion at non-Catholic services.
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