Holy Communion
While they were eating, Jesus took the bread, gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat it for this is my Body.” Matthew 26:26
Receiving Holy Communion or the Eucharist is central to the Sacramental life of Catholics. Communion is just what the word means, a union between Jesus, each parishioner and the Catholic community which is the Church. It is spiritual food for the journey. We believe that the Sacrament of the Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper when he gave his disciples bread and wine during his last Passover meal. Jesus commanded his disciples to "Do this in memory of me,” and this is what we celebrate at Mass. Catholics see the Mass as a celebration of Christ's sacrifice of himself on the Cross and his commission of the apostles at the Last Supper. We believe that it is this same sacrifice that happens at every Mass.
While most in the congregation will receive Communion at each Mass in which they participate, the reception of Communion for the first time usually by children aged about eight, is a highlight in this and every parish. First Holy Communion day is when children more fully celebrate their development as Christians and is a huge cause for celebration. Children prepare for First Communion over a period of several months and are supported in this by a team of parents and parishioners (catechists) who will meet regularly with the children to help develop their faith in Jesus. Arrangements for participation in this programme will be available around the time that churches reopen.
Usual practice is for all who choose to receive Communion to do so in the form of the Host, and for many to receive from the chalice as well. In this the Priest celebrant is assisted by Ministers of the Eucharist who may also take the Eucharist to those who are sick and housebound.
Should one of your family or a friend ask to receive Communion at home, please let Father John know after Mass on Sundays; or send an email to Father John (parish@st-catherines-didsbury.co.uk).
While most in the congregation will receive Communion at each Mass in which they participate, the reception of Communion for the first time usually by children aged about eight, is a highlight in this and every parish. First Holy Communion day is when children more fully celebrate their development as Christians and is a huge cause for celebration. Children prepare for First Communion over a period of several months and are supported in this by a team of parents and parishioners (catechists) who will meet regularly with the children to help develop their faith in Jesus. Arrangements for participation in this programme will be available around the time that churches reopen.
Usual practice is for all who choose to receive Communion to do so in the form of the Host, and for many to receive from the chalice as well. In this the Priest celebrant is assisted by Ministers of the Eucharist who may also take the Eucharist to those who are sick and housebound.
Should one of your family or a friend ask to receive Communion at home, please let Father John know after Mass on Sundays; or send an email to Father John (parish@st-catherines-didsbury.co.uk).
This means that every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 1 Corinthians 11:26