ASCENT TO MOUNT CARMEL has a very interesting post called Receiving in the Hand.
I agree with most of his points even though I receive on the tongue. I just think it is more reverent( that is for me) . However, I am not one these Catholics that make this a big issue. I know some do but I think they are missing the point.
I like how he brings up the fact that every tiny particle is Jesus. If this future priest attitude was taken by most clergy I don' think there would be a ruckus over this.
Can Communion in the hand be Reverent and in fact prayer? Sure it can. I am struck by this ancient text from the Church Fathers.
That is wonderful. The problem is how many people have that attitude. I guess besides my own feeling that I show reverence for taking on the tongue I have to admit maybe what is going on around me might be a factor. That is this isn't just a piece of fried chicken I am about to eat from Popeyes but GOD. Therefore perhaps I am trying to make a public witness by taking on the tongue that some different is going on here in yes our small very ordinary vanilla southern town.
Just give me Altar Rails back and I will be happy :)
1 comment:
But taking it on the tongue won't change their attitude? There's no huge cultural cue that says being fed is a sign of the incredible preciousness of the food...we don't have people hand feed us caviar, for example.
I go back to Mark 7:19 - don't worry about the externals (like clean hands), says Christ, worry about what is in your heart!
Altar rails or not -- don't think it makes a whit of difference in the reverence people will bring...
And I say this, noting that I have upon occasion been moved to pray prostrate in front of the Sacrament -- so I understand being bowled over by His real presence
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