Can a mentally disabled person receive the sacraments?

[CJE]

This question is along the same lines as my previous question.

My daughter was baptized Catholic as an infant. However, can she receive the Eucharist or be confirmed?

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Dear CJ,

It depends on how mentally disabled the person is. For the reception of Holy Communion, the person must have reached the age of reason, which is usually understood to be seven years old.

There are classes in most dioceses for mentally disabled persons (usually older) who qualify.

The sacrament of Confirmation is currently given to teenagers as they prepare for adulthood. Again some mentally disabled persons can qualify for this, depending on the extent of their disability.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.