Holy Communion in Eastern Catholic Churches

[MarkHilston25]

I was wondering if I would have to consult the priest before the liturgy to recieve communion if he does not know me. I read somewhere that this is true with the Orthodox Church. Is this true with Eastern Catholic Churches such as the Byzantine Catholics.

 

[Stephentlig]

When I first met Fr.Serge ( Eternal Memory ) I introduced myself first. It is the appropriate thing to do I think. It is also a good way of protecting the Holy Gifts.

But sadly, even in Roman Churches, when the crowd is so big, there is never any way of knowing whats happening. But I think anyone who has respect for the Holy Eucharist will speak with the priest beforehand, it’s also a good way of getting to know the community too.

 

[ByzCathCantor]

Perhaps not a requirement, but a good idea to introduce yourself beforehand if possible.

Eastern Catholic parishes tend to be smaller, close knit communities, like many Orthodox parishes. The priest will call parishioners and regular guests by name when receiving the Holy Eucharist, as is our custom. So, at the very least, it will allow for a more complete and proper Eucharistic experience for you.

If it is clear that many visitors are in church, priests will typically make an announcement regarding the manner of reception of the Holy Eucharist, along with a polite reminder that one must be properly disposed. If you are the sole visitor that day, with an introduction, the priest might bring it up privately, but they always welcome a respectful question on the subject.

Hope you have the opportunity at some point in the near future to experience an Eastern Catholic Divine Liturgy!

 

[ConstantineTG]

I was wondering if I would have to consult the priest before the liturgy to recieve communion if he does not know me. I read somewhere that this is true with the Orthodox Church. Is this true with Eastern Catholic Churches such as the Byzantine Catholics.

Better if you do. Although some wouldn’t ask questions, others would. Many Eastern Catholic parishes are small and close (as in tight-knit) communities where they know one another so they may want to know if the stranger is Catholic and not just someone who accidentally wandered into their parish.

 

[MarkHilston25]

Thanks everyone. I will introduce myself to the priest before the liturgy and tell him I am catholic and am interested in the Byzantine Rite. I’m glad I asked because I have never been and I don’t want to offend anyone or leave a bad impression. I’m trying to learn all I can.

 

[Catholic80]

I was wondering if I would have to consult the priest before the liturgy to recieve communion if he does not know me. I read somewhere that this is true with the Orthodox Church. Is this true with Eastern Catholic Churches such as the Byzantine Catholics.

From my understanding, Roman Catholics can receive in Greek Catholic, Ukrainian Catholic, Maronite and the like, because they are all under the Pope and all Catholic. Orthodox is where we would have to get permission because while we believe their Eucharist is valid, they are not under Rome and their teaching are different.

 

[MarkHilston25]

I know that I am allowed to receive there and that I can’t in an Orthodox church,I was just wondering if it was the proper thing to do or if it was some kind of rule that guests or church members of other parish or rite speak with priest before
receiving. It may or may not be true but I read in another thread that this is true in the Orthodox church. Considering their traditions are so similar I wasn’t sure if Eastern Catholics were the same. And also because they call you by name when you are administered the Eucharist. Thank you though, I understand people confuse the two churches.

 

[ConstantineTG]

Many Eastern Catholic Churches don’t really expect guests, especially of people from different ethnicities. So it is just polite if you introduce yourself being a guest.

I once entered an Orthodox parish just to visit and participate in Vespers. I walked around and looked around before entering the nave and I bumped into the priest. Which is good, I introduced myself and let him know I am an Eastern Catholic. He invited me to partake of the Litya bread and wine after the service. I know it is okay because it is not communion but it is better that the priest himself has invited me.