Is it proper to go up for a blessing when not receiving Communion?

[Joysong]

Our apologist, Jimmy Akin, has an article on this subject:

It is possible that Pope Benedict will take up the subject in his Post-Synodal Exhortation, which should be released within a year or so. If he does take it up (and I’m not saying that he will) then my guess is that he will approve the practice for precisely the reasons that the bishops’ responses spoke positively of it–that it will relieve social pressure to receive Communion for those who are not able to receive, thus resulting in fewer sacrilegious receptions of Communion (something that the synod fathers were very concerned about).

It is also possible, giving how widespread this practice is, that the Congregation for Divine Worship may weigh in on it. If that happens, it could either approve or disapprove of it.

In reading the last paragraph above with regard to being “widespread,” I noticed the practice during the EWTN televised liturgies, though I have not observed this in any churches that I attended. Since this broadcast reaches the world over, it might be good to contact them and ask why they allow the blessing. Apparently there is no present ruling on this according to the above article and the very orthodox priests at EWTN.

Jimmy also gave some principles to keep in mind for any who are interested.

 

[AngelRose81]

Just a side note to the topic. I’m currently in RCIA and when we did our section on the Mass and the Eucharist, we were encouraged to go to receive a blessing during communion. I have actually never thought anything wrong with it, simply because it was encouraged. There reasoning on having us go to receive the blessing was so that we could be better prepared in how to receive the Eucharist once we are in full communion after the Easter Vigil. Personally I do go go in the line because of this. I think it will make me appreciate the fact that after the Easter Vigil I will be able to receive Our Lord and be in full commion with the Church. I am looking forward to that day and can’t wait until it is here. Today during Mass I thought about how wonderful that will be and I almost cried because I know I can’t recieve Him yet. Like I said, I’m so looking forward to the Easter Vigil!!!

Also, I have heard that in some other countries that after the line is done for the Eucharist, another line is begun and this is the “Blessing only” line for those who have sinned and not yet confessed, those not in full communion, etc. One of the RCIA team members went on a mission trip to Haiti and this was done there. So I wonder if that could be an option in some parishes here in the US.

 

[MusicMan]

Also, I have heard that in some other countries that after the line is done for the Eucharist, another line is begun and this is the “Blessing only” line for those who have sinned and not yet confessed,

This seems silly to me. Go to confession and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Why do we need these “touchy-feely” lines for people to get a “consolation prize” instead of being properly disposed to receive the Eucharist.

I can understand where RCIA folks and small children might be benefitted by being able to receive a blessing, but for people not in the proper state of grace to receive? Please.

 

[Lepanto]

Those who can not receive communion are supposed to remain in the pews and pray for the day when they can.

Minutes after communion finishes, the ENTIRE congregation receives a blessing from the priest at the dismissal.

 

[Saoirse]

one of my good friends talked me into going up to recieve a blessing at a school MASS once (the priest always explains how to get just a blessing at the school liturgies), and I decided to go up even though I was scared of the priest(and sure in the thought that this Christian God had to hate me).

that blessing converted me. or at least played a major role in my conversion experience.

I’m in RCIA this year, and I always go up for a blessing.

that’s all I’m going to say.

 

[chicago]

…then my guess is that he will approve the practice for precisely the reasons that the bishops’ responses spoke positively of it–that it will relieve social pressure to receive Communion for those who are not able to receive, thus resulting in fewer sacrilegious receptions of Communion (something that the synod fathers were very concerned about).

Wouldn’t this create yet another social pressure? If someone went up over a period of time for a “blessing” or then chose to remain in the pew, anyway, might they not still stand out? I’m not against offering a blessing to one who chooses to approach and can’t receive, but I’m not sure it ought to be standardized as a practice, either.

 

[puzzleannie]

How would I go about getting blessed during communion if I’m not able to receive the Eucharist at this time?

everyone in the Church receives a blessing, it is called the final blessing at dismissal. There is no need to come forward for an individual blessing, that is redundant, and is not part of the liturgy. You will receive great spiritual benefit from remaining in prayer, singing the hymn if you like, and uniting your heart with all present in spiritual communion with Christ. During this time you pray with longing to become closer to the time you can receive.

then on Monday morning you call your parish office and ask how to join a class to prepare for first communion and confirmation with others of you age group. You will be surprised at how many people are in a similar situation and who, like you, are responding to the action of the Holy Spirit in their hearts to come for the sacraments at this time. Welcome home.

 

[RThunder]

Can one proceed to the altar and receive a blessing from the priest when communion is not allowed?

I am forbidden from receiving Communion. Long ago my wife of 8 years had an affair and left me. We divorced. I subsequently remarried. Within the last few years I have had a resurgence of spirituality. This led to my attending non-catholic churches, but there is a deep longing in my heart to “return home.” To a divorced and remarried Catholic, that means, coming into the house, but sleeping in the basement. For we can attend Mass, but not receive Communion.

Today someone said they saw people at a Palm Sunday service cross their arms at the altar, and were blessed by the Priest, instead of being given Communion. Is that what one is supposed to do? Is there basis in Canon Law? Attending service is very painful, but being able to approach the altar with others and receive a blessing would be enriching.

Christ is Risen!
Christ is Risen, Indeed!

 

[PatienceAndLove]

My parish does this, but not all do.
I am not sure on the licitness of this practice, but I know that it is widespread. However, a blessing can only be given by a priest or a deacon, not by a lay minister (which shouldn’t be used anyway, unless it’s an emergency, but that’s a different thread)

 

[Della]

Not to take the thread off topic, but have you applied for an anullment of your first marriage? You might have grounds for one. Talk to your priest about it, if you haven’t.

As I understand it, receiving a blessing instead of receiving communion varies from one parish to another. Some do it, others don’t. Check with your parish on that one.

 

[RThunder]

Not to take the thread off topic, but have you applied for an anullment of your first marriage? You might have grounds for one. Talk to your priest about it, if you haven’t. .

I have not. I am learning more about it. I understand I must provide documentation and witnesses for the inquisition. It was long ago and I can’t even imagine who would testify for me. Apparently it also costs money and takes a long time. If anyone has had it done I would appreciate any insight or suggestions, perhaps by E-mail if privacy is preferred.

God Bless You

 

[ricmat]

At our parish, we had both priests and lay ministers giving blessings on request (arms folded across chest).

However, we sent some high school kids to Rome last summer and at mass at the Vatican (and maybe elsewhere), when some students approched the priest to request a blessing, the priests refused to do it.

So now blessings are being given in our parish only to pre-1st communioni children.

 

[auberginecow]

I have not. I am learning more about it. I understand I must provide documentation and witnesses for the inquisition. It was long ago and I can’t even imagine who would testify for me. Apparently it also costs money and takes a long time. If anyone has had it done I would appreciate any insight or suggestions, perhaps by E-mail if privacy is preferred.

God Bless You

I am in the same place as you. It’s been 13 years since I’ve been able to receive the Sacraments. I have also tried attending non Catholic churches, but the Spirit that moved me to convert in the first place keeps calling me home.

I did try to obtain an annulment, but because of an uncooperative ex (who is also remarried but takes communion anyhow) and an utter lack of records and witnesses, it hasn’t been possible. It’s hard for me to accept that I even need one, as neither he nor I were Catholic when we married in a civil ceremony, but I have been assured over and over again that it’s necessary…So I sit and I pray and I wait, saddened by my separation and scared knowing what will happen if I die in this state…

I have never gone up for a blessing myself, as I try to keep my head down during NO communion when I go, as it makes me weep to see the abuses that take place…if people were forced to abstain from receiving our Lord as I have been for so many years, perhaps they wouldn’t receive in the hand, and hopefully they would act/dress more reverently…who knows…

Anyhow, hang in there, I will pray for you, and I ask your prayers for me…

 

[BlestOne]

1. 
   *]it is not an inquisition
   *]it is worth the fee
   *]the questions they ask aren’t what you expect…
   *]have faith
   *]witnesses are just people that knew you and your spouse during the time of your marriage. I had my sister and my exSIL for witnesses.
   *]your ex can choose to testify or not it is their option
   *]the tribunal is smarter than you think.

 

[RThunder]

I am in the same place as you. It’s been 13 years since I’ve been able to receive the Sacraments. I have also tried attending non Catholic churches, but the Spirit that moved me to convert in the first place keeps calling me home.

It is true. Even though many non-denominational churches are lively and spirited, they lack the rich tradition to which a Catholic is accustomed.

I guess the blessing thing is just a bad idea. I will continue to just say my daily prayers and rosary. And I will pray for you and everyone in our position.

 

[RThunder]

1. 
   *]witnesses are just people that knew you and your spouse during the time of your marriage. I had my sister and my exSIL for witnesses.

1. 
   Thank you for your post. Do the witnesses have to attend? What if the witnesses are not Catholic or even religious.
   
   I am happy for you!
   Thanks again for your encouragement.

 

[YADA]

Marriage tribunals are present in every diocese. Contact you parish priest and begin the procss. No diocese will turn away an annullment request due to inability to pay. However, please know that there ar costs associated with the process. I actually do not think that the costs associated with the process [in most diocese] cover all of the related costs but are used to offset the costs and assure that the tribunals ar able to function.

I was like one poster, an non catholic married to a non catholic in a civil ceremony and needed to obtain a decree of nullity. My husband also needed to obtain one. So there is experience with two annullment processes. My ex was also uncooperative.

Working with RCIA for the last decade plus I also have experience with many annullment processes. Some decres are granted and some are not. Decrees of Nullity are granted if there aree grounds establishing a lack in the original marriage.

If both parties fully were aware of what the marriage vows are, were free to marry and freely consented then it is probably not going to be determined that a sacramental marriage did not take place. Only the tribunal can determine [from the evidence presented] if there is a valid marriage or not. They use the answers to the questions and the documentation to make that determination. Unless you begin the process you can not gain the answer [no matter what the decision is]

I have been where many of you are, attending mass and unable to receive the Eucharist. But I encourage you to keep attending, get as close to Jesus as you can, participate as fully as you are able, gain the graces that are available and you never know what may happen; God truly works in ways mysterious to man.

An aside, I met a man oncce who attended mass daily. He was one of the most beautiful souls I have ever known. He never recieved communion. One day I asked him why. He had married [late in life] a divorced catholic. I asked him if she had ever applied for an annullment. He said no and she would not. She was also a very lovely woman. A two time breast cancer survivor. Thay had been married over thirty years. Her first cancer had come shortly after they married. A few years later he asked me to pray for a friend of theres who had sugery. Later in the week he mentioned their friend had died. A week or so later when he was talking to me I came to realize that the friend who had died was her ex husband… It took a few months and friendlly prodding but they both were reunited with the Eucharist and for the last t year or two of their lives were able to recieve all of the sacraments. Thirty years of masses, daily once he retired, praying for others and being in the presence of our Lord…that is dedication, faith and trust. I share their story to give you hope and from their spot in heaven I hope they don’t mind. PS I was a witness to the blessing of thier marriage and what a gift that was to me. God Bless you Charles and Angela…

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

Can one proceed to the altar and receive a blessing from the priest when communion is not allowed?

I am forbidden from receiving Communion. Long ago my wife of 8 years had an affair and left me. We divorced. I subsequently remarried. Within the last few years I have had a resurgence of spirituality. This led to my attending non-catholic churches, but there is a deep longing in my heart to “return home.” To a divorced and remarried Catholic, that means, coming into the house, but sleeping in the basement. For we can attend Mass, but not receive Communion.

Today someone said they saw people at a Palm Sunday service cross their arms at the altar, and were blessed by the Priest, instead of being given Communion. Is that what one is supposed to do? Is there basis in Canon Law? Attending service is very painful, but being able to approach the altar with others and receive a blessing would be enriching.

Christ is Risen!
Christ is Risen, Indeed!

Some pastors have allowed this. You will not find it in any official documents of the Church. The documents all state that one who is aware of mortal sin or has not fasted for the one hour should not approach Holy Communion. To me “Approach” means not to approach even for a blessing. I would also wonder what value a Blessing would have for a person in a state of Mortal sin? You should speak with your pastor and have the prior Marriage looked into before deciding on any other course.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

I am in the same place as you. It’s been 13 years since I’ve been able to receive the Sacraments. I have also tried attending non Catholic churches, but the Spirit that moved me to convert in the first place keeps calling me home.

I did try to obtain an annulment, but because of an uncooperative ex (who is also remarried but takes communion anyhow) and an utter lack of records and witnesses, it hasn’t been possible. It’s hard for me to accept that I even need one, as neither he nor I were Catholic when we married in a civil ceremony, but I have been assured over and over again that it’s necessary…So I sit and I pray and I wait, saddened by my separation and scared knowing what will happen if I die in this state…

I have never gone up for a blessing myself, as I try to keep my head down during NO communion when I go, as it makes me weep to see the abuses that take place…if people were forced to abstain from receiving our Lord as I have been for so many years, perhaps they wouldn’t receive in the hand, and hopefully they would act/dress more reverently…who knows…

Anyhow, hang in there, I will pray for you, and I ask your prayers for me…

I cannot accept that an uncooperative ex would stop an Annulment. Public records are always available and witnesses can be provided, they may be difficult to find but then that is not your responsibility. You need to provide the name and best/ last known address/phone number and the investigators will do the rest.

Two non-Catholics may validly Marry in a Civil Cermony. It sounds from your post that the two of you became Catholic before being divorced but after the Marriage. It would be assumed that the Marriage would have been looked into and would have been accepted as valid by the Church when you became Catholic.

 

[BobP123]

I am in the same place as you. It’s been 13 years since I’ve been able to receive the Sacraments. I have also tried attending non Catholic churches, but the Spirit that moved me to convert in the first place keeps calling me home.

I did try to obtain an annulment, but because of an uncooperative ex (who is also remarried but takes communion anyhow) and an utter lack of records and witnesses, it hasn’t been possible. It’s hard for me to accept that I even need one, as neither he nor I were Catholic when we married in a civil ceremony, but I have been assured over and over again that it’s necessary…So I sit and I pray and I wait, saddened by my separation and scared knowing what will happen if I die in this state…

I have never gone up for a blessing myself, as I try to keep my head down during NO communion when I go, as it makes me weep to see the abuses that take place…if people were forced to abstain from receiving our Lord as I have been for so many years, perhaps they wouldn’t receive in the hand, and hopefully they would act/dress more reverently…who knows…

Anyhow, hang in there, I will pray for you, and I ask your prayers for me…

Being divorced doesn’t mean you’re in the state of mortal sin. In fact, it doesn’t mean you can’t receive the sacraments. Yes, an annulment is necessary if you desire to get remarried but you can make this case when you do file. Try a different diocese maybe? You do have my prayers because your heart(s) seem to be in the right place.

I’ve gone through the process myself and it’s a very healing one. There is an extremely long questionnaire and a followup one probably. Questions include your overall habits and history as well as that of your parents and sibling. That’s the easy part. The same questions are asked of you about your ex’s habits and history and his/her parents and siblings. Important thing to know is that you don’t have any deadlines on this. Work on maybe two or three questions a day using a word processor. Getting two or three people as witnesses isn’t that bad, even your neighbors or fellow parishioners who’ve only known you and your ex a couple of years will probably gladly accept. This is not designed to be cost-prohibitive either. If you can’t afford it, about $300, the Church will waive the fee. The fee also includes a church-appointed psychologist but that is toward the end sometime. Give the entire process about three years and you’ll be better for it.