Prayer and reading guides · English

Receiving Holy Communion: How to Prepare

At the heart of the Divine Liturgy, the Church receives the Body and Blood of Christ. Communion is not a reward for the perfect. It is food for the journey, given to those who have prepared with humility. If you are new, take your time, and talk with your priest about when you are ready.

Who receives

Communion is for baptized Orthodox Christians who have prepared with their father of confession. If you are not there yet, you are still welcome to pray with the church, and many parishes share blessed bread with everyone at the end of the service.

How to prepare

Preparation has three simple parts.

• Confession. Speak with your father of confession as he advises, so you come with a clear heart.
• Fasting. Follow the Church's custom of fasting before Communion. Ask your priest what this means for you, especially if you have health needs.
• Prayer. Spend a few minutes in prayer, perhaps with the prayers before Communion found in the Agpeya tradition. Ask for forgiveness, and forgive others.

Tip: Make peace with anyone you are at odds with before you come.

At church

Arrive on time so you can pray the whole service, not only the end. Stand with the others and take part in the prayers. When it is time, follow the instruction of the servants, and come forward with reverence.

Afterwards

Stay a few minutes after the service. Give thanks in your own words, or with the thanksgiving prayers your church provides. Carry the peace of the service into the rest of your day.

Try this: On the way home, keep the car quiet or talk about something good you heard in the readings.

When you cannot receive

There may be times you are not able to receive, whether because you have not prepared or because of circumstances. Do not feel ashamed. Stay and pray, and speak with your father of confession about what to do next.

Quick questions

How long should I fast before Communion?

This is a question for your father of confession, who can guide you for your health and your life.

What if I forgot to fast?

Tell your priest honestly, and follow his guidance.

Can children receive?

Yes. Baptized children receive Communion. Ask your priest about your parish's practice.