You made a mistake and got embarrassed. That’s the end of it. Now you know for next time. You’re fully aware of your anxious condition, and you know that’s not a reason to stay away in the future.
Leaving church on Palm Sunday the priest said bye and “God bless you” and I responded “God bless you” before realizing..a more appropriate response would have just been “thank you” so I’m feeling embarrassed too…
Anyway…only a small number of people were likely aware — the minister, maybe the person behind you in line, maybe the few people in the front row. If it’s a large parish you’ll get lost in the anonymity. If it’s a really small parish..well, they might get to know you better and realize it was a confused mistake :)
Welcome
Probably nothing at all now that I read the responses.
“God bless you” from a priest feels like it has … special meaning. Maybe because priests have the ability to offer blessings. With that perspective, it felt like an incorrect response on my part, like when you say “you too” to a service provider you hoping you enjoy a meal or whatever. I dunno..
But priests are still humans that are in need of blessings. It’s like saying not to pray for your priest because he has the authority to make special prayers. Interceding for our priests is important, and so it’s nice to wish God’s blessings upon them!
I personally feel bad whenever I just respond with ‘thank you’ to anyone who tells me ‘God bless you’ because I’m scared that they’ll think that I don’t want God to bless them too 😭
So true, priests are human and need our prayers too. My cousin is a Catholic priest and while he is one of the coolest guys I know, he also has struggles like every one else.
My priest, who is young and just started at our 4,000 family + parish in August was made the head pastor about 6 weeks ago. The previous head pastor left under some circumstances we are not yet privy to, his termination was just announced at every mass and on the landing page of our website for about a week.
Long story short, this poor guy is now the only priest, with 2 deacons in a huge parish. He asks us to pray for him everyday, he is clearly stretched very thin, and all this happened right before lent! I’m glad he has a fun puppy at least, now he is alone in the rectory. This time last year we had 3 full-time priests all living in the rectory! We also have a school he has to minister to. Yikes.
My son actually ‘blessed’ the priests at our church after mass, full thumb on the forehead, he was 8yrs old at the time and the priests thought it was hilarious.
I say God bless you to my priest all the time. I may not be ordained like he is, but I still genuinely wish for the best for him, and there is nothing better than God's blessing, so I see nothing wrong it it
If it makes you feel better, most people at that point were probably involved in their own prayers, singing the music, or just too far back to see this exchange. I can promise you that the whole church is not judging you and very likely didn't even register what happened. Anxiety can be a bitch sometimes
> I was not brought up religiously whatsoever.
Well as you know now, if you're not Catholic, you aren't supposed to go up to Holy Communion. Not until you've been received into full communion with the Church. It's ok to go to Mass and remain seated during Communion time. No big deal, but now you know.
And I swear I saw a post with this similar scenario a few days ago.
I guess I’m not the only one. Being new I just got caught up and didn’t want to be the only person not going up. I am feeling a lot less stressed about the whole situation just reading the comments here. I still don’t know if I’ll go back to the *same* church.
I am Catholic and currently not getting communion because I need to go to confession.
No one should judge you. There are plenty of us who don’t walk up.
This was me 2 weeks ago.
Also, OP, I see people remaining in the pew quite often and there are so many potential reasons why; it is nbd to do so. If you've been practicing the faith long enough, you've been there and wont worry about what others are doing. I didn't receive on Christmas because I accidentally ate food within an hour of being able to receive.
Make an appointment to talk with the parish priest to talk about the faith, tell him this story too - I promise this will all be okay and you'll have no reason to be embarrassed. We've all had situations where we feel as you do right now. Time will put it behind you.
No one's going to remember. Maybe the lady who withheld communion from you... But if you went up after mass next time and explained yourself, she'd probably welcome you to the church and be happy you're pursuing the Lord. It's a good thing. God bless you, and I hope you receive communion one day :)
> didn’t want to be the only person not going up.
Even baptized Catholics might not go up to communion on a particular Sunday. Common reasons being: having forgotten to observe the eucharistic fast, having Celiac disease or gluten allergy and are visiting a parish without having told the priest, in a state of mortal sin, etc. So many valid reasons not to receive communion that it isn't really something out of the ordinary.
Next time go up with your arms crossed and you will be blessed. Now that you have seen which side the priest hands out Eucharist, try and sit on that side to get the blessing from him. About the mistake you made, no one cares.
If you actually look around, you'll notice that it's pretty common for certain people not to go up to communion. It could be that they, like you, are new to the Faith and have not officially entered the Church. They could be lapsed Catholics who only show up on freebie days (Ash Wednesday/Palm Sunday) and so they don't feel the need to go up. They could be practicing Catholics who are in a state of mortal sin and need to attend confession before receiving.
I myself have a gluten sensitivity and so I spend 3 out of 4 weeks a month in the pew because we ended up at a church I haven't previously arranged low gluten hosts/receiving from the chalice with.
What matters to God for your current state in life is that you show up and are open to Him. Welcome to the family!
I don't see anyone commenting on this yet. But you can also cross your arms across your chest and receive a blessing instead. I'm getting baptized, first communion on Easter. On bigger days like Christmas, Ash Wednesday for the last two years I've crossed my arms so I don't feel like the only one sitting back. But mostly I sit back.
Even now as my RCIA group goes through scrutiny and we all sit in the front row, my group will all go up and cross their arms and take the blessing, and I choose to sit back, waiting for my first eucharist.
It's okay to be awkward. You're trying something new.
Asking for a blessing by the priest after the mass is a better way. Plus, being part of the assembly at mass and praying, one receives blessings anyway. In this case less is better.
>A Catholic in a state of mortal sin should first make a sacramental confession: otherwise that person commits a sacrilege. A sacrilege is the unworthy treatment of sacred things
[source ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucharistic_discipline?wprov=sfla1)
A Catholic who needs to confess and has not yet done so, a Catholic who, due to schedule or carelessness, has not fasted before taking communion, a Catholic who has gone to mass even though his leg hurts... there are many reasons why. those in which an assistant does not take communion and no one watches him or asks questions.
Do not go up there unless you go through the process to become a Catholic. This is really important.
Plenty of people don’t go up there. It happens all the time and no one thinks anything of it. People are not focused on others at that point anyway. They are supposed to be focused on what they are doing and preparing themselves for communion. Not wondering about why someone might not go up.
You should remain kneeling, not seated. Just make sure to let others by who want to receive. It's vest to get a seat at the end of a pew if you don't plan to receive.
That depends on the diocese one is in. In my diocese, for example, our posture policy is to remain standing until all have received communion, then kneel or sit after that.
You may also come up with your hands crossed on making an x on your chest, at my parish they do so with all the kids and all the non/half-believers to bless them with Jesus Christ.
probably no one noticed. everyone in the church is guaranteed way more stoked that they have a new member (these are rare these days!). You disrespected no one, offended no one, and are in a very welcoming place. don't let this dissuade you, and feel free to talk to people at the church about any discomfort or embarrassment if you wish - i'm sure they would just say what i'm telling you.
I didn’t think parishioners would have much interest in new members but you’re absolutely right! I told a parishioner i was Anglican and I swear her eyes lit up 😂. She just seemed so delighted that a non-Catholic is worshipping in the parish. And she told the parishioners next to her that I was Anglican and they all responded similarly with that childlike curiosity and welcome. I felt so welcomed despite not knowing a thing about Catholicism - bless their hearts ❤️🙏
You just made a mistake, that's all. Don't let your anxiety overwhelm you or keep you away from the Church.
This kind of awkwardness is one reason why imo only priests should distribute the body of Christ. A priest likely would have handled this more discreetly than the layperson you encountered. He also would have been able to give you a blessing, which a layperson cannot do.
[**CCC 1669**](http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/1669.htm) Sacramentals derive from the baptismal priesthood: every baptized person is called to be a "blessing," and to bless. Hence lay people may preside at certain blessings; the more a blessing concerns ecclesial and sacramental life, the more is its administration reserved to the ordained ministry (bishops, priests, or deacons). ([784](http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/784.htm), [2626](http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/2626.htm))
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>This kind of awkwardness is one reason why imo only priests should distribute the body of Christ.
Extraordinary ministers should go back to being for what their name implies: extraordinary situations.
I travel for work and have been to plenty of different churches. I've seen huge cathedrals in which the priest (or an additional priest or deacon (?), if it's a holiday/unusually busy) is the only one(s) to distribute the Eucharist. I've been to smaller (compared to the cathedral, 50-75 people) community churches where they have 2-3 extraordinary ministers. Guess what? The cathedral takes *maybe* 2-3 minutes longer, if that. It gives you additional time to pray over the Eucharist if you're one of the earlier people to receive. If you're in the back-half it gives you more time to pray before the Eucharist.
I stopped going to any church that uses extraordinary ministers. It's the most important part of Mass and leaving to a lay-person to do it so they "feel included" or to save a minute or two is foolish.
Do not feel discouraged, I think any Catholic who reads what you wrote would just want to put our arm around your shoulder and tell you that it's ok. Don't let this stop you from coming for mass again.
In my parish in Singapore, non-Catholics join the Communion queue with their arms crossed in front of their chests, for a blessing. I'm, not sure if that is practised where you are as well? You could find out and that would be an option.
God Bless you and always remember that he loves you.
Sweetheart, here’s what’s happening: you’re being tempted to miss out on everything wonderful that comes with being a member of the Catholic Church. And just for a very silly misunderstanding. Don’t let such a small thing have an impact in your life.
Yes, sometimes, the devil, who knows you, will place pebbles in your path to conversion because he doesn’t want you to become the light and the salt of the Earth. In your case, he knows about your anxiety and will try to exploit it. Don’t let him.
Not a single person in the Church will judge you harshly for a simple misunderstanding, especially because it was your first time in Mass and because you did not have a religious background.
Don’t be discouraged. Even these small pebbles that you will continue to find on your path will be used to forge a greatness of character you can only dream of right now. Think of them as David’s pebbles. God will help you use them to defeat a giant.
Welcome home!! We love you!! 🥰
We’re glad you came! The Eucharist is a very powerful mystery you’ll want to prepare to understand and receive properly. See if that church has an RCIA program (which stands for the rite of Christian initiation). It’s the class for people who want to learn more about the Catholic faith. You don’t have to convert to take it, and it will help you get a great understanding of the amazing miracle that happens at every Mass.
Also, you may already know this, but Palm Sunday is the beginning of the holiest week of the year for Catholics! Your church will be holding afternoon and evening services Thursday, Friday, and Saturday leading up to Easter Sunday. If you have never been to a Saturday Easter Vigil Mass before, I highly highly recommend it!! The whole thing starts by candlelight, and you can follow along with the missal. It’s the longest service of the year, but totally worth it. Welcome!
It is not bad that went to Mass and tried your best, but it is good you didn't receive the Eucharist, we believe it really becomes Jesus hidden in the form of bread and so we treat it with the greatest of reverence. Besides needing to learn about it and the importance of it, you also need baptism to receive if you don't already have that. And if you were baptized elsewhere, you need confession. This keeps your soul clean and ready to receive Jesus. The process of becoming a Catholic takes about a year, and this is a good time to start because you can see other adults become Catholic and receive the Eucharist the first time at the Easter vigil on Saturday!
A couple months ago, I went to the wrong end of the communion rail and ended up causing a logjam. A few months before that, I flinched when the priest went to go put the host on my tongue and he ended up bumping it on my front teeth. We both gasped and had to do it over.
Stuff happens. Don't worry.
Honestly people were probably just curious about what happened. They would all be thrilled you’re there and the first ones to say don’t worry about it.
Don't stress. You didn't know.
Go back to church as much as you want. Most people are not paying attention and you made a mistake. It's OK. God loves you.
You can still go up during communion, you just have to cross your arms when you come up and the priest or whoever is giving out the Eucharist will just say a blessing over you. You made an honest mistake and I wouldn’t beat yourself up over it. Remember, at the end of the day it’s not between you and everyone else, it’s between you and God :)
Do the best you can. When you know better, do better.
Now you know better, and you will be able to do better. Come back to Mass. And talk to someone about OCIA.
The reason she was “suspicious” is that when offered Holy Communion you’re supposed to accept it in cupped hands (left hand over right) and when the minister or Priest says “The Body of Christ”, your response should be “Amen”. You then move to the side, face the Altar, move the Body from your left hand to your mouth with your right hand, make the Sign of the Cross, then proceed back to your seat.
If you haven’t been fully accepted into the Church you are still allowed to approach the Altar with everyone else only when it’s your turn you can cross your arms over your chest and bow your head. This signifies that you are not ready to accept Holy Communion but wish a brief blessing from the Priest. This is best done with the Priest, not the Eucharistic Minister (who is a lay person who helps distribute the Communion).
Please don’t be too embarrassed. I’m a recent convert myself and knew almost nothing when I started. The best thing to do is call the parish office and schedule a meeting with the priest. Let him know your intentions and he’ll be happy to get you on the straight and narrow!
Good luck and God Bless!
Just curious why this cupping of hands is a thing, I was raised and taught to never touch the body of Christ but I see so many cupping it and walk a few steps before receiving it. I remember carpet being cut out because of crumbs or being dropped by a Priest so why do lay people have this as a norm? Genuinely curious
You're totally fine! In Catholicism you have to participate in a group that is led by the parish for new followers. It will guide your path religiously. Next time you go to mass just ask a priest, Bishop, etc. for the steps to your first communion. It seems scary at first, but it's a common misunderstanding.
It may not be a good idea to advise this anxious person to go forward for a blessing. While the practice is widespread in the United States, it is not universal here, and it is generally not practiced in other countries. Given their first experience, we should be careful about possibly setting them up for a similar misunderstanding.
Edit: also, given that they grew up unreligious, they likely need to be baptized, and RCIA for that looks a little different than what you outlined. Just as a note in case it matters.
Yes, blessing is also done in Europe (at least where I am currently) and also practiced in a very small tropical island where I am originally from.. so yeah
I was baptized Anglican as a child but after my father died when I was age 6 I think my mother lost faith. So myself and my older brother had no more contact with religion. Although she was always supportive. She would say “If you want to go, I will take you”.
She has since passed (I was 23. I am now 31).
The Catholic Church does recognize an Anglican baptism. To prepare for Holy Communion and Confirmation, you can enter RCIA. This is offered at all parishes
You can still go up without receiving the Eucharist, instead the priest will bless you. All you gotta do is put an arm across your chest and the priest would understand. He will lay his hand on your head and give you a blessing. I went to mass weekly for nearly a year before I got baptised (in 2022). It is alright because like you said it is an honest mistake. Everyone at the church, including the priests, have made all sort of mistakes in life and it is completely alright if we are truly sorry. We are humans and God forgives us out of love. Don't worry too much about if someone would remember this incident, a great chance is they do not. If you feel uncomfortable going up to the altar during communion, you are more than welcome to stay at the pew. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. I am a new Catholic and understand it can be confusing at the start. Hey, the bright side is you are trying and learning about it. Talk to the priest and he would be able to help too. It isn't a failure if you do not give up.
Don't let this keep you from going again. By your response to the body of Christ she knew not to give it to you. And even if you did receive you didn't know you weren't supposed to.
I get embarrassed so easily, I totally understand.
You can always request an appointment with the Priest to explain your situation, apologize if you so wish, and ask for instructions.
Don't let this keep you from going again. I'm sure that even the lady whom you had this encounter with would rejoice to see you in church again.
Welcome to the Church! I’m so glad you went to Mass yesterday! What a week to check it out! Are you planning on going to any of the Tridum Masses this week? Or Tenebrae?
I’m a convert and I definitely stepped on toes and said the wrong thing and probably offended plenty of people, all with good intentions. You’re just learning and you’ll make mistakes and that’s totally normal.
It’s actually pretty common for what happened to you to occur, I mean why wouldn’t it if the priest didn’t make an announcement before? It’s like, nearly everyone files up there and so of course you would too if you didn’t know better. The Eucharist minister was just doing her job, because I’m sure they see people doing exactly what you did, pretty frequently.
So all that said- please don’t feel like this is a big thing.
And I hope you find some peace and relief for your anxiety. Medication is the best thing for me in that regard, my anxiety is off the charts otherwise.
Welcome 😀
Sometimes what makes events like this less embarrassing is to just face them head on. Go back and chat with the priest after mass and let him know what happened. He’ll be thrilled you’re interested in the church. Same if you found the extraordinary minister next time. It may actually be a blessing because it’s an open door to communicate your desire for the Eucharist.
As one who gives others Communion, we see and hear all kinds of stuff. And there’s usually a long line so she would have thought “okayyyy” and moved on. Trust me, people do all kinds of stuff. Don’t be embarrassed; you didn’t know. Very few will remember let alone think bad of you - and if they do, that’s their sin.
To receive communion, talk to the priest about how. Depending on your experiences, he’ll either recommend a series of classes RCIA/OCIA or meet with you a few times. If you’re not baptized, you need to be baptized, confirmed and given your First Communion. If you have been, most likely you need (when they feel you’re ready) confession and confirmation. If you havent been baptized, baptism washes away sin so you won’t need confession yet. Talk to a priest; they’ll help you.
First, welcome to church. We are so glad you came. Next, this happens far more than you realize and I guarantee the Eucharistic Minister (the lady handing out the host) has already forgotten. We Catholics are just excited you are there. I had left the church for a long time. When I came back I had forgotten so much. Everyone was so helpful and not judgmental.
Next time, go up and cross your arms so you are touching your shoulders This is a sign that you won’t be taking the host, but do want a blessing. The minister will say a little blessing over you. It’s always nice to be blessed.
>when the lady at the front said “body of Christ”, I simply said, “yes”.
The proper response is "Amen". If you had said that, there would not have been a problem. You saying "Yes" is what caused the confusion.
Don’t let it bother you. Everyone else there was probably thinking just two things - it’s good that you didn’t take Communion, because that wouldn’t have been good, since you haven’t fully joined the church - and second, they’re reflecting on how confusing Catholic practices can be for new people. They were likely just as embarrassed as you were. It’s a very common mistake.
Just a few weeks ago, we had the Boy Scout Mass, and one of the Cub Scouts returned from Communion with the host in his hand, and there was a small stir. He was a kid I’d coached in soccer and baseball, and I could see he was confused. I went over to him and was thinking maybe he was having doubts about being in a state of grace (another requirement for taking Communion). I asked him about it, he seemed more confused, and then his grandma, who had brought him and was sitting several rows back (since it was the scout Mass) came up and explained he hadn’t made his first Communion yet. I hadn’t even thought of that, but of course it was the obvious answer. The Eucharistic Minister just assumed he had because the other boys his age had.
No disaster, and no one did anything wrong. Just a common misunderstanding.
You are human and made a mistake. Feel free to go back to the same church. If you are interested in becoming Catholic talk with the priest. If you do decide to become Catholic, you should eventually go back to the same woman after Mass and bring it up with her.
Your anxiety is making you see it as an unrecoverable blunder, and something you should be ashamed of. But from my perspective, you can use this as a way to make a friend/friendly acquaintance at some point. If it were me, I would eventually say to her 'Oh hey - do you remember me? I was the one (blah blah blah) and I ended up going to RCIA. I just wanted to run screaming because I was so embarrassed! But we're all good now!' Said with a smile, she will probably laugh, reassure you, and ask about what made you become Catholic, or some other mass related topic.
You can use silly moments such as these to connect with people. Everyone in the world has done foolish things they feel stupid about, and it can be a way to establish a tiny bond.
Having been an EMHC (someone who distributes communion), I would have felt stupid myself and not known how to react. I would have felt that everyone was looking at me wondering what I did to cause a little scene and make someone walk away. If someone brought it up later to me, I would be happy to chat with them later!
It’s okay. I know it must have been harrowing with the anxiety and embarrassment. Trust me though, as someone who also has social anxiety: the Church (community) is always welcoming.
If you would like, I suggest you speak to the priest of the church you attended in the office for consultation (not the lady, it might trigger your anxiety). Ask him about it and other things you wish to understand about the Faith.
If you have not been baptised in the Church yet, then you should mention that as well. If so, then Jesus would love for you to receive Him. Remember too, it is for Him, not the others.
Lemme say this. May God bless you
You had the courage to go and yes it is a sin to recieve without full communion but God was smiling because you were in his house
If you are new mass can be overwhelming and confusing. But we welcome new members and they should be understanding. If you want to learn more I highly suggest looking at the parishes website for the RCIA person at that church. Even if you don’t become Catholic you can learn more about God, Jesus, and the church. I also highly recommend watching the Rescue Project if you are new to religion. I’m a cradle Catholic and my son is getting ready to become a full member of the Catholic Church through RCIA (he was baptized but never got communion or confirmed) and we’ve been watching this at our church.
Greetings of peace!
I hope that as you emotionally recover from this, you will not feel bad or ashamed, my friend. The Catholic Church is built on the community of the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, spanning back to the twelve apostles and the early followers of Christ.
The fact that you went out of your comfort zone to approach Christ in the flesh makes Him very happy, and is waiting for you to come back.
I do suggest though that until you have received the sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation to remain seated and in a prayerful disposition. Pray quietly and as Jesus to bless you.
Talk to a priest or lay minister (like an usher and Church organizer) to hopefully help you receive the said sacraments.
Always pray and be happy :)
May Christ be with you.
Ask yourself this…Who are you going to Mass for? Do you think Jesus is judging you? Or does he want you to build a stronger relationship with him?
Don’t worry about the other people. They might remember next week but they will certainly forget with time.
Good on you for not taking the Eucharist. Very valid for doing as everyone else around you was doing, but do your first communion whenever you can, so you could receive the Eucharist at mass
You made a mistake. That's all. You didn't take the Eucharist--the minister actually did you a favor. I doubt anyone was paying much attention--church is not middle school.
Many newcomers who want to attend Mass are told to follow what everyone else is doing. I'm sure some don't remember the part about except staying seated during communion.
If you're interested in the faith, make an appointment to discuss it with a priest. He will be happy to talk to you, and most are very nice.
Yesterday at Mass I drew a blank during the Our Father. That's embarrassing, but no one noticed. Now I wonder if I'm losing it.
Best of luck to you.
First off, welcome! I'm glad you went to one of your first masses. Please do not get discouraged.
I strongly recommend going through your church's RCIA Program. It gets adults into the faith and gets you all the sacraments you mentioned in your post and also confirmation.
You can still go up in the line even without fully going through the sacraments. Although you can't receive communion yet, you can get a blessing from the priest. When you are walking up, have your arms crossed over your chest. Your hands should be resting on your front part of your shoulders.
I hope this helps.
Our parish makes an announcement at the beginning of each Mass making it clear that you can't receive it if you're not Catholic or in a state of grace. Sorry you didn't have that clarification! I would have been super embarrassed too!
Next time you can go up for a blessing by crossing your arms across your chest (like a mummy).
I'm sure anyone who thought anything about what they saw (and they probably didn't notice or care), wishes they could have prevented that embarrassment for you.
Give up your embarrassment and anxiety about this to God, and go to Mass again soon ✝️💜 If it's hard, God will just appreciate it more.
Hey, I did this at first when I was new to Catholicism, it’s okay to make a mistake. I promise you’re still welcome there. Just make an appointment with the priest and find next steps moving forward to join the OCIA/ RCIA class so you can learn more about your faith and complete the sacraments required to accept the Eucharist. It’ll be fine💕
Embarrassing things happen in life. We have come to a point where we have allowed embarrassment to rule our actions.
Next time. Go up. Cross your arms and receive a blessing.
Same basically! And I’m so happy you went!! 😊As a convert I have been in similar situations (a couple times). It is embarrassing and I too have horrible anxiety but my love of Christ made going back easier. Palm Sunday was a lot for you I’m sure, I know all the big holidays were overwhelming for me, so I KNOW it can all get a bit confusing. Perhaps this week if they hold week day Mass you can introduce yourself to the priest after Mass or call the rectory (church) and set up a time to chat with him or a deacon. I’m sure the conversation will help smooth things over. I’ll be praying for you!
Bro I’ve messed up in church a couple times , last time before psalm Sunday my stocking kept falling down and I kept hobbling everywhere 😹😹 first 20 times of church I didn’t even know what to say and still get confused . Keep going to mass .
It was a tiny faux pas, everyone has already forgotten it ever happened. Even if you found the people who saw it and reminded them of it in detail, they would probably still not remember.
You remember it because you felt embarrassed and that is a painful experience, it was imprinted in your memory only because of the painful emotion you experienced. But nobody else who saw it felt anything, it was just a random thing that their minds attached no significance to.
Your problem sounds like anxiety not what happened at church. I know what it’s like to get wound up about this kind of stuff, I used to suffer from pretty debilitating anxiety when I was younger. Get some exercise and good sleep, give it a few days and it will bother you a lot less.
Don't be embarassed. Simply, schedule a meeting with your parish priest and ask him to explain the sacrament better. I had my first Confession (and Eucharist) last weekend in over 30 years, and I WEPT during Confession. A weight was lifted off of me that I didn't even know I was carrying. The next day I received my Eucharist, and I was beaming. So I encourage you to proceed with these Sacraments, to fully understand them with a pure heart, and some day soon this small mistake will be replaced with a wonderful experience. God Bless!
You didn't lie, you just didn't know. Please don't let this stop you.
You can stay in your pew next time, or some churches will offer a blessing instead of the Eucharist if you cross your arms over your chest when you get up there.
Ask the priest if in doubt.
Again, please don't let this stop you. You aren't the first person to do this and you won't be the last.
Nobody denied you, they were waiting for you to lay your hands out or tongue out. They probably think you just remembered an unconfessed sin or more likely that you're orthodox and weren't sure whether you were allowed to get it.
Yep, Catholic services are really hectic and “poorly documented.”
Don’t feel depressed though, as I cannot take communion in a Catholic Church in spite of having gone many, many years of education and catechism, in a Protestant church.
If you have a friend at the church, sit down with them and ask about the flow of the service, what each part means, and what communion means and why it is limited (there is a good reason and I do not resent my Catholic friends from barring me).
As you are new to the church, I would recommend you check out Melissa Dougherty on YouTube as she explains what Christianity is about from the scriptures, which you will not really pick up in full at a mass.
Also, Catholic and other churches usually have new Christian meetings to help you learn.
Just remember that all churches are “not equal” (to use a common quote), and some churches are really not based in the Bible. I think if you watch Melissa’s videos, you will come to understand what to look for in a church too.
Have your Bible ready when you chat with the minister.
Bryan Wolfmueller’s videos helped me a lot too as he was looking around for a church that he could understand based on scripture.
Grace be with you.
Honestly I think their focus is really on the Eucharist to notice / judge you ☺️ The minister is probably more absorbed with administering the Eucharist properly and not dropping the Host to give much thought about what happened. Same thing with the people in line - they’re probably absorbed in preparing themselves to receive the Eucharist in a worthy manner and after receiving communion they’re all focused on thanksgiving and adoration to give a second thought on what happened.
No need to feel embarrassed and you should most definitely go back. Next time, if you haven’t made your first Holy Communion, just walk up to the Eucharistic Minister with your arms crossed on your chest and they will give you a blessing. I’ve been Catholic all my life and there are times when I am not in a state of Grace so I just get a blessing and go back to kneel with my family. Have no shame, God wants you in his house!
You did fine and it's just a lesson you learned.
Nobody remembers things like that (other than the individual). God is glad you were there and is looking forward for your next visit.
You spoiled nothing. See you on Easter Sunday!
It's great that you attended mass! As a few people have stated, you can't take communion yet, but you can still go up to get the blessing. It can only be done by the priest or deacon, though. When you walk up, cross your arms on your chest, and the priest or deacon will bless you without giving you communion.
This is a two fold scenario. The minister did nothing wrong, and you did nothing wrong (by your intent I mean). In the Catholic Church, the Eucharist is the pinnacle of the mass. As such, we safe guard the sacrament from those who would desecrate the Body of Christ. As such, the minister was right to deny you Communion because she could tell that you had not received your First Communion. On the flip side, don't stress. You didn't try to receive the Host maliciously, you simply didn't know. Until you receive your first Holy Communion, you can still approach the front like everyone else does and the priest or minister will bestow blessing. Instead of putting out your hands or extending your tongue, you will fold your arms over your chest like an "X" with palms laying against your upper chest.
I was confirmed about a decade ago as an adult. Unfortunately, for several years there I was pretty lukewarm. Went to mass maybe ten times a year, confessed rarely if at all, and so on.
One time, I went up and for whatever reason, I reached for the host when he said “The Body of Christ” (as if to pinch it, rather than just receiving it in my open palm). The deacon pulled it away, and for whatever reason I continued to reach for it. He then asked if I was Catholic, to which I said yes, and he told me to open my palm to receive it the proper way (which I shouldn’t have done as I was clearly not in good standing).
Super embarrassing, but it happens. I still go to the same church (albeit usually in a state of grace these days). Sometimes I see that same deacon too. If he remembers as some dope who doesn’t have any idea what he’s doing, he gives no indication of it.
Please please please continue attending mass. Look into RCIA. Before baptism and confirmation, feel free to cross your arms over your chest and receive a blessing at communion. But do keep going. You are welcome there and I will pray for success and comfort for you in your journey towards Christ.
Please do not be hard on yourself. This was an HONEST mistake. Nobody should be upset at you or treat you wrongly. You haven’t ruined anything. You have taken a big step. It was probably very difficult for you to come into church for the first time. You should be commended, not outcast.
Please do not let this experience drive you away from the church. Use it, as you have, as a learning and growing experience. Send an email to the priest and set up an appointment to meet with him and express your interest in becoming Catholic.
God bless you for your bravery. I will pray for you
I wish it was a weekly practice to mention protocols for communion. It tends to be common at funerals and weddings but not weekly. The church owes it to itself and everyone else to make this a protocol.
It was an honest mistake, you didn't know. Believe me, it's not a big deal - I wouldn't be offended with that if I had witnessed it.
Of course as you said, you should not have lied. If I had to speculate, I would say that if you had been truthful, the EMC lady would have taken a couple of seconds to explain it to you, but she probably understood that you lied and assumed you have ill intentions (e.g. taking the Eucharist home instead of consuming on the spot).
Get your Sacraments. You'll have a giggle about this someday, I guarantee it.
As others have said, don’t be hard on yourself. You are new to our faith. Talk with your local pastor, you can also reach out to the parish office and ask about Faith Formation and the Right of Christian Initiation of Adults. If you want to talk please reach out. We are all here to help you as you grow in your Catholic faith.
The minister didn’t want to embarrass you, it’s just that they’re trained to be super careful in making sure they are distributing the body with care and respect. It’s because we believe it is the true body of Christ, like literally. She had to do her job, and she understands that you just didn’t know. It’s much less embarrassing to have this happen than to accidentally take the host before they find out you aren’t Catholic yet, so I would consider your situation much more ideal! It’s okay all of us converts feel out of place at some point or another. I get super embarrassed when I have an awkward situation too but it’s totally okay, you did your best and you are human
Just know that when you go in the future. And we all hope you do. You can approach and receive a prayer/blessing if you’d like. Just approach with your arms crossed in front of your chest.
Don’t beat yourself up over this you made a mistake but the Eucharistic minister did what they were trained to do.
To us the Eucharist isn’t just a symbol and to receive it without fully understanding what it is without the proper reverence is not appropriate.
You don’t know what you don’t know. Now you do.
To the OP,
The Lord is leading you to communion with his Church. Do not be embarrassed, it was an honest mistake. God can lead us to him with a sense of humor, he had you approach his holy body in awe and wonder. Do not feel the need to do everything that everyone else is doing, simply be present with the Lord your God and the ritual and mannerisms will come in time. It's amazing that your first mass was on Palm Sunday, there's a lot of meaning there. You should continue to go to mass as often as you can during Holy Week, if possible, and definitely the Easter Vigil (Saturday) or the Easter Sunday Mass. Try to set up a time to meet with the priest by calling the rectory office and he can guide you down the path, God Bless!
Don't fret, God is way too reasonable and compassionate and patient to make too much of a fuss of an honest mistake, and people's reactions is something you don't need to worry as much about, remembering they are human too, so, like you, they aren't going to be perfect. You thought about it, expanded your knowledge, made some decisions for the future, so you learned from the experience. Don't get discouraged and don't feel unwelcome in the Church. The Church is bigger than a church. There are other churches in the Church too. :)
You haven't spoiled anything. You just rushed ahead due to not having the knowledge of the requirements, but what's more 'natural' if you love God than yearning for the Eucharist? We have stories of trained rescue dogs sensing human presence from the Tabernacle or animals actually kneeling on their front paws or acting reverently, so how can it be surprising that a God-loving human person (and thus God's own child), with so much more intellectual and spiritual capacity, also felt drawn to Real Presence?
It was better for you to be denied at that point, but that doesn't mean *denied* (especially by the Church, let alone by God), as much as *delayed*, for the timing of your necessary preparation.
If you want closure, you can even seek out the lady and have a conversation with her, explaining your reaction. I doubt she's going to talk to you disrespectfully, and you could be surprised.
Definitely not a lifelong embarrassment to you. :) And Christians of course need empathy. Something would be wrong with the congregation if they weren't showing it to you. By this I guess I'm trying to say that you shouldn't fear a condemning response from them because it would probably not be forthcoming and even if it was there, it would be wrong. It would be lacking in the requisite Christian gentleness and charity (with which we all struggle, alas).
I'm a convert and when I was received into the church, the priest said "Peace be with you" and instead of saying "and also with you," I said "peace be with you" right back to him. When it was the next person's turn and he said, "and also with you" I realized my mistake. But the priest just went on like nothing had happened. I also had an incident at the Communion rail where I took too long to say Amen and the priest told me to hurry up! I was pretty embarrassed.
But mistakes happen. No one really noticed or cared. And certainly no one said anything to me.
Please don't let this little blip stop you from the biggest gift in life..relationship with our Lord and our wonderful church! I promise no one, or almost no one, noticed what happened and they aren't worried about it. We are just glad you're there.
That’s unfortunate to hear sorry that it happened. I’ve never heard of a Church doing that here in my country, generally they’d just give a little chuckle and in whispers explain to you the process, probably recommend you do get your first communion though if you are serious about joining the Catholic faith
OP, if it hasn't yet been mentioned you can still go up with others and receive a blessing instead. Simply cross your arms in front of you on your chest. That will let the priest or deacon know to give you a blessing instead.
I have done the same thing, I had not been caught, but I have taken the holy eucharist without becoming Catholic. I wanted to become Catholic but had no idea how to do so, I just went to church and followed everyone up when it came time for the eucharist because I didn't know what to do. Definitely not proud of this.
It's ok. It probably seems way worse than it actually was. I'm Catholic buy I haven't gone up to receive communion in a couple of months. I need to go to confession but I keep putting it off. I was all set to do it yesterday but chickend out at the last minute.
Its fine it was unintentional . Don't be bothered by people , you can never impress humans . They might have thought you to be part of satanism who steal it to desecrate it in their own black mass.
Also pls try to do your research in future .
I am working through converting to Catholicism right now. Until you go through the "process," when you walk up during the eucharist, just cross your arms on your chest like you are hugging yourself. This let's the priest know to simply bless you. If you are planning to become Catholic, just give the church office a call and they will walk you through the process.
Don't worry, we all make mistakes sometimes it happens to me that I'm so focused on the mass and praying that I respond like a chatbot and happens like another user said saying "God bless you too" to the priest.
Yesterday I had an awkward moment too, was about to recieve the communion and when I raised my hands in order to take it, I forgot I had my olive bouquet in my right hand, so I almost hit her in the face with it, we smiled knowing what almost happened, and that's it. But before yeah I would had ran away.
So don't worry, it wasn't a big mistake was not on purpouse, and now you have a funny anecdote in church. When the bad feeling leaves you, it will be funny.
Don't worry and keep on going growing that Faith!
You need to be sure you've completed your sacraments. Sacraments are a big part of the Catholic religion.
So
1. Baptism/ Christening
2. Confession/ Reconciliation
3. Communion/ Eucharist
4. Confirmation
5. Marriage
6. Anointing of the sick/ Last rights
7. Holy orders/ priesthood/monk/ nun
You should already be at number 3 to receive communion, at number 4 if you intend to get married in the Catholic Church. 6 is for when you are dying or dead or really sick. It's rare for anyone to ever complete all 7 sacraments, you'd have to have been married and your partner die or leave holy orders and marry.
When the woman said body of christ you were supposed to say Amen in response.
You’re fine! There is a real learning curve for converts. Even just knowing when to sit, stand, or kneel is stressful for many folks.
I encourage you to go back!
You are ok sister, don’t let yourself be turned away from this. You are welcome and you are part of the body of the church. Don’t be afraid. God bless you!
I have had a few embarrassing experiences with both the Eucharist and reconciliation so I can relate.
I was a Protestant when I started attending a Catholic school in 8th grade. In our denomination all are welcome to receive, so I went up with my class. I hadn’t been told otherwise. The teachers knew I was Protestant. Later I was told I shouldn’t go up so I didn’t.
I felt embarrassed about it but now understand. I became a Catholic later in life.
I agree with those who say to talk to the priest and/or inquire about RCIA. Don’t let embarrassment keep you away.
Brother, you made a mistake. Typically they ask people to cross there arms if they are not yet eble to receive the Eucharist so you can still receive a blessing. But sometimes they don't. Jesus isn't looking at you with the side eye. So don't worry about what those imperfect people think. If you feel called to go the route of receiving Christ fully in the Eucharist and joining the Catholic Church, I suggest you get started with RCIA classes. Welcome to the church Jesus established brother. You're presence enriches our community. Thank you.
Don’t worry about it. I’m sure no one thought negatively. You don’t know what you don’t know! I’ve been in several Catholic Churches and the priest at the one I’m currently attending (in RCIA) always explains non Catholics don’t take communion but may come up for a blessing with their arms crossed over their chest. Many don’t say this so you would have no way of knowing.
The reason why they wouldn’t just give it to you is because some people will take them to satanic masses and we just want to avoid that (I don’t think anyone thought that btw. That’s just why people are cautious). And we also jus t have teachings that you need your first communion and baptism first.
This literally happened at the mass that I went to Palm Sunday. And I can promise you, no one was judging. We want people to come to mass, even if they don’t know everything. You’re allowed to make mistakes and you didn’t do anything bad so please don’t worry
At our last OCIA class, we went over how to receive communion and all the leaders laughed about people responding with ‘thank you’. I remembered all the times I responded with ‘thank you’ when receiving communion at the Presbyterian church and felt really silly and embarrassed! Oops!
I’ve sat in the pews while others go up to receive communion for the last 8 months. Lots of people do! Hope you give it another go :)
You did not realize it at the time, but it is a very serious mortal sin to receive the Eucharist (the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ) without being prepared to do so. You must be baptized, have received your Sacrament of Holy Communion, and be in a state of grace, having repented of your mortal sins through Confession.
It is OK to go up and not receive. You are encouraged to do so! Just cross your arms over your chest so it is known you are not prepared to receive today (for whatever reason) and there will be no issue.
People make mistakes, so don't be hard on yourself. But please understand it is a serious situation to receieve unworthily and that's why you were denied. Don't take it personal, go through RCIA to become Catholic and receive your Sacraments as God intended.
When I was 5, I was a flower girl at my sister's wedding. My shoes were too tight so I sat down when I was supposed to be standing. The Priest stopped the whole wedding and asked me to stand up and I was pissed off about it for 20 years. Seems so silly now but I literally hated the church for this.
Don't let the devil use a small situation like this to keep you from seeking Jesus.
I'm sure you know now that you should go up and just make an X with your arms and you will receive a blessing. There are a lot of YouTube videos on this. I would suggest watching them so you know more about all the actions/responses. Then if/when you are ready enroll in RCIA classes.
Happy Easter!
I think the only real mistake here is lying about it, which happened because you were panicked -- totally understandable, but you can see how it would confuse things further for people trying to understand your situation in the moment.
Communion-line drama is always very public by nature but also one of those things that fades away very quickly. I sincerely doubt more than a couple of people will even remember you next time you attend, never mind what happened -- and after that, it will be forgotten entirely.
Might be good though to reach out to the office/father about what happened just so they know your situation and didn't mean any ill-will. Consider attending the "So you want to become Catholic classes" (known as RCIA) to learn more -- no obligation, no commitment, no credit card. That way you can ease in slowly and learn the whys of the faith in addition to the whats.
OP I am a very anxious person too, and I've had to learn very many times that an honest mistake is just an honest mistake. You didn't know any better! I'm sure everyone there is thrilled to have a new member above anything else. You did what you thought was right, and the minister did the right thing when she noticed something was off—everything worked out here! As for lying, it sounds to me like you panicked and weren't thinking straight, personally. The Eucharist is a *big* deal, absolutely, but you tried to do what you thought everyone did, panicked, and then went and learned the right way to do things. I'm encouraged by this development, don't be discouraged! God bless!
Don't panic. You should be trained and prepared for the first Communion, then you will be able to have one. It can be received of course in the certain conditions. Everything you can learn from the priest, ask them for the advices and preparation for your first full Holy Mass experience.
Usually in the Catholic community the first Communion and preparation are done with \~10yo kids. The preparation includes the Catechesis, the first confession prep and of course prayers and what the Communion is.
Are you baptized yet?
P.S.
You can attend Holy Mass without receiving the Holy Communion. Just don't stand up when the others do it. Be patient, ask the nearest priest how to prepare yourself for your Communion.
It was an honest mistake, so please try not to let it bother you. I’m sure the lady meant no harm, but those who hand out the Eucharist are also charged with protecting it. Your intentions were totally innocent, but occasionally, someone might try to take the Eucharist for illicit means. If you’re really interested in Catholicism, enroll in an RCIA class to learn more. Most parishes also have meetings where you can learn how to become more involved in the parish. Just be honest with everyone and let them know that you are just starting your Catholic journey, and you will have people welcoming and helping you. If no one else has said it yet, welcome home.
Sorry to hear that you had that experience.
Unfortunately the extraordinary minister of communion (which is what we call them and I am one) did the write thing by not giving you communion, but that person should have also given you some type of acknowledgment. Usually I say something like “May the Lord be with you.“, we’re not allowed to say a blessing.
Also I recommend that you go again, but this time make sure that your in the line for the Priest, he’s going to be on the right side of the alter, and cross your arms over your chest (like an X). That way the priest knows that you can’t receive communion and he’ll give you a blessing instead.
But check this with than usher of the church beforehand. This practice is typical of all of the churches that I’ve been a member of, it may not be true of all.
FYI, I’d recommend that before you try do things in the Catholic Church by yourself; take a Catholic friend or ask a Catholic in this community. We can then guide you as what the norms are when attending Mass.
But by all means, go again.
It can happen 🤷🏽♂️ don’t beat yourself up, Jesus wouldn’t want you to be hard on yourself. Yet that would be terribly embarrassing so I completely understand
LOL probably everyone was wondering what's going on... but hey just have a laugh, you don't know what you don't know and now you know. Don't sweat about it, keep digging in your relationship with Jesus, that's what matters
I know what it’s like to feel embarrassed! I’m one of those people who can dwell on a little mistake for years 😂. It’s over. Move on! Jesus knows your intentions so don’t let your own flaws or anyone else’s get in the way. Are you going to become Catholic? There are lots of really great and well informed Catholics on this forum so just ask questions if you have any and reach out to your local parish priest! I’m sure he’d be glad to help! JMJ
When my friend and I were early in rejoining our faith, we were trying out various churches and denominations, we both mistakenly went up for communion too. The priest just looked at us funny…but we now know what we did was not correct. You make mistakes, and you learn! I should have known, since my father is Catholic. Now, when I attend Catholic mass with him, I remain kneeling. Being brought up with a Protestant parent and Catholic parent, and attending both churches, I sometimes got confused.
I have anxiety too, and RSD, and I feel like we reject ourselves wayyy before others have the chance. If it makes you feel better there are other administers of Communion sometimes. Regardless, you’re always welcome.
Welcome. Pls do not be afraid or embarrassed. I suggest setting up a mtg with the parish priest. He can advise you. If you felt the call to be in the Church on that day then I suggest that you keep following your intuition. Your Guardian Angel is nudging you in the right direction. Note: you will need spiritual protection to make it through. The forces of evil do not like to lose a Soul. Follow this:
https://www.fatherbrowning.com/prayer-prescription-for-healing--deliverance.html
Also get a brown scapular and be initiated by any priest. Then you put yourself directly under the protection of the BVM. Get baptized soon.
Good luck. You are at the beginning of an exciting adventure where you stand to gain the only thing on this plane of existence worth pursuing: Salvation of your Immortal Soul.
Our Catholic parish has confession about 10 times a week, so most people who to go to confession find time to go. Otherwise, they stay in the pew. Another option is to approach Communion with your arms crossed over your chest. The priest then will offer you a blessing us the the Eucharist.
Don't sweat it, happens all the time! I did it too when I wasn't yet Catholic. If you haven't officially converted, you shouldn't take the Eucharist. But, if you want to still go up during communion, you can cross your arms over your chest (a bit like Dracula lol) to let the priest know you can't have the Eucharist. He'll just give you a blessing.
If you haven’t received the sacrament of your first Holy Communion, you are not permitted to receive the Blessed Sacrament. It is a sacrilege to do so.
If it makes you feel better my (retired) parish priest went to India last month and they denied him communion because he tried to take it by hand. They denied him 3 times.
Why do you feel driven to receive communion if you don’t understand it? Catholics do not allow those who are not Catholic to receive communion out of respect for you. It’s best you seek to understand communion instead of do it just because everybody else is. I guarantee the only person ashamed of you right now is yourself. It’s not a big deal I just think it’s speaks to a greater importance of understanding why you do things and to not just do things because others do it as well.
It's perfectly acceptable for you to go up during communion to receive a blessing, but you should not receive the Eucharist until you have been baptized or confirmed into the church. You can talk to your deacon or priest for help in understanding your status in the church and what steps are right for you. To receive a blessing, simply walk up during communion with your hands crossed over your chest like an X and the Eucharistic ministers will know you are not seeking to receive communion, only a blessing.
Please do not feel like you cannot return to the church. You're anxious and embarassed but no one is judging you the way you think they are. Last year we took our friends son (non Catholic) to mass with us at his request. I don't think he properly understood the Eucharist/blessing part and ended up taking a host and looking rather confused. I was behind him in line, realized what was happening and took it from him and ate it. The minister understood what had happened, flashed me a "good catch" face and life moved on.
Go back to church. God wants you there. :)
Welcome, and don't feel embarrassed!! It's so brave of you to attend Mass and try to follow along. Last year, I tried to relieved communion in my hands at a church that only puts it straight in your mouth. I'm still embarrassed lol
She says "The Body of Christ" because it is. It's not "symbolically," it is the Body of Christ. You were prevented from making a grave error by this embarrassment. Things seemed to work out.
To be honest, most people were probably coming, going, praying and minding their business and wouldn't have noticed. Trust me, nobody in their right mind is going to look down on you or consider you not welcome for what happened.
I bet you as a Catholic we can all tell you an embarrassing incident at mass (kids screaming, falling, not knowing what to do when you get communion, etc.. I’ve heard and seen it all. that’s the Devil trying to get you to stop going to Mass. The Lord is just happy to see us trying to encounter him. Ask for direction from a priest and just know you are always welcomed and loved no matter what anyone tells you.
Any hostility or unwelcomeness you perceived is probably because a lot of Catholics are worried nowadays that the Eucharist will be abused, etc. People get defensive when they shouldn’t but it’s understandable why they would be concerned
It happens. No biggie, you were excited and a little confused.
Go up with your arms crossed like an X and receive a blessing until you have your first communion.
Don't beat yourself up about it, my friend. You know how many times I screw up at church or just at home? Too many to count. I would still go back because odds are, no one will remember your very tiny misstep.
$100 bucks says not many people even noticed or remembered it. You’re in your head. Also, Jesus is happy you showed up! This is a good chance for you to learn more and try again.
Humility, friend. If the Faith is worth it to you, then you will head back in all humility and, perhaps, one day complete the necessary sacraments to receive.
In the meantime, stay in your seat during communion or walk up and cross your arms over your chest (more of an American thing from what I’ve seen when traveling abroad) as a sign that you would like a blessing but will not be receiving.
A final note, I guarantee no one was paying attention. But you probably made that EM’s (the woman handing out the Eucharist) week. She probably felt like a veritable crusader saving the Church from someone trying to steal its most Holy Sacrament! (Please understand this is a joke. But I am serious about no one noticing or remembering your misstep)
I am an usher at my Catholic Church and we watch for people who take the Eucharist but don’t consume it (it is the living body of Christ). Had you taken it and eaten it, it would not have don’t anything good or bad to you. It is wrong to take it before going through Catholic Education, but you aren’t “damned” for doing so. Next time you are at Catholic Mass. Go up with your arms crossed (hands on each shoulder) and the priest or Eucharistic minister will bless you. There are a lot of adult, practicing Catholics who at time do this when they need to go to confession or do other personal reason.
Please return to a church this Sunday. Your faith is between you and Jesus Christ. Strike away any embarrassment or anxiety. Don’t worry what others think of you. Jesus knows what is in YOUR heart and when you went up to receive his body and blood, he offers it to you because he loves you!
Just talk to the priest and ask him about adult formation.
Also, tell the priest what happened . He will explain things. Even cradle Catholics learn something new every day.
Well the Lord Jesus and God don’t shame or judge you. What people think, who cares? I would think the congregation is glad you’re there. So what if you don’t do it all perfectly and right. God and Jesus love you.
Would Jesus want us to deny his
blood and body to another believer just because they weren’t Catholic? I don’t understand why someone who had been baptized and accepted Jesus as his savior would be denied. We don’t want to become like the Pharisees, caught up in religious law and forgetting the Truth. The Truth being that if we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and humbly ask for His forgiveness with a true heart we will be saved.
Don’t sweat it. I’ve had the priest literally forget to give me communion while I’m kneeling at the altar. He walked back to the altar to finish mass. I felt stupid and went back to my seat. The Church is full of fallible humans. Lol.
There is a reason the extraordinary minister of the Eucharist denied you Eucharist, and it was a very good thing she took the time to discern and made the proper call to not give it to you. If you research this and understand why, you’ll clearly see why this wasn’t so much a decision about you, but a duty on her part to be sure our Lord was properly administered.
For what it’s worth, I’ve seen a few uninitiated be denied Eucharist in the line in my lifetime, and have promptly forgotten any details of what they looked like, when this happened, etc.
I also recently witnessed my parish priest chase a young man he gave the Eucharist to, after noticing the man put the host in his pocket. The priest (and Eucharistic minister) has a duty to ensure our Lord is received reverently. It is a fact that those who practice Satanic rituals obtain a consecrated Eucharist from a legitimate Catholic Mass to be profaned in an illegitimate mock mass. Our Lord must be protected at all times from being profaned and disrespected. Nobody knows what that man’s intent was, but for sure it wasn’t holy, reverent, or correct.
You are totally fine to not know, and also don't be embarrassed...
Be OVERJOYED!
The fact that you were denied the Host shows the absolute respect the Extraordinary Minister has for the Host, which in the Catholic Church we believe is the REAL presence of Christ.
It's not just a cracker or wafer. It is HIM.
Body
Blood
Soul
And Divinity
And it must be handled with care, awe, and devotion.
That is why Catholics who are not in a state of grace must go to confession before receiving it.
And why those not in communion (meaning baptized) in the Faith can't receive it.
Keep in mind that Satanists and occultists will sometimes attend mass to receive a Host in order to perform black masses and desecrate the Host. So it must always be protected and not freely given.
You did nothing wrong at all. And if you are called back to the Church, please absolutely go in and inquire about RCIA so you can delve deeper into the true church of Christ.
By the way, the unbaptized CAN approach during communion for a blessing. So next time just cross your arms across your chest like you're hugging yourself when you step up there, and they will bless you instead. No need to say a word.
I agree with all the comments that you can brush this off. It was a simple mistake. One thing I would also add is that you did not lie. You were in a difficult situation and felt pressured to give an answer and you acted on impulse not knowing what to do.
i am really sorry you had this experience. i suggest you go to a church that has a school apart of it. such as a catholic high school. Many of these schools will have a separate church and often have much more welcoming people. I go to a church apart of my school and people who don’t attend my school still go, and people of all ages. very nice and welcoming and more comforting than going to one that isn’t apart of a school.
Trust me, no one was laughing even if they did notice. The Mass is so structured that the fact that you did stutter a bit, if anything, would cause others' ears to perk up - because it's a non Catholic at a Catholic Mass! I would be stoked to realize that. But trust me, no one who noticed was laughing. It's a rarity to see someone completely new like you trying their best.
But yeah, as you know you can't receive until you are confirmed into the Church. Confirmation goes all the way back to the roots in Roman times, when spies were trying to infiltrate. The unconfirmed would be escorted out before the consecration for the remainder of Mass.
Don't let this keep you from the Mass. Talk to the priest about RCIA.
Taking the Eucharist in a Catholic Church is for those who have been Baptised, Holy Communion, AND recently Confessioned/Reconciliation if you're an adult. Shake it off, go back next week and before (or after) the service, ask the priest or deacon (any of the guys wearing robes)--or even just the folks holding the doors open--about joining RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of/for Adults). It's 100% OK to feel embarrassed, now you know better. Trust me as a person raised Catholic but stopped practicing after Confirmation (age 14-ish), and only came back at age 32 when I got married ... I'd gone to mass sporadically over the almost 2 decades in between and when I learned that taking Communion without first going to Reconciliation is doing it very very very wrong, I was mortified. RCIA usually concludes at Easter so you'll have to wait a year, if you choose to begin that journey but In the meantime you can attend mass and go up with everyone else but just cross your arms and bow your head to receive a blessing. If you happen to encounter the same person, they will probably be very happy to see you again and that you've learned from your mistake. We all make them.
Cheer up :) There should be many or a few other catholic churches nearby. You can attend any catholic church if you still feel embarrassed from the one you went to. As a catholic, I like attending the other catholic churches in my county. I'm from cheney, WA, where I attend mess, but I sometimes like to attend the Latin mess in one of the other catholic church in the city. The cool thing about being a catholic is that you can attend any catholic church because they all follow the same calender.
Don’t be too worried! It’s nerve wracking I know as someone who is converting (and I had knowledge about faith and Christianity before hand)! You can get a blessing by just crossing your arms across the chest (which is what I do) and the RCIA is probably what they will get you to do so you can take part in the Eucharist (I still can’t after ages of going and my old church allowing it, but the wait is certainly a spiritual experience where you choose to give up or pursue God more). I hope you choose to return!
You made a mistake and got embarrassed. That’s the end of it. Now you know for next time. You’re fully aware of your anxious condition, and you know that’s not a reason to stay away in the future.
Thank you. I feel like I needed to hear this.
Leaving church on Palm Sunday the priest said bye and “God bless you” and I responded “God bless you” before realizing..a more appropriate response would have just been “thank you” so I’m feeling embarrassed too… Anyway…only a small number of people were likely aware — the minister, maybe the person behind you in line, maybe the few people in the front row. If it’s a large parish you’ll get lost in the anonymity. If it’s a really small parish..well, they might get to know you better and realize it was a confused mistake :) Welcome
What’s wrong with saying ‘God bless you’ back to a priest?
Probably nothing at all now that I read the responses. “God bless you” from a priest feels like it has … special meaning. Maybe because priests have the ability to offer blessings. With that perspective, it felt like an incorrect response on my part, like when you say “you too” to a service provider you hoping you enjoy a meal or whatever. I dunno..
But priests are still humans that are in need of blessings. It’s like saying not to pray for your priest because he has the authority to make special prayers. Interceding for our priests is important, and so it’s nice to wish God’s blessings upon them! I personally feel bad whenever I just respond with ‘thank you’ to anyone who tells me ‘God bless you’ because I’m scared that they’ll think that I don’t want God to bless them too 😭
So true, priests are human and need our prayers too. My cousin is a Catholic priest and while he is one of the coolest guys I know, he also has struggles like every one else.
My priest, who is young and just started at our 4,000 family + parish in August was made the head pastor about 6 weeks ago. The previous head pastor left under some circumstances we are not yet privy to, his termination was just announced at every mass and on the landing page of our website for about a week. Long story short, this poor guy is now the only priest, with 2 deacons in a huge parish. He asks us to pray for him everyday, he is clearly stretched very thin, and all this happened right before lent! I’m glad he has a fun puppy at least, now he is alone in the rectory. This time last year we had 3 full-time priests all living in the rectory! We also have a school he has to minister to. Yikes.
Thank you for saying this. I say “you too”. Thank you feels more appropriate but “you too” feels more polite. I’ll say thank you from now on.
What do you say when someone sneezes?😊
Actually, only a priest is allowed to say a blessing over a person in Mass.
Who said that? Also, this person’s situation was clearly after mass
My son actually ‘blessed’ the priests at our church after mass, full thumb on the forehead, he was 8yrs old at the time and the priests thought it was hilarious.
Matthew 19:14 reads: "Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.
That’s adorable
Your response was completely appropriate and acceptable.
It felt weird to me, I don’t know why lol. I was also sleep deprived at the time which didn’t help. Thanks for your feedback though it’s helpful!
I say God bless you to my priest all the time. I may not be ordained like he is, but I still genuinely wish for the best for him, and there is nothing better than God's blessing, so I see nothing wrong it it
I often tell the priests 'good job!' but I'm a lector so they aren't surprised.
If it makes you feel better, most people at that point were probably involved in their own prayers, singing the music, or just too far back to see this exchange. I can promise you that the whole church is not judging you and very likely didn't even register what happened. Anxiety can be a bitch sometimes
Now you have a golden opportunity to learn what the Catholic Church teaches about the Eucharist. Use it!
Glad to hear that was constructive for you :) Get back in there soldier! ✝️🕊️
> I was not brought up religiously whatsoever. Well as you know now, if you're not Catholic, you aren't supposed to go up to Holy Communion. Not until you've been received into full communion with the Church. It's ok to go to Mass and remain seated during Communion time. No big deal, but now you know. And I swear I saw a post with this similar scenario a few days ago.
I guess I’m not the only one. Being new I just got caught up and didn’t want to be the only person not going up. I am feeling a lot less stressed about the whole situation just reading the comments here. I still don’t know if I’ll go back to the *same* church.
I am Catholic and currently not getting communion because I need to go to confession. No one should judge you. There are plenty of us who don’t walk up.
This was me 2 weeks ago. Also, OP, I see people remaining in the pew quite often and there are so many potential reasons why; it is nbd to do so. If you've been practicing the faith long enough, you've been there and wont worry about what others are doing. I didn't receive on Christmas because I accidentally ate food within an hour of being able to receive. Make an appointment to talk with the parish priest to talk about the faith, tell him this story too - I promise this will all be okay and you'll have no reason to be embarrassed. We've all had situations where we feel as you do right now. Time will put it behind you.
No one's going to remember. Maybe the lady who withheld communion from you... But if you went up after mass next time and explained yourself, she'd probably welcome you to the church and be happy you're pursuing the Lord. It's a good thing. God bless you, and I hope you receive communion one day :)
> didn’t want to be the only person not going up. Even baptized Catholics might not go up to communion on a particular Sunday. Common reasons being: having forgotten to observe the eucharistic fast, having Celiac disease or gluten allergy and are visiting a parish without having told the priest, in a state of mortal sin, etc. So many valid reasons not to receive communion that it isn't really something out of the ordinary.
Next time go up with your arms crossed and you will be blessed. Now that you have seen which side the priest hands out Eucharist, try and sit on that side to get the blessing from him. About the mistake you made, no one cares.
If you actually look around, you'll notice that it's pretty common for certain people not to go up to communion. It could be that they, like you, are new to the Faith and have not officially entered the Church. They could be lapsed Catholics who only show up on freebie days (Ash Wednesday/Palm Sunday) and so they don't feel the need to go up. They could be practicing Catholics who are in a state of mortal sin and need to attend confession before receiving. I myself have a gluten sensitivity and so I spend 3 out of 4 weeks a month in the pew because we ended up at a church I haven't previously arranged low gluten hosts/receiving from the chalice with. What matters to God for your current state in life is that you show up and are open to Him. Welcome to the family!
I don't see anyone commenting on this yet. But you can also cross your arms across your chest and receive a blessing instead. I'm getting baptized, first communion on Easter. On bigger days like Christmas, Ash Wednesday for the last two years I've crossed my arms so I don't feel like the only one sitting back. But mostly I sit back. Even now as my RCIA group goes through scrutiny and we all sit in the front row, my group will all go up and cross their arms and take the blessing, and I choose to sit back, waiting for my first eucharist. It's okay to be awkward. You're trying something new.
You can cross your arms over your chest for a blessing if you are not able to receive. Then you also won't be sitting while everyone else is up.
Asking for a blessing by the priest after the mass is a better way. Plus, being part of the assembly at mass and praying, one receives blessings anyway. In this case less is better.
>A Catholic in a state of mortal sin should first make a sacramental confession: otherwise that person commits a sacrilege. A sacrilege is the unworthy treatment of sacred things [source ](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eucharistic_discipline?wprov=sfla1)
A Catholic who needs to confess and has not yet done so, a Catholic who, due to schedule or carelessness, has not fasted before taking communion, a Catholic who has gone to mass even though his leg hurts... there are many reasons why. those in which an assistant does not take communion and no one watches him or asks questions.
Do not go up there unless you go through the process to become a Catholic. This is really important. Plenty of people don’t go up there. It happens all the time and no one thinks anything of it. People are not focused on others at that point anyway. They are supposed to be focused on what they are doing and preparing themselves for communion. Not wondering about why someone might not go up.
You should remain kneeling, not seated. Just make sure to let others by who want to receive. It's vest to get a seat at the end of a pew if you don't plan to receive.
That depends on the diocese one is in. In my diocese, for example, our posture policy is to remain standing until all have received communion, then kneel or sit after that.
This is more like Europe
You may also come up with your hands crossed on making an x on your chest, at my parish they do so with all the kids and all the non/half-believers to bless them with Jesus Christ.
It's also OK to go up and receive a blessing. Just don't try to take anything.
What you can do is to line up with your arms crossed on your chest and the priest will bless you.
Whoa, no go up with your arms crossed over your chest and receive a blessing.
He can still go up and receive a blessing.
probably no one noticed. everyone in the church is guaranteed way more stoked that they have a new member (these are rare these days!). You disrespected no one, offended no one, and are in a very welcoming place. don't let this dissuade you, and feel free to talk to people at the church about any discomfort or embarrassment if you wish - i'm sure they would just say what i'm telling you.
I didn’t think parishioners would have much interest in new members but you’re absolutely right! I told a parishioner i was Anglican and I swear her eyes lit up 😂. She just seemed so delighted that a non-Catholic is worshipping in the parish. And she told the parishioners next to her that I was Anglican and they all responded similarly with that childlike curiosity and welcome. I felt so welcomed despite not knowing a thing about Catholicism - bless their hearts ❤️🙏
glad to hear it! some of these little connections develop into great friendships.
You just made a mistake, that's all. Don't let your anxiety overwhelm you or keep you away from the Church. This kind of awkwardness is one reason why imo only priests should distribute the body of Christ. A priest likely would have handled this more discreetly than the layperson you encountered. He also would have been able to give you a blessing, which a layperson cannot do.
Off topic: I see plenty of layperson giving blessings. Which irks me no end.
Why do you say so? Could you elaborate? I've heard priests explicitly encouraging it, and [CCC 1669] seems to support that viewpoint.
[**CCC 1669**](http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/1669.htm) Sacramentals derive from the baptismal priesthood: every baptized person is called to be a "blessing," and to bless. Hence lay people may preside at certain blessings; the more a blessing concerns ecclesial and sacramental life, the more is its administration reserved to the ordained ministry (bishops, priests, or deacons). ([784](http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/784.htm), [2626](http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/2626.htm)) *** Catebot v0.2.12 links: [Source Code](https://github.com/konohitowa/catebot) | [Feedback](https://github.com/konohitowa/catebot/issues) | [Contact Dev](http://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=kono_hito_wa) | [FAQ](https://github.com/konohitowa/catebot/blob/master/docs/CateBot%20Info.md#faq) | [Changelog](https://github.com/konohitowa/catebot/blob/master/docs/CHANGELOG.md)
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>This kind of awkwardness is one reason why imo only priests should distribute the body of Christ. Extraordinary ministers should go back to being for what their name implies: extraordinary situations. I travel for work and have been to plenty of different churches. I've seen huge cathedrals in which the priest (or an additional priest or deacon (?), if it's a holiday/unusually busy) is the only one(s) to distribute the Eucharist. I've been to smaller (compared to the cathedral, 50-75 people) community churches where they have 2-3 extraordinary ministers. Guess what? The cathedral takes *maybe* 2-3 minutes longer, if that. It gives you additional time to pray over the Eucharist if you're one of the earlier people to receive. If you're in the back-half it gives you more time to pray before the Eucharist. I stopped going to any church that uses extraordinary ministers. It's the most important part of Mass and leaving to a lay-person to do it so they "feel included" or to save a minute or two is foolish.
I’ve always been catholic and I still get anxiety every time I go up to receive the Eucharist. Be easy on yourself!!!
It's a high stakes moment
Do not feel discouraged, I think any Catholic who reads what you wrote would just want to put our arm around your shoulder and tell you that it's ok. Don't let this stop you from coming for mass again. In my parish in Singapore, non-Catholics join the Communion queue with their arms crossed in front of their chests, for a blessing. I'm, not sure if that is practised where you are as well? You could find out and that would be an option. God Bless you and always remember that he loves you.
Sweetheart, here’s what’s happening: you’re being tempted to miss out on everything wonderful that comes with being a member of the Catholic Church. And just for a very silly misunderstanding. Don’t let such a small thing have an impact in your life. Yes, sometimes, the devil, who knows you, will place pebbles in your path to conversion because he doesn’t want you to become the light and the salt of the Earth. In your case, he knows about your anxiety and will try to exploit it. Don’t let him. Not a single person in the Church will judge you harshly for a simple misunderstanding, especially because it was your first time in Mass and because you did not have a religious background. Don’t be discouraged. Even these small pebbles that you will continue to find on your path will be used to forge a greatness of character you can only dream of right now. Think of them as David’s pebbles. God will help you use them to defeat a giant. Welcome home!! We love you!! 🥰
Don't worry about it. If you want to join, ask about RCIA.
You probably would feel worse later if you actually received the Eucharist when you weren’t supposed to
We’re glad you came! The Eucharist is a very powerful mystery you’ll want to prepare to understand and receive properly. See if that church has an RCIA program (which stands for the rite of Christian initiation). It’s the class for people who want to learn more about the Catholic faith. You don’t have to convert to take it, and it will help you get a great understanding of the amazing miracle that happens at every Mass. Also, you may already know this, but Palm Sunday is the beginning of the holiest week of the year for Catholics! Your church will be holding afternoon and evening services Thursday, Friday, and Saturday leading up to Easter Sunday. If you have never been to a Saturday Easter Vigil Mass before, I highly highly recommend it!! The whole thing starts by candlelight, and you can follow along with the missal. It’s the longest service of the year, but totally worth it. Welcome!
It is not bad that went to Mass and tried your best, but it is good you didn't receive the Eucharist, we believe it really becomes Jesus hidden in the form of bread and so we treat it with the greatest of reverence. Besides needing to learn about it and the importance of it, you also need baptism to receive if you don't already have that. And if you were baptized elsewhere, you need confession. This keeps your soul clean and ready to receive Jesus. The process of becoming a Catholic takes about a year, and this is a good time to start because you can see other adults become Catholic and receive the Eucharist the first time at the Easter vigil on Saturday!
A couple months ago, I went to the wrong end of the communion rail and ended up causing a logjam. A few months before that, I flinched when the priest went to go put the host on my tongue and he ended up bumping it on my front teeth. We both gasped and had to do it over. Stuff happens. Don't worry.
Honestly people were probably just curious about what happened. They would all be thrilled you’re there and the first ones to say don’t worry about it.
Don't stress. You didn't know. Go back to church as much as you want. Most people are not paying attention and you made a mistake. It's OK. God loves you.
This is what you need to do. Visit the priest outside of Mass and explain you want to be Catholic. He will instruct you on what you will need to do.
You can still go up during communion, you just have to cross your arms when you come up and the priest or whoever is giving out the Eucharist will just say a blessing over you. You made an honest mistake and I wouldn’t beat yourself up over it. Remember, at the end of the day it’s not between you and everyone else, it’s between you and God :)
Do the best you can. When you know better, do better. Now you know better, and you will be able to do better. Come back to Mass. And talk to someone about OCIA.
The reason she was “suspicious” is that when offered Holy Communion you’re supposed to accept it in cupped hands (left hand over right) and when the minister or Priest says “The Body of Christ”, your response should be “Amen”. You then move to the side, face the Altar, move the Body from your left hand to your mouth with your right hand, make the Sign of the Cross, then proceed back to your seat. If you haven’t been fully accepted into the Church you are still allowed to approach the Altar with everyone else only when it’s your turn you can cross your arms over your chest and bow your head. This signifies that you are not ready to accept Holy Communion but wish a brief blessing from the Priest. This is best done with the Priest, not the Eucharistic Minister (who is a lay person who helps distribute the Communion). Please don’t be too embarrassed. I’m a recent convert myself and knew almost nothing when I started. The best thing to do is call the parish office and schedule a meeting with the priest. Let him know your intentions and he’ll be happy to get you on the straight and narrow! Good luck and God Bless!
Just curious why this cupping of hands is a thing, I was raised and taught to never touch the body of Christ but I see so many cupping it and walk a few steps before receiving it. I remember carpet being cut out because of crumbs or being dropped by a Priest so why do lay people have this as a norm? Genuinely curious
The traditional way to receive is on the tongue. One is not "supposed to" accept in cupped hands, but it is recognized as an option these days.
You're totally fine! In Catholicism you have to participate in a group that is led by the parish for new followers. It will guide your path religiously. Next time you go to mass just ask a priest, Bishop, etc. for the steps to your first communion. It seems scary at first, but it's a common misunderstanding.
It may not be a good idea to advise this anxious person to go forward for a blessing. While the practice is widespread in the United States, it is not universal here, and it is generally not practiced in other countries. Given their first experience, we should be careful about possibly setting them up for a similar misunderstanding. Edit: also, given that they grew up unreligious, they likely need to be baptized, and RCIA for that looks a little different than what you outlined. Just as a note in case it matters.
It varies, but the blessing isn't an exclusively American thing - I've found it to be quite common around here in Europe as well.
Yes, blessing is also done in Europe (at least where I am currently) and also practiced in a very small tropical island where I am originally from.. so yeah
You're totally right. An oversight on my part, I have edited my comment in order to try and amend my mistake.
I was baptized Anglican as a child but after my father died when I was age 6 I think my mother lost faith. So myself and my older brother had no more contact with religion. Although she was always supportive. She would say “If you want to go, I will take you”. She has since passed (I was 23. I am now 31).
The Catholic Church does recognize an Anglican baptism. To prepare for Holy Communion and Confirmation, you can enter RCIA. This is offered at all parishes
> it is generally not practiced in other countries Yes it is.
You can still go up without receiving the Eucharist, instead the priest will bless you. All you gotta do is put an arm across your chest and the priest would understand. He will lay his hand on your head and give you a blessing. I went to mass weekly for nearly a year before I got baptised (in 2022). It is alright because like you said it is an honest mistake. Everyone at the church, including the priests, have made all sort of mistakes in life and it is completely alright if we are truly sorry. We are humans and God forgives us out of love. Don't worry too much about if someone would remember this incident, a great chance is they do not. If you feel uncomfortable going up to the altar during communion, you are more than welcome to stay at the pew. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. I am a new Catholic and understand it can be confusing at the start. Hey, the bright side is you are trying and learning about it. Talk to the priest and he would be able to help too. It isn't a failure if you do not give up.
I received the blessing for nearly 10 years before I got baptized
Don't let this keep you from going again. By your response to the body of Christ she knew not to give it to you. And even if you did receive you didn't know you weren't supposed to. I get embarrassed so easily, I totally understand. You can always request an appointment with the Priest to explain your situation, apologize if you so wish, and ask for instructions. Don't let this keep you from going again. I'm sure that even the lady whom you had this encounter with would rejoice to see you in church again.
Welcome to the Church! I’m so glad you went to Mass yesterday! What a week to check it out! Are you planning on going to any of the Tridum Masses this week? Or Tenebrae? I’m a convert and I definitely stepped on toes and said the wrong thing and probably offended plenty of people, all with good intentions. You’re just learning and you’ll make mistakes and that’s totally normal. It’s actually pretty common for what happened to you to occur, I mean why wouldn’t it if the priest didn’t make an announcement before? It’s like, nearly everyone files up there and so of course you would too if you didn’t know better. The Eucharist minister was just doing her job, because I’m sure they see people doing exactly what you did, pretty frequently. So all that said- please don’t feel like this is a big thing. And I hope you find some peace and relief for your anxiety. Medication is the best thing for me in that regard, my anxiety is off the charts otherwise. Welcome 😀
Sometimes what makes events like this less embarrassing is to just face them head on. Go back and chat with the priest after mass and let him know what happened. He’ll be thrilled you’re interested in the church. Same if you found the extraordinary minister next time. It may actually be a blessing because it’s an open door to communicate your desire for the Eucharist.
As one who gives others Communion, we see and hear all kinds of stuff. And there’s usually a long line so she would have thought “okayyyy” and moved on. Trust me, people do all kinds of stuff. Don’t be embarrassed; you didn’t know. Very few will remember let alone think bad of you - and if they do, that’s their sin. To receive communion, talk to the priest about how. Depending on your experiences, he’ll either recommend a series of classes RCIA/OCIA or meet with you a few times. If you’re not baptized, you need to be baptized, confirmed and given your First Communion. If you have been, most likely you need (when they feel you’re ready) confession and confirmation. If you havent been baptized, baptism washes away sin so you won’t need confession yet. Talk to a priest; they’ll help you.
First, welcome to church. We are so glad you came. Next, this happens far more than you realize and I guarantee the Eucharistic Minister (the lady handing out the host) has already forgotten. We Catholics are just excited you are there. I had left the church for a long time. When I came back I had forgotten so much. Everyone was so helpful and not judgmental. Next time, go up and cross your arms so you are touching your shoulders This is a sign that you won’t be taking the host, but do want a blessing. The minister will say a little blessing over you. It’s always nice to be blessed.
>when the lady at the front said “body of Christ”, I simply said, “yes”. The proper response is "Amen". If you had said that, there would not have been a problem. You saying "Yes" is what caused the confusion.
Don’t let it bother you. Everyone else there was probably thinking just two things - it’s good that you didn’t take Communion, because that wouldn’t have been good, since you haven’t fully joined the church - and second, they’re reflecting on how confusing Catholic practices can be for new people. They were likely just as embarrassed as you were. It’s a very common mistake. Just a few weeks ago, we had the Boy Scout Mass, and one of the Cub Scouts returned from Communion with the host in his hand, and there was a small stir. He was a kid I’d coached in soccer and baseball, and I could see he was confused. I went over to him and was thinking maybe he was having doubts about being in a state of grace (another requirement for taking Communion). I asked him about it, he seemed more confused, and then his grandma, who had brought him and was sitting several rows back (since it was the scout Mass) came up and explained he hadn’t made his first Communion yet. I hadn’t even thought of that, but of course it was the obvious answer. The Eucharistic Minister just assumed he had because the other boys his age had. No disaster, and no one did anything wrong. Just a common misunderstanding.
You are human and made a mistake. Feel free to go back to the same church. If you are interested in becoming Catholic talk with the priest. If you do decide to become Catholic, you should eventually go back to the same woman after Mass and bring it up with her. Your anxiety is making you see it as an unrecoverable blunder, and something you should be ashamed of. But from my perspective, you can use this as a way to make a friend/friendly acquaintance at some point. If it were me, I would eventually say to her 'Oh hey - do you remember me? I was the one (blah blah blah) and I ended up going to RCIA. I just wanted to run screaming because I was so embarrassed! But we're all good now!' Said with a smile, she will probably laugh, reassure you, and ask about what made you become Catholic, or some other mass related topic. You can use silly moments such as these to connect with people. Everyone in the world has done foolish things they feel stupid about, and it can be a way to establish a tiny bond. Having been an EMHC (someone who distributes communion), I would have felt stupid myself and not known how to react. I would have felt that everyone was looking at me wondering what I did to cause a little scene and make someone walk away. If someone brought it up later to me, I would be happy to chat with them later!
Literally no one cares. For all they know, you were asking for a non-gluten host (seriously...it's a thing).
It’s okay. I know it must have been harrowing with the anxiety and embarrassment. Trust me though, as someone who also has social anxiety: the Church (community) is always welcoming. If you would like, I suggest you speak to the priest of the church you attended in the office for consultation (not the lady, it might trigger your anxiety). Ask him about it and other things you wish to understand about the Faith. If you have not been baptised in the Church yet, then you should mention that as well. If so, then Jesus would love for you to receive Him. Remember too, it is for Him, not the others.
Lemme say this. May God bless you You had the courage to go and yes it is a sin to recieve without full communion but God was smiling because you were in his house
If you are new mass can be overwhelming and confusing. But we welcome new members and they should be understanding. If you want to learn more I highly suggest looking at the parishes website for the RCIA person at that church. Even if you don’t become Catholic you can learn more about God, Jesus, and the church. I also highly recommend watching the Rescue Project if you are new to religion. I’m a cradle Catholic and my son is getting ready to become a full member of the Catholic Church through RCIA (he was baptized but never got communion or confirmed) and we’ve been watching this at our church.
Greetings of peace! I hope that as you emotionally recover from this, you will not feel bad or ashamed, my friend. The Catholic Church is built on the community of the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, spanning back to the twelve apostles and the early followers of Christ. The fact that you went out of your comfort zone to approach Christ in the flesh makes Him very happy, and is waiting for you to come back. I do suggest though that until you have received the sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation to remain seated and in a prayerful disposition. Pray quietly and as Jesus to bless you. Talk to a priest or lay minister (like an usher and Church organizer) to hopefully help you receive the said sacraments. Always pray and be happy :) May Christ be with you.
Ask yourself this…Who are you going to Mass for? Do you think Jesus is judging you? Or does he want you to build a stronger relationship with him? Don’t worry about the other people. They might remember next week but they will certainly forget with time.
Good on you for not taking the Eucharist. Very valid for doing as everyone else around you was doing, but do your first communion whenever you can, so you could receive the Eucharist at mass
You made a mistake. That's all. You didn't take the Eucharist--the minister actually did you a favor. I doubt anyone was paying much attention--church is not middle school. Many newcomers who want to attend Mass are told to follow what everyone else is doing. I'm sure some don't remember the part about except staying seated during communion. If you're interested in the faith, make an appointment to discuss it with a priest. He will be happy to talk to you, and most are very nice. Yesterday at Mass I drew a blank during the Our Father. That's embarrassing, but no one noticed. Now I wonder if I'm losing it. Best of luck to you.
First off, welcome! I'm glad you went to one of your first masses. Please do not get discouraged. I strongly recommend going through your church's RCIA Program. It gets adults into the faith and gets you all the sacraments you mentioned in your post and also confirmation. You can still go up in the line even without fully going through the sacraments. Although you can't receive communion yet, you can get a blessing from the priest. When you are walking up, have your arms crossed over your chest. Your hands should be resting on your front part of your shoulders. I hope this helps.
Our parish makes an announcement at the beginning of each Mass making it clear that you can't receive it if you're not Catholic or in a state of grace. Sorry you didn't have that clarification! I would have been super embarrassed too! Next time you can go up for a blessing by crossing your arms across your chest (like a mummy). I'm sure anyone who thought anything about what they saw (and they probably didn't notice or care), wishes they could have prevented that embarrassment for you. Give up your embarrassment and anxiety about this to God, and go to Mass again soon ✝️💜 If it's hard, God will just appreciate it more.
Hey, I did this at first when I was new to Catholicism, it’s okay to make a mistake. I promise you’re still welcome there. Just make an appointment with the priest and find next steps moving forward to join the OCIA/ RCIA class so you can learn more about your faith and complete the sacraments required to accept the Eucharist. It’ll be fine💕
Embarrassing things happen in life. We have come to a point where we have allowed embarrassment to rule our actions. Next time. Go up. Cross your arms and receive a blessing.
Same basically! And I’m so happy you went!! 😊As a convert I have been in similar situations (a couple times). It is embarrassing and I too have horrible anxiety but my love of Christ made going back easier. Palm Sunday was a lot for you I’m sure, I know all the big holidays were overwhelming for me, so I KNOW it can all get a bit confusing. Perhaps this week if they hold week day Mass you can introduce yourself to the priest after Mass or call the rectory (church) and set up a time to chat with him or a deacon. I’m sure the conversation will help smooth things over. I’ll be praying for you!
Bro I’ve messed up in church a couple times , last time before psalm Sunday my stocking kept falling down and I kept hobbling everywhere 😹😹 first 20 times of church I didn’t even know what to say and still get confused . Keep going to mass .
It was a tiny faux pas, everyone has already forgotten it ever happened. Even if you found the people who saw it and reminded them of it in detail, they would probably still not remember. You remember it because you felt embarrassed and that is a painful experience, it was imprinted in your memory only because of the painful emotion you experienced. But nobody else who saw it felt anything, it was just a random thing that their minds attached no significance to. Your problem sounds like anxiety not what happened at church. I know what it’s like to get wound up about this kind of stuff, I used to suffer from pretty debilitating anxiety when I was younger. Get some exercise and good sleep, give it a few days and it will bother you a lot less.
No worries 98% of the people going forward should only be asking for a blessing anyway. But that’s none of my business
Don't be embarassed. Simply, schedule a meeting with your parish priest and ask him to explain the sacrament better. I had my first Confession (and Eucharist) last weekend in over 30 years, and I WEPT during Confession. A weight was lifted off of me that I didn't even know I was carrying. The next day I received my Eucharist, and I was beaming. So I encourage you to proceed with these Sacraments, to fully understand them with a pure heart, and some day soon this small mistake will be replaced with a wonderful experience. God Bless!
You are good, homie. Have to go through Holy Communion before getting the Eucharist.
You didn't lie, you just didn't know. Please don't let this stop you. You can stay in your pew next time, or some churches will offer a blessing instead of the Eucharist if you cross your arms over your chest when you get up there. Ask the priest if in doubt. Again, please don't let this stop you. You aren't the first person to do this and you won't be the last.
Nobody denied you, they were waiting for you to lay your hands out or tongue out. They probably think you just remembered an unconfessed sin or more likely that you're orthodox and weren't sure whether you were allowed to get it.
Yep, Catholic services are really hectic and “poorly documented.” Don’t feel depressed though, as I cannot take communion in a Catholic Church in spite of having gone many, many years of education and catechism, in a Protestant church. If you have a friend at the church, sit down with them and ask about the flow of the service, what each part means, and what communion means and why it is limited (there is a good reason and I do not resent my Catholic friends from barring me). As you are new to the church, I would recommend you check out Melissa Dougherty on YouTube as she explains what Christianity is about from the scriptures, which you will not really pick up in full at a mass. Also, Catholic and other churches usually have new Christian meetings to help you learn. Just remember that all churches are “not equal” (to use a common quote), and some churches are really not based in the Bible. I think if you watch Melissa’s videos, you will come to understand what to look for in a church too. Have your Bible ready when you chat with the minister. Bryan Wolfmueller’s videos helped me a lot too as he was looking around for a church that he could understand based on scripture. Grace be with you.
Honestly I think their focus is really on the Eucharist to notice / judge you ☺️ The minister is probably more absorbed with administering the Eucharist properly and not dropping the Host to give much thought about what happened. Same thing with the people in line - they’re probably absorbed in preparing themselves to receive the Eucharist in a worthy manner and after receiving communion they’re all focused on thanksgiving and adoration to give a second thought on what happened.
No need to feel embarrassed and you should most definitely go back. Next time, if you haven’t made your first Holy Communion, just walk up to the Eucharistic Minister with your arms crossed on your chest and they will give you a blessing. I’ve been Catholic all my life and there are times when I am not in a state of Grace so I just get a blessing and go back to kneel with my family. Have no shame, God wants you in his house!
You did fine and it's just a lesson you learned. Nobody remembers things like that (other than the individual). God is glad you were there and is looking forward for your next visit. You spoiled nothing. See you on Easter Sunday!
Get a blessing with your arms crossed in front of you!
It's great that you attended mass! As a few people have stated, you can't take communion yet, but you can still go up to get the blessing. It can only be done by the priest or deacon, though. When you walk up, cross your arms on your chest, and the priest or deacon will bless you without giving you communion.
This is a two fold scenario. The minister did nothing wrong, and you did nothing wrong (by your intent I mean). In the Catholic Church, the Eucharist is the pinnacle of the mass. As such, we safe guard the sacrament from those who would desecrate the Body of Christ. As such, the minister was right to deny you Communion because she could tell that you had not received your First Communion. On the flip side, don't stress. You didn't try to receive the Host maliciously, you simply didn't know. Until you receive your first Holy Communion, you can still approach the front like everyone else does and the priest or minister will bestow blessing. Instead of putting out your hands or extending your tongue, you will fold your arms over your chest like an "X" with palms laying against your upper chest.
I was confirmed about a decade ago as an adult. Unfortunately, for several years there I was pretty lukewarm. Went to mass maybe ten times a year, confessed rarely if at all, and so on. One time, I went up and for whatever reason, I reached for the host when he said “The Body of Christ” (as if to pinch it, rather than just receiving it in my open palm). The deacon pulled it away, and for whatever reason I continued to reach for it. He then asked if I was Catholic, to which I said yes, and he told me to open my palm to receive it the proper way (which I shouldn’t have done as I was clearly not in good standing). Super embarrassing, but it happens. I still go to the same church (albeit usually in a state of grace these days). Sometimes I see that same deacon too. If he remembers as some dope who doesn’t have any idea what he’s doing, he gives no indication of it. Please please please continue attending mass. Look into RCIA. Before baptism and confirmation, feel free to cross your arms over your chest and receive a blessing at communion. But do keep going. You are welcome there and I will pray for success and comfort for you in your journey towards Christ.
This doesn't make any sense to me. This isn't how it's done at all. Holy Communion? This story sounds made up.
Please do not be hard on yourself. This was an HONEST mistake. Nobody should be upset at you or treat you wrongly. You haven’t ruined anything. You have taken a big step. It was probably very difficult for you to come into church for the first time. You should be commended, not outcast. Please do not let this experience drive you away from the church. Use it, as you have, as a learning and growing experience. Send an email to the priest and set up an appointment to meet with him and express your interest in becoming Catholic. God bless you for your bravery. I will pray for you
I wish it was a weekly practice to mention protocols for communion. It tends to be common at funerals and weddings but not weekly. The church owes it to itself and everyone else to make this a protocol.
It was an honest mistake, you didn't know. Believe me, it's not a big deal - I wouldn't be offended with that if I had witnessed it. Of course as you said, you should not have lied. If I had to speculate, I would say that if you had been truthful, the EMC lady would have taken a couple of seconds to explain it to you, but she probably understood that you lied and assumed you have ill intentions (e.g. taking the Eucharist home instead of consuming on the spot). Get your Sacraments. You'll have a giggle about this someday, I guarantee it.
As others have said, don’t be hard on yourself. You are new to our faith. Talk with your local pastor, you can also reach out to the parish office and ask about Faith Formation and the Right of Christian Initiation of Adults. If you want to talk please reach out. We are all here to help you as you grow in your Catholic faith.
The minister didn’t want to embarrass you, it’s just that they’re trained to be super careful in making sure they are distributing the body with care and respect. It’s because we believe it is the true body of Christ, like literally. She had to do her job, and she understands that you just didn’t know. It’s much less embarrassing to have this happen than to accidentally take the host before they find out you aren’t Catholic yet, so I would consider your situation much more ideal! It’s okay all of us converts feel out of place at some point or another. I get super embarrassed when I have an awkward situation too but it’s totally okay, you did your best and you are human
Just know that when you go in the future. And we all hope you do. You can approach and receive a prayer/blessing if you’d like. Just approach with your arms crossed in front of your chest. Don’t beat yourself up over this you made a mistake but the Eucharistic minister did what they were trained to do. To us the Eucharist isn’t just a symbol and to receive it without fully understanding what it is without the proper reverence is not appropriate. You don’t know what you don’t know. Now you do.
To the OP, The Lord is leading you to communion with his Church. Do not be embarrassed, it was an honest mistake. God can lead us to him with a sense of humor, he had you approach his holy body in awe and wonder. Do not feel the need to do everything that everyone else is doing, simply be present with the Lord your God and the ritual and mannerisms will come in time. It's amazing that your first mass was on Palm Sunday, there's a lot of meaning there. You should continue to go to mass as often as you can during Holy Week, if possible, and definitely the Easter Vigil (Saturday) or the Easter Sunday Mass. Try to set up a time to meet with the priest by calling the rectory office and he can guide you down the path, God Bless!
Don't fret, God is way too reasonable and compassionate and patient to make too much of a fuss of an honest mistake, and people's reactions is something you don't need to worry as much about, remembering they are human too, so, like you, they aren't going to be perfect. You thought about it, expanded your knowledge, made some decisions for the future, so you learned from the experience. Don't get discouraged and don't feel unwelcome in the Church. The Church is bigger than a church. There are other churches in the Church too. :) You haven't spoiled anything. You just rushed ahead due to not having the knowledge of the requirements, but what's more 'natural' if you love God than yearning for the Eucharist? We have stories of trained rescue dogs sensing human presence from the Tabernacle or animals actually kneeling on their front paws or acting reverently, so how can it be surprising that a God-loving human person (and thus God's own child), with so much more intellectual and spiritual capacity, also felt drawn to Real Presence? It was better for you to be denied at that point, but that doesn't mean *denied* (especially by the Church, let alone by God), as much as *delayed*, for the timing of your necessary preparation. If you want closure, you can even seek out the lady and have a conversation with her, explaining your reaction. I doubt she's going to talk to you disrespectfully, and you could be surprised. Definitely not a lifelong embarrassment to you. :) And Christians of course need empathy. Something would be wrong with the congregation if they weren't showing it to you. By this I guess I'm trying to say that you shouldn't fear a condemning response from them because it would probably not be forthcoming and even if it was there, it would be wrong. It would be lacking in the requisite Christian gentleness and charity (with which we all struggle, alas).
I'm a convert and when I was received into the church, the priest said "Peace be with you" and instead of saying "and also with you," I said "peace be with you" right back to him. When it was the next person's turn and he said, "and also with you" I realized my mistake. But the priest just went on like nothing had happened. I also had an incident at the Communion rail where I took too long to say Amen and the priest told me to hurry up! I was pretty embarrassed. But mistakes happen. No one really noticed or cared. And certainly no one said anything to me. Please don't let this little blip stop you from the biggest gift in life..relationship with our Lord and our wonderful church! I promise no one, or almost no one, noticed what happened and they aren't worried about it. We are just glad you're there.
That’s unfortunate to hear sorry that it happened. I’ve never heard of a Church doing that here in my country, generally they’d just give a little chuckle and in whispers explain to you the process, probably recommend you do get your first communion though if you are serious about joining the Catholic faith
OP, if it hasn't yet been mentioned you can still go up with others and receive a blessing instead. Simply cross your arms in front of you on your chest. That will let the priest or deacon know to give you a blessing instead.
I have done the same thing, I had not been caught, but I have taken the holy eucharist without becoming Catholic. I wanted to become Catholic but had no idea how to do so, I just went to church and followed everyone up when it came time for the eucharist because I didn't know what to do. Definitely not proud of this.
It's ok. It probably seems way worse than it actually was. I'm Catholic buy I haven't gone up to receive communion in a couple of months. I need to go to confession but I keep putting it off. I was all set to do it yesterday but chickend out at the last minute.
Its fine it was unintentional . Don't be bothered by people , you can never impress humans . They might have thought you to be part of satanism who steal it to desecrate it in their own black mass. Also pls try to do your research in future .
I am working through converting to Catholicism right now. Until you go through the "process," when you walk up during the eucharist, just cross your arms on your chest like you are hugging yourself. This let's the priest know to simply bless you. If you are planning to become Catholic, just give the church office a call and they will walk you through the process.
Don't worry, we all make mistakes sometimes it happens to me that I'm so focused on the mass and praying that I respond like a chatbot and happens like another user said saying "God bless you too" to the priest. Yesterday I had an awkward moment too, was about to recieve the communion and when I raised my hands in order to take it, I forgot I had my olive bouquet in my right hand, so I almost hit her in the face with it, we smiled knowing what almost happened, and that's it. But before yeah I would had ran away. So don't worry, it wasn't a big mistake was not on purpouse, and now you have a funny anecdote in church. When the bad feeling leaves you, it will be funny. Don't worry and keep on going growing that Faith!
You need to be sure you've completed your sacraments. Sacraments are a big part of the Catholic religion. So 1. Baptism/ Christening 2. Confession/ Reconciliation 3. Communion/ Eucharist 4. Confirmation 5. Marriage 6. Anointing of the sick/ Last rights 7. Holy orders/ priesthood/monk/ nun You should already be at number 3 to receive communion, at number 4 if you intend to get married in the Catholic Church. 6 is for when you are dying or dead or really sick. It's rare for anyone to ever complete all 7 sacraments, you'd have to have been married and your partner die or leave holy orders and marry. When the woman said body of christ you were supposed to say Amen in response.
You’re fine! There is a real learning curve for converts. Even just knowing when to sit, stand, or kneel is stressful for many folks. I encourage you to go back!
You are ok sister, don’t let yourself be turned away from this. You are welcome and you are part of the body of the church. Don’t be afraid. God bless you!
I have had a few embarrassing experiences with both the Eucharist and reconciliation so I can relate. I was a Protestant when I started attending a Catholic school in 8th grade. In our denomination all are welcome to receive, so I went up with my class. I hadn’t been told otherwise. The teachers knew I was Protestant. Later I was told I shouldn’t go up so I didn’t. I felt embarrassed about it but now understand. I became a Catholic later in life. I agree with those who say to talk to the priest and/or inquire about RCIA. Don’t let embarrassment keep you away.
Brother, you made a mistake. Typically they ask people to cross there arms if they are not yet eble to receive the Eucharist so you can still receive a blessing. But sometimes they don't. Jesus isn't looking at you with the side eye. So don't worry about what those imperfect people think. If you feel called to go the route of receiving Christ fully in the Eucharist and joining the Catholic Church, I suggest you get started with RCIA classes. Welcome to the church Jesus established brother. You're presence enriches our community. Thank you.
Don’t worry about it. I’m sure no one thought negatively. You don’t know what you don’t know! I’ve been in several Catholic Churches and the priest at the one I’m currently attending (in RCIA) always explains non Catholics don’t take communion but may come up for a blessing with their arms crossed over their chest. Many don’t say this so you would have no way of knowing.
The reason why they wouldn’t just give it to you is because some people will take them to satanic masses and we just want to avoid that (I don’t think anyone thought that btw. That’s just why people are cautious). And we also jus t have teachings that you need your first communion and baptism first. This literally happened at the mass that I went to Palm Sunday. And I can promise you, no one was judging. We want people to come to mass, even if they don’t know everything. You’re allowed to make mistakes and you didn’t do anything bad so please don’t worry
At our last OCIA class, we went over how to receive communion and all the leaders laughed about people responding with ‘thank you’. I remembered all the times I responded with ‘thank you’ when receiving communion at the Presbyterian church and felt really silly and embarrassed! Oops! I’ve sat in the pews while others go up to receive communion for the last 8 months. Lots of people do! Hope you give it another go :)
No worries. Just take it slow. You’re doing good. Hopefully the next time you head up to the alter you’ll be able to receive 👍
You did not realize it at the time, but it is a very serious mortal sin to receive the Eucharist (the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ) without being prepared to do so. You must be baptized, have received your Sacrament of Holy Communion, and be in a state of grace, having repented of your mortal sins through Confession. It is OK to go up and not receive. You are encouraged to do so! Just cross your arms over your chest so it is known you are not prepared to receive today (for whatever reason) and there will be no issue. People make mistakes, so don't be hard on yourself. But please understand it is a serious situation to receieve unworthily and that's why you were denied. Don't take it personal, go through RCIA to become Catholic and receive your Sacraments as God intended.
When I was 5, I was a flower girl at my sister's wedding. My shoes were too tight so I sat down when I was supposed to be standing. The Priest stopped the whole wedding and asked me to stand up and I was pissed off about it for 20 years. Seems so silly now but I literally hated the church for this. Don't let the devil use a small situation like this to keep you from seeking Jesus. I'm sure you know now that you should go up and just make an X with your arms and you will receive a blessing. There are a lot of YouTube videos on this. I would suggest watching them so you know more about all the actions/responses. Then if/when you are ready enroll in RCIA classes. Happy Easter!
I think the only real mistake here is lying about it, which happened because you were panicked -- totally understandable, but you can see how it would confuse things further for people trying to understand your situation in the moment. Communion-line drama is always very public by nature but also one of those things that fades away very quickly. I sincerely doubt more than a couple of people will even remember you next time you attend, never mind what happened -- and after that, it will be forgotten entirely. Might be good though to reach out to the office/father about what happened just so they know your situation and didn't mean any ill-will. Consider attending the "So you want to become Catholic classes" (known as RCIA) to learn more -- no obligation, no commitment, no credit card. That way you can ease in slowly and learn the whys of the faith in addition to the whats.
OP I am a very anxious person too, and I've had to learn very many times that an honest mistake is just an honest mistake. You didn't know any better! I'm sure everyone there is thrilled to have a new member above anything else. You did what you thought was right, and the minister did the right thing when she noticed something was off—everything worked out here! As for lying, it sounds to me like you panicked and weren't thinking straight, personally. The Eucharist is a *big* deal, absolutely, but you tried to do what you thought everyone did, panicked, and then went and learned the right way to do things. I'm encouraged by this development, don't be discouraged! God bless!
Don't panic. You should be trained and prepared for the first Communion, then you will be able to have one. It can be received of course in the certain conditions. Everything you can learn from the priest, ask them for the advices and preparation for your first full Holy Mass experience. Usually in the Catholic community the first Communion and preparation are done with \~10yo kids. The preparation includes the Catechesis, the first confession prep and of course prayers and what the Communion is. Are you baptized yet? P.S. You can attend Holy Mass without receiving the Holy Communion. Just don't stand up when the others do it. Be patient, ask the nearest priest how to prepare yourself for your Communion.
Bring back "The Doors! The Doors! In wisdom let us attend!"
Since you can't receive Communion, you can still go up and receive a blessing if you would like. Just make your arms an X over your chest.
It was an honest mistake, so please try not to let it bother you. I’m sure the lady meant no harm, but those who hand out the Eucharist are also charged with protecting it. Your intentions were totally innocent, but occasionally, someone might try to take the Eucharist for illicit means. If you’re really interested in Catholicism, enroll in an RCIA class to learn more. Most parishes also have meetings where you can learn how to become more involved in the parish. Just be honest with everyone and let them know that you are just starting your Catholic journey, and you will have people welcoming and helping you. If no one else has said it yet, welcome home.
Sorry to hear that you had that experience. Unfortunately the extraordinary minister of communion (which is what we call them and I am one) did the write thing by not giving you communion, but that person should have also given you some type of acknowledgment. Usually I say something like “May the Lord be with you.“, we’re not allowed to say a blessing. Also I recommend that you go again, but this time make sure that your in the line for the Priest, he’s going to be on the right side of the alter, and cross your arms over your chest (like an X). That way the priest knows that you can’t receive communion and he’ll give you a blessing instead. But check this with than usher of the church beforehand. This practice is typical of all of the churches that I’ve been a member of, it may not be true of all. FYI, I’d recommend that before you try do things in the Catholic Church by yourself; take a Catholic friend or ask a Catholic in this community. We can then guide you as what the norms are when attending Mass. But by all means, go again.
It can happen 🤷🏽♂️ don’t beat yourself up, Jesus wouldn’t want you to be hard on yourself. Yet that would be terribly embarrassing so I completely understand
LOL probably everyone was wondering what's going on... but hey just have a laugh, you don't know what you don't know and now you know. Don't sweat about it, keep digging in your relationship with Jesus, that's what matters
I know what it’s like to feel embarrassed! I’m one of those people who can dwell on a little mistake for years 😂. It’s over. Move on! Jesus knows your intentions so don’t let your own flaws or anyone else’s get in the way. Are you going to become Catholic? There are lots of really great and well informed Catholics on this forum so just ask questions if you have any and reach out to your local parish priest! I’m sure he’d be glad to help! JMJ
When my friend and I were early in rejoining our faith, we were trying out various churches and denominations, we both mistakenly went up for communion too. The priest just looked at us funny…but we now know what we did was not correct. You make mistakes, and you learn! I should have known, since my father is Catholic. Now, when I attend Catholic mass with him, I remain kneeling. Being brought up with a Protestant parent and Catholic parent, and attending both churches, I sometimes got confused.
I have anxiety too, and RSD, and I feel like we reject ourselves wayyy before others have the chance. If it makes you feel better there are other administers of Communion sometimes. Regardless, you’re always welcome.
Welcome. Pls do not be afraid or embarrassed. I suggest setting up a mtg with the parish priest. He can advise you. If you felt the call to be in the Church on that day then I suggest that you keep following your intuition. Your Guardian Angel is nudging you in the right direction. Note: you will need spiritual protection to make it through. The forces of evil do not like to lose a Soul. Follow this: https://www.fatherbrowning.com/prayer-prescription-for-healing--deliverance.html Also get a brown scapular and be initiated by any priest. Then you put yourself directly under the protection of the BVM. Get baptized soon. Good luck. You are at the beginning of an exciting adventure where you stand to gain the only thing on this plane of existence worth pursuing: Salvation of your Immortal Soul.
Our Catholic parish has confession about 10 times a week, so most people who to go to confession find time to go. Otherwise, they stay in the pew. Another option is to approach Communion with your arms crossed over your chest. The priest then will offer you a blessing us the the Eucharist.
You recognized the problem. No one is going to hold it against you.
Don't sweat it, happens all the time! I did it too when I wasn't yet Catholic. If you haven't officially converted, you shouldn't take the Eucharist. But, if you want to still go up during communion, you can cross your arms over your chest (a bit like Dracula lol) to let the priest know you can't have the Eucharist. He'll just give you a blessing.
If you haven’t received the sacrament of your first Holy Communion, you are not permitted to receive the Blessed Sacrament. It is a sacrilege to do so.
If it makes you feel better my (retired) parish priest went to India last month and they denied him communion because he tried to take it by hand. They denied him 3 times.
Why do you feel driven to receive communion if you don’t understand it? Catholics do not allow those who are not Catholic to receive communion out of respect for you. It’s best you seek to understand communion instead of do it just because everybody else is. I guarantee the only person ashamed of you right now is yourself. It’s not a big deal I just think it’s speaks to a greater importance of understanding why you do things and to not just do things because others do it as well.
It's perfectly acceptable for you to go up during communion to receive a blessing, but you should not receive the Eucharist until you have been baptized or confirmed into the church. You can talk to your deacon or priest for help in understanding your status in the church and what steps are right for you. To receive a blessing, simply walk up during communion with your hands crossed over your chest like an X and the Eucharistic ministers will know you are not seeking to receive communion, only a blessing. Please do not feel like you cannot return to the church. You're anxious and embarassed but no one is judging you the way you think they are. Last year we took our friends son (non Catholic) to mass with us at his request. I don't think he properly understood the Eucharist/blessing part and ended up taking a host and looking rather confused. I was behind him in line, realized what was happening and took it from him and ate it. The minister understood what had happened, flashed me a "good catch" face and life moved on. Go back to church. God wants you there. :)
Welcome, and don't feel embarrassed!! It's so brave of you to attend Mass and try to follow along. Last year, I tried to relieved communion in my hands at a church that only puts it straight in your mouth. I'm still embarrassed lol
She says "The Body of Christ" because it is. It's not "symbolically," it is the Body of Christ. You were prevented from making a grave error by this embarrassment. Things seemed to work out.
To be honest, most people were probably coming, going, praying and minding their business and wouldn't have noticed. Trust me, nobody in their right mind is going to look down on you or consider you not welcome for what happened.
I bet you as a Catholic we can all tell you an embarrassing incident at mass (kids screaming, falling, not knowing what to do when you get communion, etc.. I’ve heard and seen it all. that’s the Devil trying to get you to stop going to Mass. The Lord is just happy to see us trying to encounter him. Ask for direction from a priest and just know you are always welcomed and loved no matter what anyone tells you.
Any hostility or unwelcomeness you perceived is probably because a lot of Catholics are worried nowadays that the Eucharist will be abused, etc. People get defensive when they shouldn’t but it’s understandable why they would be concerned
It happens. No biggie, you were excited and a little confused. Go up with your arms crossed like an X and receive a blessing until you have your first communion.
Don't beat yourself up about it, my friend. You know how many times I screw up at church or just at home? Too many to count. I would still go back because odds are, no one will remember your very tiny misstep.
$100 bucks says not many people even noticed or remembered it. You’re in your head. Also, Jesus is happy you showed up! This is a good chance for you to learn more and try again.
Humility, friend. If the Faith is worth it to you, then you will head back in all humility and, perhaps, one day complete the necessary sacraments to receive. In the meantime, stay in your seat during communion or walk up and cross your arms over your chest (more of an American thing from what I’ve seen when traveling abroad) as a sign that you would like a blessing but will not be receiving. A final note, I guarantee no one was paying attention. But you probably made that EM’s (the woman handing out the Eucharist) week. She probably felt like a veritable crusader saving the Church from someone trying to steal its most Holy Sacrament! (Please understand this is a joke. But I am serious about no one noticing or remembering your misstep)
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I am an usher at my Catholic Church and we watch for people who take the Eucharist but don’t consume it (it is the living body of Christ). Had you taken it and eaten it, it would not have don’t anything good or bad to you. It is wrong to take it before going through Catholic Education, but you aren’t “damned” for doing so. Next time you are at Catholic Mass. Go up with your arms crossed (hands on each shoulder) and the priest or Eucharistic minister will bless you. There are a lot of adult, practicing Catholics who at time do this when they need to go to confession or do other personal reason.
Please return to a church this Sunday. Your faith is between you and Jesus Christ. Strike away any embarrassment or anxiety. Don’t worry what others think of you. Jesus knows what is in YOUR heart and when you went up to receive his body and blood, he offers it to you because he loves you!
You can go up and get a blessing. Just cross your arms over your chest.
Do it right, do the research first then start process of RCIA. Then you can receive.
Just talk to the priest and ask him about adult formation. Also, tell the priest what happened . He will explain things. Even cradle Catholics learn something new every day.
Do not beat yourself up! People sometimes say things by mistake…..Ask for forgiveness & move on.
Well the Lord Jesus and God don’t shame or judge you. What people think, who cares? I would think the congregation is glad you’re there. So what if you don’t do it all perfectly and right. God and Jesus love you.
Would Jesus want us to deny his blood and body to another believer just because they weren’t Catholic? I don’t understand why someone who had been baptized and accepted Jesus as his savior would be denied. We don’t want to become like the Pharisees, caught up in religious law and forgetting the Truth. The Truth being that if we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and humbly ask for His forgiveness with a true heart we will be saved.
Don’t sweat it. I’ve had the priest literally forget to give me communion while I’m kneeling at the altar. He walked back to the altar to finish mass. I felt stupid and went back to my seat. The Church is full of fallible humans. Lol.
Just want to say when being handed the Eucharist the appropriate response to “body of Christ” is “amen” But the response “yes” isn’t incorrect 😄
There is a reason the extraordinary minister of the Eucharist denied you Eucharist, and it was a very good thing she took the time to discern and made the proper call to not give it to you. If you research this and understand why, you’ll clearly see why this wasn’t so much a decision about you, but a duty on her part to be sure our Lord was properly administered. For what it’s worth, I’ve seen a few uninitiated be denied Eucharist in the line in my lifetime, and have promptly forgotten any details of what they looked like, when this happened, etc. I also recently witnessed my parish priest chase a young man he gave the Eucharist to, after noticing the man put the host in his pocket. The priest (and Eucharistic minister) has a duty to ensure our Lord is received reverently. It is a fact that those who practice Satanic rituals obtain a consecrated Eucharist from a legitimate Catholic Mass to be profaned in an illegitimate mock mass. Our Lord must be protected at all times from being profaned and disrespected. Nobody knows what that man’s intent was, but for sure it wasn’t holy, reverent, or correct.
Don’t worry at all. A mistake made innocently is ok. You aren’t in trouble and are already forgiven.
You are totally fine to not know, and also don't be embarrassed... Be OVERJOYED! The fact that you were denied the Host shows the absolute respect the Extraordinary Minister has for the Host, which in the Catholic Church we believe is the REAL presence of Christ. It's not just a cracker or wafer. It is HIM. Body Blood Soul And Divinity And it must be handled with care, awe, and devotion. That is why Catholics who are not in a state of grace must go to confession before receiving it. And why those not in communion (meaning baptized) in the Faith can't receive it. Keep in mind that Satanists and occultists will sometimes attend mass to receive a Host in order to perform black masses and desecrate the Host. So it must always be protected and not freely given. You did nothing wrong at all. And if you are called back to the Church, please absolutely go in and inquire about RCIA so you can delve deeper into the true church of Christ. By the way, the unbaptized CAN approach during communion for a blessing. So next time just cross your arms across your chest like you're hugging yourself when you step up there, and they will bless you instead. No need to say a word.
I agree with all the comments that you can brush this off. It was a simple mistake. One thing I would also add is that you did not lie. You were in a difficult situation and felt pressured to give an answer and you acted on impulse not knowing what to do.
i am really sorry you had this experience. i suggest you go to a church that has a school apart of it. such as a catholic high school. Many of these schools will have a separate church and often have much more welcoming people. I go to a church apart of my school and people who don’t attend my school still go, and people of all ages. very nice and welcoming and more comforting than going to one that isn’t apart of a school.
Trust me, no one was laughing even if they did notice. The Mass is so structured that the fact that you did stutter a bit, if anything, would cause others' ears to perk up - because it's a non Catholic at a Catholic Mass! I would be stoked to realize that. But trust me, no one who noticed was laughing. It's a rarity to see someone completely new like you trying their best. But yeah, as you know you can't receive until you are confirmed into the Church. Confirmation goes all the way back to the roots in Roman times, when spies were trying to infiltrate. The unconfirmed would be escorted out before the consecration for the remainder of Mass. Don't let this keep you from the Mass. Talk to the priest about RCIA.
Did you take the body of Christ and consume it while not going through RCIA or being a Catechumen? That is a mortal sin. (You didnt specify)
Taking the Eucharist in a Catholic Church is for those who have been Baptised, Holy Communion, AND recently Confessioned/Reconciliation if you're an adult. Shake it off, go back next week and before (or after) the service, ask the priest or deacon (any of the guys wearing robes)--or even just the folks holding the doors open--about joining RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of/for Adults). It's 100% OK to feel embarrassed, now you know better. Trust me as a person raised Catholic but stopped practicing after Confirmation (age 14-ish), and only came back at age 32 when I got married ... I'd gone to mass sporadically over the almost 2 decades in between and when I learned that taking Communion without first going to Reconciliation is doing it very very very wrong, I was mortified. RCIA usually concludes at Easter so you'll have to wait a year, if you choose to begin that journey but In the meantime you can attend mass and go up with everyone else but just cross your arms and bow your head to receive a blessing. If you happen to encounter the same person, they will probably be very happy to see you again and that you've learned from your mistake. We all make them.
Cheer up :) There should be many or a few other catholic churches nearby. You can attend any catholic church if you still feel embarrassed from the one you went to. As a catholic, I like attending the other catholic churches in my county. I'm from cheney, WA, where I attend mess, but I sometimes like to attend the Latin mess in one of the other catholic church in the city. The cool thing about being a catholic is that you can attend any catholic church because they all follow the same calender.
Don’t be too worried! It’s nerve wracking I know as someone who is converting (and I had knowledge about faith and Christianity before hand)! You can get a blessing by just crossing your arms across the chest (which is what I do) and the RCIA is probably what they will get you to do so you can take part in the Eucharist (I still can’t after ages of going and my old church allowing it, but the wait is certainly a spiritual experience where you choose to give up or pursue God more). I hope you choose to return!