If Im Catholic and in attendance at a non-Catholic service, may I receive Communion?
No. One of the greatest stumbling blocks to Christian unity is the varying beliefs about holy Communion and the Eucharist. Only a validly ordained bishop or priest is able to preside at Mass and to confect the Eucharist, and consequently to bring about the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. When non-Catholics celebrate communion, they often say similar words that we hear at Mass. However, because a bishop or priest is not saying the words, the Real Presence of Jesus Christ does not result at their celebrations. Non-Catholics have different beliefs about the Eucharist. Many of them do not believe in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. In addition, the celebration and the reception of holy Communion are supposed to be a manifestation of a common belief and unity in the faith. There are still many differences between Catholics and other Christians. Until the day comes when we share all beliefs and a common faith, receiving communion at a non-Catholic service w
