3 THINGS IT SEEMS MANY CATHOLICS GET WRONG

2) Not saying “Amen”

This might get dropped as people feel pressure to receive quickly due to long lines, but its right there in the Order of Mass: after the priest presents the Eucharist saying “The Body of Christ,” the person receiving is supposed to say “Amen.” This is important because it confirms that you really do believe that you are receiving Christ himself (it might even serve as a good reminder to yourself). There is only one word, so slow down and say “Amen.”

3) Are you in a state of grace?

Of course, it’s impossible to know the state of people’s souls. But it’s not clear most Catholics really understand this: you are only supposed to receive the Eucharist if you are a practicing Catholic in a state of grace. Have you committed any mortal sins since you last went to confession? If the answer is yes, then you need to go to confession before receiving the Eucharist. You should still attend Mass, but if you aren’t in a state of grace, you shouldn’t receive. This is important for at least two reasons: (1) Receiving the Eucharist in a state of mortal sin is a sacrilege. So don’t do it! (2) Not receiving when you are not in the proper state shows your love and respect for Jesus. If you’re in a state of mortal sin, going to Mass but not receiving actually shows you’re heading back on the right track. God Bless!