Holy Communion

Holy Communion
Question from Doria2 on 5/2/2008:

Hi Father Echert,

I was asked about receiving Holy Communion twice in one day and told my friend that yes twice is allowed as long as one is while celebrating Mass - then he asked me what about a third time as he is in a choir and does funerals and other functions - I wasn't sure so I ask you - what about a third time.

Thanx for all that you do here - where do you find the time? AndyP/Doria2 - Yonkers, NY
Answer by Fr. John Echert on 5/3/2008:

There is debate on this matter and I am not sure if it is resolved. The former code of Canon Law (1917) did not allow for a second reception of Holy Communion for the same Mass of the same day. The Code of 1983 allows for Communion a second time, even for the same Mass. My own sense of the canon is that it is intended for a second time but not beyond this. Personally, except for a priest who is celebrating Mass multiple times a day, I would not recommend receiving more that a second time in a single day for the same Mass. The intent of the restriction of law is to preclude someone from going from Mass to Mass to Mass every day with the idea of gaining more grace.

That is my personal interpretation, as a non-canonist.

Thanks, Doria2

Father Echert