Communion Line Etiquette

Dear Sr. Manners: Can you offer some comments on Communion Line Etiquette for Catholics before and after Mass?

Dear Gentle Christian: Sr. Manners has observed that more attention is needed when approaching the altar. She has seen those who act as though they were waiting in a cafeteria line -- socializing all the way up the aisle and grabbing their food "to go" as they head for the door. Would it surprise you, faithful believer, that Sr. Manners does not approve? Approaching the altar, the communicant should act in a manner befitting the sacredness of the action s/he is about to perform. Communing with the Risen Christ present in both the bread and wine and in the community requires attention and reverence. Greeting others, looking around, swinging arms, stuffing hands in the pockets, or holding up the line while one performs one’s own acts of piety are all inappropriate behavior. Communicants should approach the sacrament joyfully, singing the communion hymn with the community, without calling attention to themselves along the way.

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