Preaching During Holy Communion
Preaching During Holy Communion
Question
Is it permissible to deliver a sermon during the distribution of Holy Communion, while the faithful are partaking of the Holy Mysteries?
Answer
This is not permissible, because it shows a lack of reverence for these sacred moments and distracts attention from the Holy Mysteries.
The time of Holy Communion is fitting for praise, hymns, and sacred chants.
At this time, the Church stands to glorify God for His grace, which He has abundantly bestowed upon us by allowing us to partake of His most holy Body and Blood.
To turn our attention away from the Word of God to the words of men is neither proper nor permissible. In doing so, we forget the great Mystery present upon the altar and direct our thoughts and senses instead to the subject of the sermon.
Nor should we forget that people usually listen to sermons while seated, whereas the time of Holy Communion is not a time appropriate for sitting.
