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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
We have now to consider the use or receiving of this sacrament, first of
all in general; secondly, how Christ used this sacrament.
Under the first heading there are twelve points of inquiry:
(1) Whether there are two ways of eating this sacrament, namely,
sacramentally and spiritually?
(2) Whether it belongs to man alone to eat this sacrament spiritually?
(3) Whether it belongs to the just man only to eat it sacramentally?
(4) Whether the sinner sins in eating it sacramentally?
(5) Of the degree of this sin;
(6) Whether this sacrament should be refused to the sinner that
approaches it?
(7) Whether nocturnal pollution prevents man from receiving this
sacrament?
(8) Whether it is to be received only when one is fasting?
(9) Whether it is to be given to them who lack the use of reason?
(10) Whether it is to be received daily?
(11) Whether it is lawful to refrain from it altogether?
(12) Whether it is lawful to receive the body without the blood?
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 1 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that two ways ought not to be distinguished of eating
Christ's body, namely, sacramentally and spiritually. For, as Baptism is
spiritual regeneration, according to Jn. 3:5: "Unless a man be born again
of water and the Holy Ghost," etc., so also this sacrament is spiritual
food: hence our Lord, speaking of this sacrament, says (@Jn. 6:64): "The
words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life." But there are no
two distinct ways of receiving Baptism, namely, sacramentally and
spiritually. Therefore neither ought this distinction to be made
regarding this sacrament.
Objection 2: Further, when two things are so related that one is on account of
the other, they should not be put in contra-distinction to one another,
because the one derives its species from the other. But sacramental
eating is ordained for spiritual eating as its end. Therefore sacramental
eating ought not to be divided in contrast with spiritual eating.
Objection 3: Further, things which cannot exist without one another ought not to be divided in contrast with each other. But it seems that no one can eat spiritually without eating sacramentally; otherwise the fathers of old would have eaten this sacrament spiritually. Moreover, sacramental eating would be to no purpose, if the spiritual eating could be had without it. Therefore it is not right to distinguish a twofold eating, namely, sacramental and spiritual.
On the contrary, The gloss says on 1 Cor. 11:29: "He that eateth and
drinketh unworthily," etc.: "We hold that there are two ways of eating,
the one sacramental, and the other spiritual."
I answer that, There are two things to be considered in the receiving of
this sacrament, namely, the sacrament itself, and its fruits, and we have
already spoken of both (Questions [73],79). The perfect way, then, of receiving
this sacrament is when one takes it so as to partake of its effect. Now,
as was stated above (Question [79], Articles [3],8), it sometimes happens that a man is
hindered from receiving the effect of this sacrament; and such receiving
of this sacrament is an imperfect one. Therefore, as the perfect is
divided against the imperfect, so sacramental eating, whereby the
sacrament only is received without its effect, is divided against
spiritual eating, by which one receives the effect of this sacrament,
whereby a man is spiritually united with Christ through faith and charity.
Reply to Objection 1: The same distinction is made regarding Baptism and the
other sacraments: for, some receive the sacrament only, while others
receive the sacrament and the reality of the sacrament. However, there is
a difference, because, since the other sacraments are accomplished in the
use of the matter, the receiving of the sacrament is the actual
perfection of the sacrament; whereas this sacrament is accomplished in
the consecration of the matter: and consequently both uses follow the
sacrament. On the other hand, in Baptism and in the other sacraments that
imprint a character, they who receive the sacrament receive some
spiritual effect, that is, the character. which is not the case in this
sacrament. And therefore, in this sacrament, rather than in Baptism, the
sacramental use is distinguished from the spiritual use.
Reply to Objection 2: That sacramental eating which is also a spiritual eating is
not divided in contrast with spiritual eating, but is included under it;
but that sacramental eating which does not secure the effect, is divided
in contrast with spiritual eating; just as the imperfect, which does not
attain the perfection of its species, is divided in contrast with the
perfect.
Reply to Objection 3: As stated above (Question [73], Article [3]), the effect of the sacrament can be secured by every man if he receive it in desire, though not in reality. Consequently, just as some are baptized with the Baptism of desire, through their desire of baptism, before being baptized in the Baptism of water; so likewise some eat this sacrament spiritually ere they receive it sacramentally. Now this happens in two ways. First of all, from desire of receiving the sacrament itself, and thus are said to be baptized, and to eat spiritually, and not sacramentally, they who desire to receive these sacraments since they have been instituted. Secondly, by a figure: thus the Apostle says (@1 Cor. 10:2), that the fathers of old were "baptized in the cloud and in the sea," and that "they did eat . . . spiritual food, and . . . drank . . . spiritual drink." Nevertheless sacramental eating is not without avail, because the actual receiving of the sacrament produces more fully the effect of the sacrament than does the desire thereof, as stated above of Baptism (Question [69], Article [4], ad 2).
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 2 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that it does not belong to man alone to eat this
sacrament spiritually, but likewise to angels. Because on Ps. 77:25: "Man
ate the bread of angels," the gloss says: "that is, the body of Christ,
Who i's truly the food of angels." But it would not be so unless the
angels were to eat Christ spiritually. Therefore the angels eat Christ
spiritually.
Objection 2: Further, Augustine (Tract. xxvi in Joan.) says: By "this meat and
drink, He would have us to understand the fellowship of His body and
members, which is the Church in His predestinated ones." But not only
men, but also the holy angels belong to that fellowship. Therefore the
holy angels eat of it spiritually.
Objection 3: Further, Augustine in his book De Verbis Domini (Serm. cxlii)
says: "Christ is to be eaten spiritually, as He Himself declares: 'He
that eateth My flesh and drinketh My blood, abideth in Me, and I in
him.'" But this belongs not only to men, but also to the holy angels, in
whom Christ dwells by charity, and they in Him. Consequently, it seems
that to eat Christ spiritually is not for men only, but also for the
angels.
On the contrary, Augustine (Tract. xxvi in Joan.) says: "Eat the bread"
of the altar "spiritually; take innocence to the altar." But angels do
not approach the altar as for the purpose of taking something therefrom.
Therefore the angels do not eat spiritually.
I answer that, Christ Himself is contained in this sacrament, not under
His proper species, but under the sacramental species. Consequently there
are two ways of eating spiritually. First, as Christ Himself exists under
His proper species, and in this way the angels eat Christ spiritually
inasmuch as they are united with Him in the enjoyment of perfect charity,
and in clear vision (and this is the bread we hope for in heaven), and
not by faith, as we are united with Him here.
In another way one may eat Christ spiritually, as He is under the
sacramental species, inasmuch as a man believes in Christ, while desiring
to receive this sacrament; and this is not merely to eat Christ
spiritually, but likewise to eat this sacrament; which does not fall to
the lot of the angels. And therefore although the angels feed on Christ
spiritually, yet it does not belong to them to eat this sacrament
spiritually.
Reply to Objection 1: The receiving of Christ under this sacrament is ordained to
the enjoyment of heaven, as to its end, in the same way as the angels
enjoy it; and since the means are gauged by the end, hence it is that
such eating of Christ whereby we receive Him under this sacrament, is, as
it were, derived from that eating whereby the angels enjoy Christ in
heaven. Consequently, man is said to eat the "bread of angels," because
it belongs to the angels to do so firstly and principally, since they
enjoy Him in his proper species; and secondly it belongs to men, who
receive Christ under this sacrament.
Reply to Objection 2: Both men and angels belong to the fellowship of His
mystical body; men by faith, and angels by manifest vision. But the
sacraments are proportioned to faith, through which the truth is seen
"through a glass" and "in a dark manner." And therefore, properly
speaking, it does not belong to angels, but to men, to eat this sacrament
spiritually.
Reply to Objection 3: Christ dwells in men through faith, according to their
present state, but He is in the blessed angels by manifest vision.
Consequently the comparison does not hold, as stated above (ad 2).
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 3 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that none but the just man may eat Christ sacramentally.
For Augustine says in his book De Remedio Penitentiae (cf. Tract. in
Joan. xxv, n. 12; xxvi, n. 1): "Why make ready tooth and belly? Believe,
and thou hast eaten . . . For to believe in Him, this it is, to eat the
living bread." But the sinner does not believe in Him; because he has not
living faith, to which it belongs to believe "in God," as stated above in
the SS, Question [2], Article [2]; SS, Question [4], Article [5]. Therefore the sinner cannot eat this
sacrament, which is the living bread.
Objection 2: Further, this sacrament is specially called "the sacrament of
charity," as stated above (Question [78], Article [3], ad 6). But as unbelievers lack
faith, so all sinners lack charity. Now unbelievers do not seem to be
capable of eating this sacrament, since in the sacramental form it is
called the "Mystery of Faith." Therefore, for like reason, the sinner
cannot eat Christ's body sacramentally.
Objection 3: Further, the sinner is more abominable before God than the
irrational creature: for it is said of the sinner (@Ps. 48:21): "Man when
he was in honor did not understand; he hath been compared to senseless
beasts, and made like to them." But an irrational animal, such as a mouse
or a dog, cannot receive this sacrament, just as it cannot receive the
sacrament of Baptism. Therefore it seems that for the like reason neither
may sinners eat this sacrament.
On the contrary, Augustine (Tract. xxvi in Joan.), commenting on the words, "that if any man eat of it he may not die," says: "Many receive from the altar, and by receiving die: whence the Apostle saith, 'eateth and drinketh judgment to himself.'" But only sinners die by receiving. Therefore sinners eat the body of Christ sacramentally, and not the just only.
I answer that, In the past, some have erred upon this point, saying that
Christ's body is not received sacramentally by sinners; but that directly
the body is touched by the lips of sinners, it ceases to be under the
sacramental species.
But this is erroneous; because it detracts from the truth of this
sacrament, to which truth it belongs that so long as the species last,
Christ's body does not cease to be under them, as stated above (Question [76], Article [6], ad 3; Question [77], Article [8]). But the species last so long as the substance
of the bread would remain, if it were there, as was stated above (Question [77], Article [4]). Now it is clear that the substance of bread taken by a sinner does
not at once cease to be, but it continues until digested by natural heat:
hence Christ's body remains just as long under the sacramental species
when taken by sinners. Hence it must be said that the sinner, and not
merely the just, can eat Christ's body.
Reply to Objection 1: Such words and similar expressions are to be understood of
spiritual eating, which does not belong to sinners. Consequently, it is
from such expressions being misunderstood that the above error seems to
have arisen, through ignorance of the distinction between corporeal and
spiritual eating.
Reply to Objection 2: Should even an unbeliever receive the sacramental species,
he would receive Christ's body under the sacrament: hence he would eat
Christ sacramentally, if the word "sacramentally" qualify the verb on the
part of the thing eaten. But if it qualify the verb on the part of the
one eating, then, properly speaking, he does not eat sacramentally,
because he uses what he takes, not as a sacrament, but as simple food.
Unless perchance the unbeliever were to intend to receive what the Church
bestows; without having proper faith regarding the other articles, or
regarding this sacrament.
Reply to Objection 3: Even though a mouse or a dog were to eat the consecrated host, the substance of Christ's body would not cease to be under the species, so long as those species remain, and that is, so long as the substance of bread would have remained; just as if it were to be cast into the mire. Nor does this turn to any indignity regarding Christ's body, since He willed to be crucified by sinners without detracting from His dignity; especially since the mouse or dog does not touch Christ's body in its proper species, but only as to its sacramental species. Some, however, have said that Christ's body would cease to be there, directly it were touched by a mouse or a dog; but this again detracts from the truth of the sacrament, as stated above. None the less it must not be said that the irrational animal eats the body of Christ sacramentally; since it is incapable of using it as a sacrament. Hence it eats Christ's body "accidentally," and not sacramentally, just as if anyone not knowing a host to be consecrated were to consume it. And since no genus is divided by an accidental difference, therefore this manner of eating Christ's body is not set down as a third way besides sacramental and spiritual eating.
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 4 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that the sinner does not sin in receiving Christ's body
sacramentally, because Christ has no greater dignity under the
sacramental species than under His own. But sinners did not sin when they
touched Christ's body under its proper species; nay, rather they obtained
forgiveness of their sins, as we read in Lk. 7 of the woman who was a
sinner; while it is written (@Mt. 14:36) that "as many as touched the hem
of His garment were healed." Therefore, they do not sin, but rather
obtain salvation, by receiving the body of Christ.
Objection 2: Further, this sacrament, like the others, is a spiritual
medicine. But medicine is given to the sick for their recovery, according
to Mt. 9:12: "They that are in health need not a physician." Now they
that are spiritually sick or infirm are sinners. Therefore this sacrament
can be received by them without sin.
Objection 3: Further, this sacrament is one of our greatest gifts, since it
contains Christ. But according to Augustine (De Lib. Arb. ii), the
greatest gifts are those "which no one can abuse." Now no one sins except
by abusing something. Therefore no sinner sins by receiving this
sacrament.
Objection 4: Further, as this sacrament is perceived by taste and touch, so
also is it by sight. Consequently, if the sinner sins by receiving the
sacrament, it seems that he would sin by beholding it, which is
manifestly untrue, since the Church exposes this sacrament to be seen and
adored by all. Therefore the sinner does not sin by eating this sacrament.
Objection 5: Further, it happens sometimes that the sinner is unconscious of
his sin. Yet such a one does not seem to sin by receiving the body of
Christ, for according to this all who receive it would sin, as exposing
themselves to danger, since the Apostle says (@1 Cor. 4:4): "I am not
conscious to myself of anything, yet I am not hereby justified."
Therefore, the sinner, if he receive this sacrament, does not appear to
be guilty of sin.
On the contrary, The Apostle says (@1 Cor. 11:29): "He that eateth and
drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment to himself." Now the
gloss says on this passage: "He eats and drinks unworthily who is in sin,
or who handles it irreverently." Therefore, if anyone, while in mortal
sin, receives this sacrament, he purchases damnation, by sinning mortally.
I answer that, In this sacrament, as in the others, that which is a
sacrament is a sign of the reality of the sacrament. Now there is a
twofold reality of this sacrament, as stated above (Question [73], Article [6]): one
which is signified and contained, namely, Christ Himself; while the other
is signified but not contained, namely, Christ's mystical body, which is
the fellowship of the saints. Therefore, whoever receives this
sacrament, expresses thereby that he is made one with Christ, and
incorporated in His members; and this is done by living faith, which no
one has who is in mortal sin. And therefore it is manifest that whoever
receives this sacrament while in mortal sin, is guilty of lying to this
sacrament, and consequently of sacrilege, because he profanes the
sacrament: and therefore he sins mortally.
Reply to Objection 1: When Christ appeared under His proper species, He did not
give Himself to be touched by men as a sign of spiritual union with
Himself, as He gives Himself to be received in this sacrament. And
therefore sinners in touching Him under His proper species did not incur
the sin of lying to Godlike things, as sinners do in receiving this
sacrament.
Furthermore, Christ still bore the likeness of the body of sin;
consequently He fittingly allowed Himself to be touched by sinners. But
as soon as the body of sin was taken away by the glory of the
Resurrection, he forbade the woman to touch Him, for her faith in Him was
defective, according to Jn. 20:17: "Do not touch Me, for I am not yet
ascended to My Father," i.e. "in your heart," as Augustine explains
(Tract. cxxi in Joan.). And therefore sinners, who lack living faith
regarding Christ are not allowed to touch this sacrament.
Reply to Objection 2: Every medicine does not suit every stage of sickness;
because the tonic given to those who are recovering from fever would be
hurtful to them if given while yet in their feverish condition. So
likewise Baptism and Penance are as purgative medicines, given to take
away the fever of sin; whereas this sacrament is a medicine given to
strengthen, and it ought not to be given except to them who are quit of
sin.
Reply to Objection 3: By the greatest gifts Augustine understands the soul's
virtues, "which no one uses to evil purpose," as though they were
principles of evil. Nevertheless sometimes a man makes a bad use of them,
as objects of an evil use, as is seen in those who are proud of their
virtues. So likewise this sacrament, so far as the sacrament is
concerned, is not the principle of an evil use, but the object thereof.
Hence Augustine says (Tract. lxii in Joan.): "Many receive Christ's body
unworthily; whence we are taught what need there is to beware of
receiving a good thing evilly . . . For behold, of a good thing, received
evilly, evil is wrought": just as on the other hand, in the Apostle's
case, "good was wrought through evil well received," namely, by bearing
patiently the sting of Satan.
Reply to Objection 4: Christ's body is not received by being seen, but only its
sacrament, because sight does not penetrate to the substance of Christ's
body, but only to the sacramental species, as stated above (Question [76], Article [7]).
But he who eats, receives not only the sacramental species, but likewise
Christ Himself Who is under them. Consequently, no one is forbidden to
behold Christ's body, when once he has received Christ's sacrament,
namely, Baptism: whereas the non-baptized are not to be allowed even to
see this sacrament, as is clear from Dionysius (Eccl. Hier. vii). But
only those are to be allowed to share in the eating who are united with
Christ not merely sacramentally, but likewise really.
Reply to Objection 5: The fact of a man being unconscious of his sin can come
about in two ways. First of all through his own fault, either because
through ignorance of the law (which ignorance does not excuse him), he
thinks something not to be sinful which is a sin, as for example if one
guilty of fornication were to deem simple fornication not to be a mortal
sin; or because he neglects to examine his conscience, which is opposed
to what the Apostle says (@1 Cor. 11:28): "Let a man prove himself, and so
let him eat of that bread, and drink of the chalice." And in this way
nevertheless the sinner who receives Christ's body commits sin, although
unconscious thereof, because the very ignorance is a sin on his part.
Secondly, it may happen without fault on his part, as, for instance,
when he has sorrowed over his sin, but is not sufficiently contrite: and
in such a case he does not sin in receiving the body of Christ, because a
man cannot know for certain whether he is truly contrite. It suffices,
however, if he find in himself the marks of contrition, for instance, if
he "grieve over past sins," and "propose to avoid them in the future"
[*Cf. Rule of Augustine]. But if he be ignorant that what he did was a
sinful act, through ignorance of the fact, which excuses, for instance,
if a man approach a woman whom he believed to be his wife whereas she was
not, he is not to be called a sinner on that account; in the same way if
he has utterly forgotten his sin, general contrition suffices for
blotting it out, as will be said hereafter (XP, Question [2], Article [3], ad 2); hence
he is no longer to be called a sinner.
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 5 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that to approach this sacrament with consciousness of
sin is the gravest of all sins; because the Apostle says (@1 Cor. 11:27):
"Whosoever shall eat this bread, or drink the chalice of the Lord
unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and of the blood of the Lord":
upon which the gloss observes: "He shall be punished as though he slew
Christ." But the sin of them who slew Christ seems to have been most
grave. Therefore this sin, whereby a man approaches Christ's table with
consciousness of sin, appears to be the gravest.
Objection 2: Further, Jerome says in an Epistle (xlix): "What hast thou to do
with women, thou that speakest familiarly with God at the altar?" [*The
remaining part of the quotation is not from St. Jerome]. Say, priest,
say, cleric, how dost thou kiss the Son of God with the same lips
wherewith thou hast kissed the daughter of a harlot? "Judas, thou
betrayest the Son of Man with a kiss!" And thus it appears that the
fornicator approaching Christ's table sins as Judas did, whose sin was
most grave. But there are many other sins which are graver than
fornication, especially the sin of unbelief. Therefore the sin of every
sinner approaching Christ's table is the gravest of all.
Objection 3: Further, spiritual uncleanness is more abominable to God than
corporeal. But if anyone was to cast Christ's body into mud or a
cess-pool, his sin would be reputed a most grave one. Therefore, he sins
more deeply by receiving it with sin, which is spiritual uncleanness,
upon his soul.
On the contrary, Augustine says on the words, "If I had not come, and
had not spoken to them, they would be without sin" (Tract. lxxxix in
Joan.), that this is to be understood of the sin of unbelief, "in which
all sins are comprised," and so the greatest of all sins appears to be,
not this, but rather the sin of unbelief.
I answer that, As stated in the FS, Question [73], Articles [3],6; SS, Question [73], Article [3], one
sin can be said to be graver than another in two ways: first of all
essentially, secondly accidentally. Essentially, in regard to its
species, which is taken from its object: and so a sin is greater
according as that against which it is committed is greater. And since
Christ's Godhead is greater than His humanity, and His humanity greater
than the sacraments of His humanity, hence it is that those are the
gravest sins which are committed against the Godhead, such as unbelief
and blasphemy. The second degree of gravity is held by those sins which
are committed against His humanity: hence it is written (@Mt. 12:32):
"Whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of Man, it shall be
forgiven him; but he that shall speak against the Holy Ghost, it shall
not be forgiven him, neither in this world nor in the world to come." In
the third place come sins committed against the sacraments, which belong
to Christ's humanity; and after these are the other sins committed
against mere creatures.
Accidentally, one sin can be graver than another on the sinner's part.
for example, the sin which is the result of ignorance or of weakness is
lighter than one arising from contempt, or from sure knowledge; and the
same reason holds good of other circumstances. And according to this, the
above sin can be graver in some, as happens in them who from actual
contempt and with consciousness of sin approach this sacrament: but in
others it is less grave; for instance, in those who from fear of their
sin being discovered, approach this sacrament with consciousness of sin.
So, then, it is evident that this sin is specifically graver than many
others, yet it is not the greatest of all.
Reply to Objection 1: The sin of the unworthy recipient is compared to the sin of
them who slew Christ, by way of similitude, because each is committed
against Christ's body; but not according to the degree of the crime.
Because the sin of Christ's slayers was much graver, first of all,
because their sin was against Christ's body in its own species, while
this sin is against it under sacramental species; secondly, because their
sin came of the intent of injuring Christ, while this does not.
Reply to Objection 2: The sin of the fornicator receiving Christ's body is
likened to Judas kissing Christ, as to the resemblance of the sin,
because each outrages Christ with the sign of friendship. but not as to
the extent of the sin, as was observed above (ad 1). And this resemblance
in crime applies no less to other sinners than to fornicators: because by
other mortal sins, sinners act against the charity of Christ, of which
this sacrament is the sign, and all the more according as their sins are
graver. But in a measure the sin of fornication makes one more unfit for
receiving this sacrament, because thereby especially the spirit becomes
enslaved by the flesh, which is a hindrance to the fervor of love
required for this sacrament.
However, the hindrance to charity itself weighs more than the hindrance
to its fervor. Hence the sin of unbelief, which fundamentally severs a
man from the unity of the Church, simply speaking, makes him to be
utterly unfit for receiving this sacrament; because it is the sacrament
of the Church's unity, as stated above (Question [61], Article [2]). Hence the
unbeliever who receives this sacrament sins more grievously than the
believer who is in sin; and shows greater contempt towards Christ Who is
in the sacrament, especially if he does not believe Christ to be truly in
this sacrament; because, so far as lies in him, he lessens the holiness
of the sacrament, and the power of Christ acting in it, and this is to
despise the sacrament in itself. But the believer who receives the
sacrament with consciousness of sin, by receiving it unworthily despises
the sacrament, not in itself, but in its use. Hence the Apostle (@1 Cor. 11:29) in assigning the cause of this sin, says, "not discerning the body
of the Lord," that is, not distinguishing it from other food: and this is
what he does who disbelieves Christ's presence in this sacrament.
Reply to Objection 3: The man who would throw this sacrament into the mire would
be guilty of more heinous sin than another approaching the sacrament
fully conscious of mortal sin. First of all, because he would intend to
outrage the sacrament, whereas the sinner receiving Christ's body
unworthily has no such intent; secondly, because the sinner is capable of
grace; hence he is more capable of receiving this sacrament than any
irrational creature. Hence he would make a most revolting use of this
sacrament who would throw it to dogs to eat, or fling it in the mire to
be trodden upon.
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 6 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that the priest should deny the body of Christ to the
sinner seeking it. For Christ's precept is not to be set aside for the
sake of avoiding scandal or on account of infamy to anyone. But (@Mt. 7:6)
our Lord gave this command: "Give not that which is holy to dogs." Now
it is especially casting holy things to dogs to give this sacrament to
sinners. Therefore, neither on account of avoiding scandal or infamy
should this sacrament be administered to the sinner who asks for it.
Objection 2: Further, one must choose the lesser of two evils. But it seems to
be the lesser evil if the sinner incur infamy; or if an unconsecrated
host be given to him; than for him to sin mortally by receiving the body
of Christ. Consequently, it seems that the course to be adopted is either
that the sinner seeking the body of Christ be exposed to infamy, or that
an unconsecrated host be given to him.
Objection 3: Further, the body of Christ is sometimes given to those suspected
of crime in order to put them to proof. Because we read in the Decretals:
"It often happens that thefts are perpetrated in monasteries of monks;
wherefore we command that when the brethren have to exonerate themselves
of such acts, that the abbot shall celebrate Mass, or someone else
deputed by him, in the presence of the community; and so, when the Mass
is over, all shall communicate under these words: 'May the body of Christ
prove thee today.'" And further on: "If any evil deed be imputed to a
bishop or priest, for each charge he must say Mass and communicate, and
show that he is innocent of each act imputed." But secret sinners must
not be disclosed, for, once the blush of shame is set aside, they will
indulge the more in sin, as Augustine says (De Verbis. Dom.; cf. Serm.
lxxxii). Consequently, Christ's body is not to be given to occult
sinners, even if they ask for it.
On the contrary, on Ps. 21:30: "All the fat ones of the earth have eaten
and have adored," Augustine says: "Let not the dispenser hinder the fat
ones of the earth," i.e. sinners, "from eating at the table of the Lord."
I answer that, A distinction must be made among sinners: some are
secret; others are notorious, either from evidence of the fact, as public
usurers, or public robbers, or from being denounced as evil men by some
ecclesiastical or civil tribunal. Therefore Holy Communion ought not to
be given to open sinners when they ask for it. Hence Cyprian writes to
someone (Ep. lxi): "You were so kind as to consider that I ought to be
consulted regarding actors, end that magician who continues to practice
his disgraceful arts among you; as to whether I thought that Holy
Communion ought to be given to such with the other Christians. I think
that it is beseeming neither the Divine majesty, nor Christian
discipline, for the Church's modesty and honor to be defiled by such
shameful and infamous contagion."
But if they be not open sinners, but occult, the Holy Communion should
not be denied them if they ask for it. For since every Christian, from
the fact that he is baptized, is admitted to the Lord's table, he may not
be robbed of his right, except from some open cause. Hence on 1 Cor.
5:11, "If he who is called a brother among you," etc., Augustine's gloss
remarks: "We cannot inhibit any person from Communion, except he has
openly confessed, or has been named and convicted by some ecclesiastical
or lay tribunal." Nevertheless a priest who has knowledge of the crime
can privately warn the secret sinner, or warn all openly in public, from
approaching the Lord's table, until they have repented of their sins and
have been reconciled to the Church; because after repentance and
reconciliation, Communion must not be refused even to public sinners,
especially in the hour of death. Hence in the (3rd) Council of Carthage
(Can. xxxv) we read: "Reconciliation is not to be denied to stage-players
or actors, or others of the sort, or to apostates, after their conversion
to God."
Reply to Objection 1: Holy things are forbidden to be given to dogs, that is, to
notorious sinners: whereas hidden deeds may not be published, but are to
be left to the Divine judgment.
Reply to Objection 2: Although it is worse for the secret sinner to sin mortally
in taking the body of Christ, rather than be defamed, nevertheless for
the priest administering the body of Christ it is worse to commit mortal
sin by unjustly defaming the hidden sinner than that the sinner should
sin mortally; because no one ought to commit mortal sin in order to keep
another out of mortal sin. Hence Augustine says (Quaest. super Gen. 42):
"It is a most dangerous exchange, for us to do evil lest another
perpetrate a greater evil." But the secret sinner ought rather to prefer
infamy than approach the Lord's table unworthily.
Yet by no means should an unconsecrated host be given in place of a
consecrated one; because the priest by so doing, so far as he is
concerned, makes others, either the bystanders or the communicant, commit
idolatry by believing that it is a consecrated host; because, as
Augustine says on Ps. 98:5: "Let no one eat Christ's flesh, except he
first adore it." Hence in the Decretals (Extra, De Celeb. Miss., Ch. De
Homine) it is said: "Although he who reputes himself unworthy of the
Sacrament, through consciousness of his sin, sins gravely, if he receive;
still he seems to offend more deeply who deceitfully has presumed to
simulate it."
Reply to Objection 3: Those decrees were abolished by contrary enactments of Roman Pontiffs: because Pope Stephen V writes as follows: "The Sacred Canons do not allow of a confession being extorted from any person by trial made by burning iron or boiling water; it belongs to our government to judge of public crimes committed, and that by means of confession made spontaneously, or by proof of witnesses: but private and unknown crimes are to be left to Him Who alone knows the hearts of the sons of men." And the same is found in the Decretals (Extra, De Purgationibus, Ch. Ex tuarum). Because in all such practices there seems to be a tempting of God; hence such things cannot be done without sin. And it would seem graver still if anyone were to incur judgment of death through this sacrament, which was instituted as a means of salvation. Consequently, the body of Christ should never be given to anyone suspected of crime, as by way of examination.
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 7 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that seminal loss does not hinder anyone from receiving
the body of Christ: because no one is prevented from receiving the body
of Christ except on account of sin. But seminal loss happens without sin:
for Augustine says (Gen. ad lit. xii) that "the same image that comes
into the mind of a speaker may present itself to the mind of the sleeper,
so that the latter be unable to distinguish the image from the reality,
and is moved carnally and with the result that usually follows such
motions; and there is as little sin in this as there is in speaking and
therefore thinking about such things." Consequently these motions do not
prevent one from receiving this sacrament.
Objection 2: Further, Gregory says in a Letter to Augustine, Bishop of the
English (Regist. xi): "Those who pay the debt of marriage not from lust,
but from desire to have children, should be left to their own judgment,
as to whether they should enter the church and receive the mystery of our
Lord's body, after such intercourse: because they ought not to be
forbidden from receiving it, since they have passed through the fire
unscorched."
From this it is evident that seminal loss even of one awake, if it be
without sin, is no hindrance to receiving the body of Christ.
Consequently, much less is it in the case of one asleep.
Objection 3: Further, these movements of the flesh seem to bring with them
only bodily uncleanness. But there are other bodily defilements which
according to the Law forbade entrance into the holy places, yet which
under the New Law do not prevent receiving this sacrament: as, for
instance, in the case of a woman after child-birth, or in her periods, or
suffering from issue of blood, as Gregory writes to Augustine, Bishop of
the English (Regist. xi). Therefore it seems that neither do these
movements of the flesh hinder a man from receiving this sacrament.
Objection 4: Further, venial sin is no hindrance to receiving the sacrament,
nor is mortal sin after repentance. But even supposing that seminal loss
arises from some foregoing sin, whether of intemperance, or of bad
thoughts, for the most part such sin is venial; and if occasionally it be
mortal, a man may repent of it by morning and confess it. Consequently,
it seems that he ought not to be prevented from receiving this sacrament.
Objection 5: Further, a sin against the Fifth Commandment is greater than a
sin against the Sixth. But if a man dream that he has broken the Fifth or
Seventh or any other Commandment, he is not on that account debarred from
receiving this sacrament. Therefore it seems that much less should he be
debarred through defilement resulting from a dream against the Sixth
Commandment.
On the contrary, It is written (Lev. 15:16): "The man from whom the
seed of copulation goeth out . . . shall be unclean until evening." But
for the unclean there is no approaching to the sacraments. Therefore, it
seems that owing to such defilement of the flesh a man is debarred from
taking this which is the greatest of the sacraments.
I answer that, There are two things to be weighed regarding the
aforesaid movements: one on account of which they necessarily prevent a
man from receiving this sacrament; the other, on account of which they do
so, not of necessity, but from a sense of propriety.
Mortal sin alone necessarily prevents anyone from partaking of this
sacrament: and although these movements during sleep, considered in
themselves, cannot be a mortal sin, nevertheless, owing to their cause,
they have mortal sin connected with them; which cause, therefore, must be
investigated. Sometimes they are due to an external spiritual cause, viz.
the deception of the demons, who can stir up phantasms, as was stated in
the FP, Question [111], Article [3], through the apparition of which, these movements
occasionally follow. Sometimes they are due to an internal spiritual
cause, such as previous thoughts. At other times they arise from some
internal corporeal cause, as from abundance or weakness of nature, or
even from surfeit of meat or drink. Now every one of these three causes
can be without sin at all, or else with venial sin, or with mortal sin.
If it be without sin, or with venial sin, it does not necessarily prevent
the receiving of this sacrament, so as to make a man guilty of the body
and blood of the Lord: but should it be with mortal sin, it prevents it
of necessity.
For such illusions on the part of demons sometimes come from one's not
striving to receive fervently; and this can be either a mortal or a
venial sin. At other times it is due to malice alone on the part of the
demons who wish to keep men from receiving this sacrament. So we read in
the Conferences of the Fathers (Cassian, Collat. xxii) that when a
certain one always suffered thus on those feast-days on which he had to
receive Communion, his superiors, discovering that there was no fault on
his part, ruled that he was not to refrain from communicating on that
account, and the demoniacal illusion ceased.
In like fashion previous evil thoughts can sometimes be without any sin
whatever, as when one has to think of such things on account of lecturing
or debating; and if it be done without concupiscence and delectation, the
thoughts will not be unclean but honest; and yet defilement can come of
such thoughts, as is clear from the authority of Augustine (Objection [1]). At
other times such thoughts come of concupiscence and delectation, and
should there be consent, it will be a mortal sin: otherwise it will be a
venial sin.
In the same way too the corporeal cause can be without sin, as when it
arises from bodily debility, and hence some individuals suffer seminal
loss without sin even in their wakeful hours; or it can come from the
abundance of nature: for, just as blood can flow without sin, so also can
the semen which is superfluity of the blood, according to the Philosopher
(De Gener. Animal. i). But occasionally it is with sin, as when it is due
to excess of food or drink. And this also can be either venial or mortal
sin; although more frequently the sin is mortal in the case of evil
thoughts on account of the proneness to consent, rather than in the case
of consumption of food and drink. Hence Gregory, writing to Augustine,
Bishop of the English (Regist. xi), says that one ought to refrain from
Communion when this arises from evil thoughts, but not when it arises
from excess of food or drink, especially if necessity call for Communion.
So, then, one must judge from its cause whether such bodily defilement of
necessity hinders the receiving of this sacrament.
At the same time a sense of decency forbids Communion on two accounts.
The first of these is always verified, viz. the bodily defilement, with
which, out of reverence for the sacrament, it is unbecoming to approach
the altar (and hence those who wish to touch any sacred object, wash
their hands): except perchance such uncleanness be perpetual or of long
standing, such as leprosy or issue of blood, or anything else of the
kind. The other reason is the mental distraction which follows after the
aforesaid movements, especially when they take place with unclean
imaginings. Now this obstacle, which arises from a sense of decency, can
be set aside owing to any necessity, as Gregory says (Regist. xi): "As
when perchance either a festival day calls for it, or necessity compels
one to exercise the ministry because there is no other priest at hand."
Reply to Objection 1: A person is hindered necessarily, only by mortal sin, from
receiving this sacrament: but from a sense of decency one may be hindered
through other causes, as stated above.
Reply to Objection 2: Conjugal intercourse, if it be without sin, (for instance,
if it be done for the sake of begetting offspring, or of paying the
marriage debt), does not prevent the receiving of this sacrament for any
other reason than do those movements in question which happen without
sin, as stated above; namely, on account of the defilement to the body
and distraction to the mind. On this account Jerome expresses himself in
the following terms in his commentary on Matthew (Epist. xxviii, among
St. Jerome's works): "If the loaves of Proposition might not be eaten by
them who had known their wives carnally, how much less may this bread
which has come down from heaven be defiled and touched by them who
shortly before have been in conjugal embraces? It is not that we condemn
marriages, but that at the time when we are going to eat the flesh of the
Lamb, we ought not to indulge in carnal acts." But since this is to be
understood in the sense of decency, and not of necessity, Gregory says
that such a person "is to be left to his own judgment." "But if," as
Gregory says (Regist. xi), "it be not desire of begetting offspring, but
lust that prevails," then such a one should be forbidden to approach this
sacrament.
Reply to Objection 3: As Gregory says in his Letter quoted above to Augustine,
Bishop of the English, in the Old Testament some persons were termed
polluted figuratively, which the people of the New Law understand
spiritually. Hence such bodily uncleannesses, if perpetual or of long
standing, do not hinder the receiving of this saving sacrament, as they
prevented approaching those figurative sacraments; but if they pass
speedily, like the uncleanness of the aforesaid movements, then from a
sense of fittingness they hinder the receiving of this sacrament during
the day on which it happens. Hence it is written (@Dt. 23:10): "If there
be among you any man, that is defiled in a dream by night, he shall go
forth out of the camp; and he shall not return before he be washed with
water in the evening."
Reply to Objection 4: Although the stain of guilt be taken away by contrition and
confession nevertheless the bodily defilement is not taken away, nor the
mental distraction which follows therefrom.
Reply to Objection 5: To dream of homicide brings no bodily uncleanness, nor such
distraction of mind as fornication, on account of its intense
delectation; still if the dream of homicide comes of a cause sinful in
itself, especially if it be mortal sin, then owing to its cause it
hinders the receiving of this sacrament.
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 8 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that food or drink taken beforehand does not hinder the
receiving of this sacrament. For this sacrament was instituted by our
Lord at the supper. But when the supper was ended our Lord gave the
sacrament to His disciples, as is evident from Lk. 22:20, and from 1 Cor.
11:25. Therefore it seems that we ought to take this sacrament after
receiving other food.
Objection 2: Further, it is written (@1 Cor. 11:33): "When you come together to
eat," namely, the Lord's body, "wait for one another; if any man be
hungry, let him eat at home": and thus it seems that after eating at home
a man may eat Christ's body in the Church.
Objection 3: Further, we read in the (3rd) Council of Carthage (Can. xxix):
"Let the sacraments of the altar be celebrated only by men who are
fasting, with the exception of the anniversary day on which the Lord's
Supper is celebrated." Therefore, at least on that day, one may receive
the body of Christ after partaking of other food.
Objection 4: Further, the taking of water or medicine, or of any other food or
drink in very slight quantity, or of the remains of food continuing in
the mouth, neither breaks the Church's fast, nor takes away the sobriety
required for reverently receiving this sacrament. Consequently, one is
not prevented by the above things from receiving this sacrament.
Objection 5: Further, some eat and drink late at night, and possibly after
passing a sleepless night receive the sacred mysteries in the morning
when the food it not digested. But it would savor more of moderation if a
man were to eat a little in the morning and afterwards receive this
sacrament about the ninth hour, since also there is occasionally a longer
interval of time. Consequently, it seems that such taking of food
beforehand does not keep one from this sacrament.
Objection 6: Further, there is no less reverence due to this sacrament after
receiving it, than before. But one may take food and drink after
receiving the sacrament. Therefore one may do so before receiving it.
On the contrary, Augustine says (Resp. ad Januar., Ep. liv): "It has
pleased the Holy Ghost that, out of honor for this great sacrament, the
Lord's body should enter the mouth of a Christian before other foods."
I answer that, A thing may prevent the receiving of this sacrament in
two ways: first of all in itself, like mortal sin, which is repugnant to
what is signified by this sacrament, as stated above (Article [4]): secondly, on
account of the Church's prohibition; and thus a man is prevented from
taking this sacrament after receiving food or drink, for three reasons.
First, as Augustine says (Resp. ad Januar., Ep. liv), "out of respect for
this sacrament," so that it may enter into a mouth not yet contaminated
by any food or drink. Secondly, because of its signification. i.e. to
give us to understand that Christ, Who is the reality of this sacrament,
and His charity, ought to be first of all established in our hearts,
according to Mt. 6:33: "Seek first the kingdom of God." Thirdly, on
account of the danger of vomiting and intemperance, which sometimes arise
from over-indulging in food, as the Apostle says (@1 Cor. 11:21): "One,
indeed, is hungry, and another is drunk."
Nevertheless the sick are exempted from this general rule, for they
should be given Communion at once, even after food, should there be any
doubt as to their danger, lest they die without Communion, because
necessity has no law. Hence it is said in the Canon de Consecratione:
"Let the priest at once take Communion to the sick person, lest he die
without Communion."
Reply to Objection 1: As Augustine says in the same book, "the fact that our Lord
gave this sacrament after taking food is no reason why the brethren
should assemble after dinner or supper in order to partake of it, or
receive it at meal-time, as did those whom the Apostle reproves and
corrects. For our Saviour, in order the more strongly to commend the
depth of this mystery, wished to fix it closely in the hearts and
memories of the disciples. and on that account He gave no command for it
to be received in that order, leaving this to the apostles, to whom He
was about to entrust the government of the churches."
Reply to Objection 2: The text quoted is thus paraphrased by the gloss: "If any
man be hungry and loath to await the rest, let him partake of his food at
home, that is, let him fill himself with earthly bread, without partaking
of the Eucharist afterwards."
Reply to Objection 3: The wording of this decree is in accordance with the former
custom observed by some of receiving the body of Christ on that day after
breaking their fast, so as to represent the Lord's supper. But this is
now abrogated, because as Augustine says (Resp. ad Januar., Ep. liv), it
is customary throughout the whole world for Christ's body to be received
before breaking the fast.
Reply to Objection 4: As stated in the SS, Question [147], Article [6], ad 2, there are two
kinds of fast. First, there is the natural fast, which implies privation
of everything taken before-hand by way of food or drink: and such fast is
required for this sacrament for the reasons given above. And therefore it
is never lawful to take this sacrament after taking water, or other food
or drink, or even medicine, no matter how small the quantity be. Nor does
it matter whether it nourishes or not, whether it be taken by itself or
with other things, provided it be taken by way of food or drink. But the
remains of food left in the mouth, if swallowed accidentally, do not
hinder receiving this sacrament, because they are swallowed not by way of
food but by way of saliva. The same holds good of the unavoidable remains
of the water or wine wherewith the mouth is rinsed, provided they be not
swallowed in great quantity, but mixed with saliva.
Secondly, there is the fast of the Church, instituted for afflicting the
body: and this fast is not hindered by the things mentioned (in the
objection), because they do not give much nourishment, but are taken
rather as an alterative.
Reply to Objection 5: That this sacrament ought to enter into the mouth of a
Christian before any other food must not be understood absolutely of all
time, otherwise he who had once eaten or drunk could never afterwards
take this sacrament: but it must be understood of the same day; and
although the beginning of the day varies according to different systems
of reckoning (for some begin their day at noon, some at sunset, others at
midnight, and others at sunrise), the Roman Church begins it at midnight.
Consequently, if any person takes anything by way of food or drink after
midnight, he may not receive this sacrament on that day; but he can do so
if the food was taken before midnight. Nor does it matter, so far as the
precept is concerned, whether he has slept after taking food or drink, or
whether he has digested it; but it does matter as to the mental
disturbance which one suffers from want of sleep or from indigestion,
for, if the mind be much disturbed, one becomes unfit for receiving this
sacrament.
Reply to Objection 6: The greatest devotion is called for at the moment of
receiving this sacrament, because it is then that the effect of the
sacrament is bestowed, and such devotion is hindered more by what goes
before it than by what comes after it. And therefore it was ordained that
men should fast before receiving the sacrament rather than after.
Nevertheless there ought to be some interval between receiving this
sacrament and taking other food. Consequently, both the Postcommunion
prayer of thanksgiving is said in the Mass, and the communicants say
their own private prayers.
However, according to the ancient Canons, the following ordination was
made by Pope Clement I, (Ep. ii), "If the Lord's portion be eaten in the
morning, the ministers who have taken it shall fast until the sixth hour,
and if they take it at the third or fourth hour, they shall fast until
evening." For in olden times, the priest celebrated Mass less frequently,
and with greater preparation: but now, because the sacred mysteries have
to be celebrated oftener, the same could not be easily observed, and so
it has been abrogated by contrary custom.
Index [<< | >>]
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 9 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems that those who have not the use of reason ought not to
receive this sacrament. For it is required that man should approach this
sacrament with devotion and previous self-examination, according to 1
Cor. 11:28: "Let a man prove himself, and so let him eat of that bread,
and drink of the chalice." But this is not possible for those who are
devoid of reason. Therefore this sacrament should not be given to them.
Objection 2: Further, among those who have not the use of reason are the
possessed, who are called energumens. But such persons are kept from even
beholding this sacrament, according to Dionysius (Eccl. Hier. iii).
Therefore this sacrament ought not to be given to those who have not the
use of reason.
Objection 3: Further, among those that lack the use of reason are children,
the most innocent of all. But this sacrament is not given to children.
Therefore much less should it be given to others deprived of the use of
reason.
On the contrary, We read in the First Council of Orange, (Canon 13); and
the same is to be found in the Decretals (xxvi, 6): "All things that
pertain to piety are to be given to the insane": and consequently, since
this is the "sacrament of piety," it must be given to them.
I answer that, Men are said to be devoid of reason in two ways. First,
when they are feeble-minded, as a man who sees dimly is said not to see:
and since such persons can conceive some devotion towards this sacrament,
it is not to be denied them.
In another way men are said not to possess fully the use of reason.
Either, then, they never had the use of reason, and have remained so from
birth; and in that case this sacrament is not to be given to them,
because in no way has there been any preceding devotion towards the
sacrament: or else, they were not always devoid of reason, and then, if
when they formerly had their wits they showed devotion towards this
sacrament, it ought to be given to them in the hour of death; unless
danger be feared of vomiting or spitting it out. Hence we read in the
acts of the Fourth Council of Carthage (Canon 76). and the same is to be
found in the Decretals (xxvi, 6): "If a sick man ask to receive the
sacrament of Penance; and if, when the priest who has been sent for comes
to him, he be so weak as to be unable to speak, or becomes delirious, let
them, who heard him ask, bear witness, and let him receive the sacrament
of Penance. then if it be thought that he is going to die shortly, let
him be reconciled by imposition of hands, and let the Eucharist be placed
in his mouth."
Reply to Objection 1: Those lacking the use of reason can have devotion towards
the sacrament; actual devotion in some cases, and past in others.
Reply to Objection 2: Dionysius is speaking there of energumens who are not yet
baptized, in whom the devil's power is not yet extinct, since it thrives
in them through the presence of original sin. But as to baptized persons
who are vexed in body by unclean spirits, the same reason holds good of
them as of others who are demented. Hence Cassian says (Collat. vii): "We
do not remember the most Holy Communion to have ever been denied by our
elders to them who are vexed by unclean spirits."
Reply to Objection 3: The same reason holds good of newly born children as of the
insane who never have had the use of reason: consequently, the sacred
mysteries are not to be given to them. Although certain Greeks do the
contrary, because Dionysius says (Eccl. Hier. ii) that Holy Communion is
to be given to them who are baptized; not understanding that Dionysius is
speaking there of the Baptism of adults. Nor do they suffer any loss of
life from the fact of our Lord saying (@Jn. 6:54), "Except you eat the
flesh of the Son of Man, and drink His blood, you shall not have life in
you"; because, as Augustine writes to Boniface (Pseudo-Beda, Comment. in
1 Cor. 10:17), "then every one of the faithful becomes a partaker," i.e.
spiritually, "of the body and blood of the Lord, when he is made a member
of Christ's body in Baptism." But when children once begin to have some
use of reason so as to be able to conceive some devotion for the
sacrament, then it can be given to them.
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Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 10 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It does not appear to be lawful to receive this sacrament daily,
because, as Baptism shows forth our Lord's Passion, so also does this
sacrament. Now one may not be baptized several times, but only once,
because "Christ died once" only "for our sins," according to 1 Pt. 3:18.
Therefore, it seems unlawful to receive this sacrament daily.
Objection 2: Further, the reality ought to answer to the figure. But the
Paschal Lamb, which was the chief figure of this sacrament, as was said
above (Question [73], Article [9]) was eaten only once in the year; while the Church
once a year commemorates Christ's Passion, of which this sacrament is the
memorial. It seems, then, that it is lawful to receive this sacrament not
daily, but only once in the year.
Objection 3: Further, the greatest reverence is due to this sacrament as
containing Christ. But it is a token of reverence to refrain from
receiving this sacrament; hence the Centurion is praised for saying (@Mt. 8:8), "Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof";
also Peter, for saying (@Lk. 5:8), "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man,
O Lord." Therefore, it is not praiseworthy for a man to receive this
sacrament daily.
Objection 4: Further, if it were a praiseworthy custom to receive this
sacrament frequently, then the oftener it were taken the more
praise-worthy it would be. But there would be greater frequency if one
were to receive it several. times daily; and yet this is not the custom
of the Church. Consequently, it does not seem praiseworthy to receive it
daily.
Objection 5: Further, the Church by her statutes intends to promote the
welfare of the faithful. But the Church's statute only requires Communion
once a year; hence it is enacted (Extra, De Poenit. et Remiss. xii): "Let
every person of either sex devoutly receive the sacrament of the
Eucharist at least at Easter; unless by the advice of his parish priest,
and for some reasonable cause, he considers he ought to refrain from
receiving for a time." Consequently, it is not praiseworthy to receive
this sacrament daily.
On the contrary, Augustine says (De Verb. Dom., Serm. xxviii): "This is
our daily bread; take it daily, that it may profit thee daily."
I answer that, There are two things to be considered regarding the use
of this sacrament. The first is on the part of the sacrament itself, the
virtue of which gives health to men; and consequently it is profitable to
receive it daily so as to receive its fruits daily. Hence Ambrose says
(De Sacram. iv): "If, whenever Christ's blood is shed, it is shed for the
forgiveness of sins, I who sin often, should receive it often: I need a
frequent remedy." The second thing to be considered is on the part of the
recipient, who is required to approach this sacrament with great
reverence and devotion. Consequently, if anyone finds that he has these
dispositions every day, he will do well to receive it daily. Hence,
Augustine after saying, "Receive daily, that it may profit thee daily,"
adds: "So live, as to deserve to receive it daily." But because many
persons are lacking in this devotion, on account of the many drawbacks
both spiritual and corporal from which they suffer, it is not expedient
for all to approach this sacrament every day; but they should do so as
often as they find themselves properly disposed. Hence it is said in De
Eccles. Dogmat. liii: "I neither praise nor blame daily reception of the
Eucharist."
Reply to Objection 1: In the sacrament of Baptism a man is conformed to Christ's
death, by receiving His character within him. And therefore, as Christ
died but once, so a man ought to be baptized but once. But a man does not
receive Christ's character in this sacrament; He receives Christ Himself,
Whose virtue endures for ever. Hence it is written (@Heb. 10:14): "By one
oblation He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified."
Consequently, since man has daily need of Christ's health-giving virtue,
he may commendably receive this sacrament every day.
And since Baptism is above all a spiritual regeneration, therefore, as a
man is born naturally but once, so ought he by Baptism to be reborn
spiritually but once, as Augustine says (Tract. xi in Joan.), commenting
on Jn. 3:4, "How can a man be born again, when he is grown old?" But this
sacrament is spiritual food; hence, just as bodily food is taken every
day, so is it a good thing to receive this sacrament every day. Hence it
is that our Lord (@Lk. 11:3), teaches us to pray, "Give us this day our
daily bread": in explaining which words Augustine observes (De Verb.
Dom., Serm. xxviii): "If you receive it," i.e. this sacrament, every day,
"every day is today for thee, and Christ rises again every day in thee,
for when Christ riseth it is today."
Reply to Objection 2: The Paschal Lamb was the figure of this sacrament chiefly
as to Christ's Passion represented therein; and therefore it was partaken
of once a year only, since Christ died but once. And on this account the
Church celebrates once a year the remembrance of Christ's Passion. But in
this sacrament the memorial of His Passion is given by way of food which
is partaken of daily; and therefore in this respect it is represented by
the manna which was given daily to the people in the desert.
Reply to Objection 3: Reverence for this sacrament consists in fear associated
with love; consequently reverential fear of God is called filial fear, as
was said in the FS, Question [67], Article [4], ad 2; SS, Question [19], Articles [9],11,12; because
the desire of receiving arises from love, while the humility of reverence
springs from fear. Consequently, each of these belongs to the reverence
due to this sacrament; both as to receiving it daily, and as to
refraining from it sometimes. Hence Augustine says (Ep. liv): "If one
says that the Eucharist should not be received daily, while another
maintains the contrary, let each one do as according to his devotion he
thinketh right; for Zaccheus and the Centurion did not contradict one
another while the one received the Lord with joy, whereas the other said:
'Lord I am not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof'; since both
honored our Saviour, though not in the same way." But love and hope,
whereunto the Scriptures constantly urge us, are preferable to fear.
Hence, too, when Peter had said, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man,
O Lord," Jesus answered: "Fear not."
Reply to Objection 4: Because our Lord said (@Lk. 11:3), "Give us this day our daily bread," we are not on that account to communicate several times daily, for, by one daily communion the unity of Christ's Passion is set forth.
Reply to Objection 5: Various statutes have emanated according to the various
ages of the Church. In the primitive Church, when the devotion of the
Christian faith was more flourishing, it was enacted that the faithful
should communicate daily: hence Pope Anaclete says (Ep. i): "When the
consecration is finished, let all communicate who do not wish to cut
themselves off from the Church; for so the apostles have ordained, and
the holy Roman Church holds." Later on, when the fervor of faith relaxed,
Pope Fabian (Third Council of Tours, Canon 1) gave permission "that all
should communicate, if not more frequently, at least three times in the
year, namely, at Easter, Pentecost, and Christmas." Pope Soter likewise
(Second Council of Chalon, Canon xlvii) declares that Communion should be
received "on Holy Thursday," as is set forth in the Decretals (De
Consecratione, dist. 2). Later on, when "iniquity abounded and charity
grew cold" (@Mt. 24:12), Pope Innocent III commanded that the faithful
should communicate "at least once a year," namely, "at Easter." However,
in De Eccles. Dogmat. xxiii, the faithful are counseled "to communicate
on all Sundays."
Index [<< | >>]
Third Part [<< | >>]
Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 11 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems to be lawful to abstain altogether from Communion.
Because the Centurion is praised for saying (@Mt. 8:8): "Lord, I am not
worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof"; and he who deems that he
ought to refrain entirely from Communion can be compared to the
Centurion, as stated above (Article [10], ad 3). Therefore, since we do not read
of Christ entering his house, it seems to be lawful for any individual to
abstain from Communion his whole life long.
Objection 2: Further, it is lawful for anyone to refrain from what is not of
necessity for salvation. But this sacrament is not of necessity for
salvation, as was stated above (Question [73], Article [3]). Therefore it is permissible
to abstain from Communion altogether.
Objection 3: Further, sinners are not bound to go to Communion: hence Pope
Fabian (Third Council of Tours, Canon 1) after saying, "Let all
communicate thrice each year," adds: "Except those who are hindered by
grievous crimes." Consequently, if those who are not in the state of sin
are bound to go to Communion, it seems that sinners are better off than
good people, which is unfitting. Therefore, it seems lawful even for the
godly to refrain from Communion.
On the contrary, Our Lord said (@Jn. 6:54): "Except ye eat the flesh of
the Son of Man, and drink His blood, you shall not have life in you."
I answer that, As stated above (Article [1]), there are two ways of receiving
this sacrament namely, spiritually and sacramentally. Now it is clear
that all are bound to eat it at least spiritually, because this is to be
incorporated in Christ, as was said above (Question [73], Article [3], ad 1). Now
spiritual eating comprises the desire or yearning for receiving this
sacrament, as was said above (Article [1], ad 3, Article [2]). Therefore, a man cannot
be saved without desiring to receive this sacrament.
Now a desire would be vain except it were fulfilled when opportunity
presented itself. Consequently, it is evident that a man is bound to
receive this sacrament, not only by virtue of the Church's precept, but
also by virtue of the Lord's command (@Lk. 22:19): "Do this in memory of
Me." But by the precept of the Church there are fixed times for
fulfilling Christ's command.
Reply to Objection 1: As Gregory says: "He is truly humble, who is not obstinate
in rejecting what is commanded for his good." Consequently, humility is
not praiseworthy if anyone abstains altogether from Communion against the
precept of Christ and the Church. Again the Centurion was not commanded
to receive Christ into his house.
Reply to Objection 2: This sacrament is said not to be as necessary as Baptism,
with regard to children, who can be saved without the Eucharist, but not
without the sacrament of Baptism: both, however, are of necessity with
regard to adults.
Reply to Objection 3: Sinners suffer great loss in being kept back from receiving
this sacrament, so that they are not better off on that account; and
although while continuing in their sins they are not on that account
excused from transgressing the precept, nevertheless, as Pope Innocent
III says, penitents, "who refrain on the advice of their priest," are
excused.
Index [<< | >>]
Third Part [<< | >>]
Question: 80 [<< | >>]
Article: 12 [<< | >>]
Objection 1: It seems unlawful to receive the body of Christ without the
blood. For Pope Gelasius says (cf. De Consecr. ii): "We have learned that
some persons after taking only a portion of the sacred body, abstain from
the chalice of the sacred blood. I know not for what superstitious motive
they do this: therefore let them either receive the entire sacrament, or
let them be withheld from the sacrament altogether." Therefore it is not
lawful to receive the body of Christ without His blood.
Objection 2: Further, the eating of the body and the drinking of the blood are
required for the perfection of this sacrament, as stated above (Question [73], Article [2]; Question [76], Article [2], ad 1). Consequently, if the body be taken without the
blood, it will be an imperfect sacrament, which seems to savor of
sacrilege; hence Pope Gelasius adds (cf. De Consecr. ii), "because the
dividing of one and the same mystery cannot happen without a great
sacrilege."
Objection 3: Further, this sacrament is celebrated in memory of our Lord's
Passion, as stated above (Question [73], Articles [4],5; Question [74], Article [1]), and is received
for the health of soul. But the Passion is expressed in the blood rather
than in the body; moreover, as stated above (Question [74], Article [1]), the blood is
offered for the health of the soul. Consequently, one ought to refrain
from receiving the body rather than the blood. Therefore, such as
approach this sacrament ought not to take Christ's body without His blood.
On the contrary, It is the custom of many churches for the body of
Christ to be given to the communicant without His blood.
I answer that, Two points should be observed regarding the use of this
sacrament, one on the part of the sacrament, the other on the part of the
recipients; on the part of the sacrament it is proper for both the body
and the blood to be received, since the perfection of the sacrament lies
in both, and consequently, since it is the priest's duty both to
consecrate and finish the sacrament, he ought on no account to receive
Christ's body without the blood.
But on the part of the recipient the greatest reverence and caution are
called for, lest anything happen which is unworthy of so great a mystery.
Now this could especially happen in receiving the blood, for, if
incautiously handled, it might easily be spilt. And because the multitude
of the Christian people increased, in which there are old, young, and
children, some of whom have not enough discretion to observe due caution
in using this sacrament, on that account it is a prudent custom in some
churches for the blood not to be offered to the reception of the people,
but to be received by the priest alone.
Reply to Objection 1: Pope Gelasius is speaking of priests, who, as they
consecrate the entire sacrament, ought to communicate in the entire
sacrament. For, as we read in the (Twelfth) Council of Toledo, "What kind
of a sacrifice is that, wherein not even the sacrificer is known to have
a share?"
Reply to Objection 2: The perfection of this sacrament does not lie in the use of
the faithful, but in the consecration of the matter. And hence there is
nothing derogatory to the perfection of this sacrament; if the people
receive the body without the blood, provided that the priest who
consecrates receive both.
Reply to Objection 3: Our Lord's Passion is represented in the very consecration
of this sacrament, in which the body ought not to be consecrated without
the blood. But the body can be received by the people without the blood:
nor is this detrimental to the sacrament. Because the priest both offers
and consumes the blood on behalf of all; and Christ is fully contained
under either species, as was shown above (Question [76], Article [2]).