Communion, God’s Presence, and Death with “Dignity” amidst the Coronavirus Pandemic

In my last article in Homiletic and Pastoral Review, entitled “Benedict XVI on Self-‘Excommunication,’”[1. Joel R. Gallagher, “Benedict XVI on Self-‘Excommunication,’” Homiletic and Pastoral Review (January 26, 2020).] I examined the value o … [Read more...]

Benedict XVI on Self-“Excommunication”

In his Encyclical Eccelsia De Eucharista, Saint John Paul II reiterated the proclamation of the Second Vatican Council that the celebration of the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life.”[1. Pope John Paul II, Ecclesia De … [Read more...]

Questions Answered

Question: Would you care to comment on women deaconesses? The question of reinstating them has been raised by a Cardinal. Answer: The question of women deaconesses is a long and complicated one. It has arisen because the Church is clear … [Read more...]

Questions Answered

What should be done if the priest runs out of hosts once communion begins? Do cough drops violate the Communion fast? Question: I recently attended Mass, and after Communion began, the priests realized there were not enough hosts. … [Read more...]

Fasting and the Call to Holiness

Our salvation depends wholly on God’s grace, of which we are completely undeserving. But through fasting, as well as through prayer and almsgiving, we can open up space for God’s grace to enter. The Second Vatican Council’s document, … [Read more...]

Furthering My Proposal to Extend the Fast for Holy Communion

The problem of unworthy Communions under the current one-hour fast rule arises thus: first, Catholics are gravely bound to attend Mass on Sunday and holy days of obligation, and second, the Church strongly encourages the faithful to receive … [Read more...]