Holy Communion

Eucharist


Holy Mass: Sacrifice, Celebration & Thanksgiving

At the Celebration of Mass or the Lord’s Supper, the People of God are called together into one to celebrate the memorial of the Lord’s Paschal Mystery, the Eucharistic sacrifice. The Eucharistic Sacrifice makes the gathered community present at the Last Supper, Calvary, Christ’s entombment and the Resurrection of Christ. It is the obligation of faithful Catholics to “keep holy the Lord’s day” through participation at the Celebration of Mass. At this gathering, following the traditions set out in the Acts of the Apostles, singing at least some parts of the Mass is encouraged. If anyone of the parishioners is celebrating a special occasion, like a wedding anniversary, birthday, or the anniversary of a deceased relative, he/she is welcome to arrange with the priest to join the Offertory Procession, taking gifts to the Altar.
Only baptised Catholics who have prepared themselves are invited to receive Holy Communion. Holy Communion is a sign of the oneness of faith and unity within the community, while also being the nourishment of Christ’s body for our journey through life. The Body of Christ is given to the communicant normally in their open hand or on the tongue; and it is to be eaten at once with devotion and reverence. Should you see anyone behaving differently, urge them to consume immediately. Sick or immobile communicants are welcome to organise with the priest or the acolyte to receive communion at their seats.
Non-Catholics and Catholics who are not prepared to receive Holy Communion on a particular day are invited to come forward and receive a blessing from the priest or deacon. This is indicated by placing your hand on your shoulder when approaching the priest.
Getting together on Sundays is an occasion to greet one another and to celebrate the joy of Christ together. Making oneself available for socialising before and after Mass will enhance the celebration of God’s love.

First Holy Communion for Children

The Sacrament of First Holy Communion is celebrated here at St Felix for Children in year 4 or above who have been baptised and have celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation. First Holy Communion dates are organised at the beginning of each year in collaboration with St Felix Primary School.

Holy Communion for the Sick

Our parish is built around the acceptance of a desire to gather as a faith community. The sacramental, liturgical and pastoral life of the parish, are intertwined. The fruit of this life according to the Spirit is holiness. Visits to the sick and elderly could be either to comfort them in their loneliness or to take Holy Communion to them.
If at any time, you or one of your family cannot attend Mass due to sickness, we are only too happy to make arrangements for that person to receive Communion at home. Sickness is not to be a barrier to receiving Communion. It should in fact be a greater reason for receiving the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Communion is brought to the sick by a priest or deacon, or by one of the acolytes or Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
When Holy Communion is brought to the sick at home, it is good to prepare with prayer and also by having a place prepared alongside the sick person. A small crucifix and a candle on a white cloth should be sufficient. A glass of water for the sick person will help if he/she has trouble swallowing.