Eat and drink

Picture source is here

A distinguishing feature of the celebration of the Eucharist in the Roman Catholic Church is that, in most instances – at least in my observation over several decades – Holy Communion is provided under one species only, namely the consecrated bread rather than the consecrated wine. The practice in the Eastern rites is different, where Communion is almost always given under both kinds.

This is what the Catechism of the Catholic Church has to say on the matter (#1390):

Since Christ is sacramentally present under each of the species, communion under the species of bread alone makes it possible to receive all the fruit of Eucharistic grace. For pastoral reasons this manner of receiving communion has been legitimately established as the most common form in the Latin rite. But "the sign of communion is more complete when given under both kinds, since in that form the sign of the Eucharistic meal appears more clearly."  This is the usual form of receiving communion in the Eastern rites.

No convincing explanation – theological or practical – is provided for the continuance of this practice in the Roman Catholic Church. True, the Church does affirm that there is no loss of grace or validity when communion is under one species. And, as the above quotation makes clear the distinction between East and West lies in custom rather than any doctrinal difference.

I have no idea why it is so except to assume that it reflects the practice of a habit that endures from former times when excessive worry about possible spillage of the precious blood was a factor.  It is also possible that factors such as ease of distribution as well as possible concerns about hygiene and logistical arrangements still weigh. But, if packed Anglican churches in Nigeria can do it why can’t diminishing congregations in Roman Catholic churches in Ireland do it?

In any case, the words of the Lord – “Take this, all of you, and drink from it” – together with the general pattern of early Christian practice and the teaching of the Catechism, provide a basis for reflecting on possible development in this area. While there is no obligation for the faithful to receive under both species, neither is there any absolute requirement that local churches refrain from offering both.

Matthew 26:27-28 -

Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.