Prepare Spiritually

     ♦ Be engaged in what is going on at Mass - offer yourself along with Jesus Christ to the Father.
     ♦ First receive the sacrament of Reconciliation, if you are aware of serious sin.
     ♦ Ask the Lord to come into you in Communion.
     ♦ Fast for one hour before receiving Communion.

Approach the Altar

     ♦ Generally, just follow the line.
     ♦ You may receive under both "species", although it is not required.  If you are, approach the Host first, and then the
        Precious Blood.  (Christ is entirely present in either species).
     ♦ As you approach the priest or extraordinary minister, bow your head as a sign of adoration, then either extend your
        tongue to receive on the tongue, or create a "throne" with your hands, usually left hand in right hand.  The priest will say,
        "The Body of Christ."  your response is "Amen."  then take the Host with your right hand (unless you are receiving on
        the tongue), and place it in your mouth.
     ♦ Do not reach out to take the Host; wait until it is placed in your hand or on your tongue.
     ♦ As you approach the Precious Blood, again bow your head.  The deacon or extraordinary minister will say, "The Blood
        of Christ."  Respond "Amen", and take the chalice with both hands and take a sip of the Precious Blood.
     ♦ Please do not say "Thank you," or anything similar, when receiving.  Simply say "Amen", which means, "so be it,"
        another way of professing faith in the Eucharist.

After Communion

     ♦ Return to your pew.
     ♦ Kneel and say a prayer of thanksgiving to the Father for the gift of Christ's Body and Blood.