Te of sanctifying
grace, to have a right intention, and to obey the laws of fasting.
(See Q. 257.) 255. Q. Does he who receives Communion in mortal
sin receive the body and blood of Christ?
A. He who receives Communion in mortal sin receives the body and blood
of Christ, but does not receive His grace, and he commits a great
sacrilege. 256. Q. Is it enough to be free from mortal sin to receive
plentifully the graces of Holy
Communion? A. To receive plentifully
the graces of Holy Communion it is not enough to be free from
mortal sin, but we should be free
from all
affection to venial sin, and should make acts of faith, hope,
and love. 257. Q. What is the fast necessary for Holy Communion? A.
The fast necessary for Holy
Communion is to abstain from all food, beverages, and alcoholic drinks
for one
hour before Holy Communion. Water may be taken at any time. The sick
may take food, non-alcoholic drinks,
and any medicine up to Communion time. [This answer has been changed
in the 1977 printing to bring
it up to date with the current rules.] 258. Q. Is
any one ever allowed to receive Holy Communion when not fasting? A.
Any one in danger of death is allowed to receive Holy Communion when
not fasting or when it is
necessary to save the Blessed Sacrament from insult or injury.
259. Q. When are we
bound to receive Holy Communion? A. We are bound t
