Instructions on the Reception of the Precious Blood

On Sunday, September 15th, the Distribution of the Precious Blood will be reintroduced at masses in a phased roll-out, beginning at the 9am and 11am masses. As discussed in previous articles about the Precious Blood, one does not need to consume both species of the Blessed Sacrament (Body and Blood separately) in order to receive all of Christ; he is entirely present in either species. If, however, you wish to receive the Precious Blood, please follow the instructions below.

The Precious Blood will be distributed at two locations in the church: one for each half of the church split down the center aisle. If you are receiving the Precious Body from either the center aisle where the Priest is distributing Holy Communion or if you are receiving from the side aisle where a lay person Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is assisting with the distribution, you can receive the Precious Blood at a small table with a white tablecloth in between each of those aisles where an Extraordinary Minister will be standing and distributing the Precious Blood.

1. Approach this table and stand in front of it, not to the side of the table, so you are directly facing the Extraordinary Minister. If another person is already at the table, please form a line to each side of the table along the curve of the white stone Sanctuary floor, until it is your turn to receive the Precious Blood.
2. Once it is your turn to receive, and you are directly in the middle of the front of the table, the Extraordinary Minister will raise the chalice and say, “The Blood of Christ.” You in turn respond, “Amen.” After saying Amen, they will hand the chalice to you.
3. When being handed the chalice, please always hold it with two hands: one hand underneath it holding the base, and the other hand near the top rim. The Extraordinary Minister will be holding the chalice in the middle by the stem.
4. The Precious Blood contained within the chalice is Jesus himself, so we want to ensure not even the smallest droplet of His blood falls. Please be very careful when handling the chalice.
5. After taking hold of the chalice, take a small sip of the Precious Blood. This is not a “drink” from the chalice like you would take with a normal beverage. This is just a ritual sip, enough just to taste.
6. After taking a sip, carefully hand the chalice back, ensuring you do not let go until the Extraordinary Minister has taken hold of the chalice.
7. Then, turn around 180 degrees and walk back to your pew via the aisle directly in line with the chalice table.