My pastor has, from the pulpit, told us that the proper way to receive Communion is standing and certainly not genuflecting or kneeling. I know the USCCB has stated that we cannot be refused, but can you provide me with some canon law to back up my wishes? I have been genuflecting before reception. No priest or bishop has refused me Communion, but I need help in informing my pastor of my rights according to canon law.

Therese--

Why do you need to inform the pastor of your rights? You have not been refused Communion; the pastor has merely informed the congregation of his understanding of the proper reception of Communion. He is not entirely correct in his presentation, but so long as he does not deny you Communion, there is no need for you to make an issue of your rights. Just go ahead and genuflect before receiving Communion if that is what you prefer.

Unfortunately, we live in a society today in which a great many people are overly-concerned about their rights, to the extent of preemptively defending their rights even when they have not been personally harmed in any way. Rather than focus on "rights," it might be better to focus instead on one's Christian responsibilities, such as the responsibilities to honor one's father in Christ, to love one's neighbor as oneself, and to bear wrongs patiently.

Michelle Arnold
Catholic Answers

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