From the very beginning the Church has taken a strong view of the Holy Eucharist. Jesus was not speaking metaphorically when he repeatedly emphasized that "my Body is true food and my Blood is true drink", and hence the Church has reserved the reception of Holy Communion to Christians who believe in the Real Presence. This is an act of charity, since in his first letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul cautions his followers that "anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgement on himself." Moreover, since "Communion" implies not only union with Christ in the Blessed Sacrament but also union with His Mystical Body the Church, it is reserved to Christians who are in union with the Church that Jesus founded, and with all of the Church's teachings. Not even all Catholics can necessarily receive Holy Communion, however, but only those who have gone to Confession if they are conscious of any serious sin.
- Catechism on the Eucharist
- Catholic.com: Who can Receive Communion?
