Vatican's Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and Sacraments Speaks on Issue of Withholding Communion

July 23, 2009 - Cardinal Antonio Canizares Llovera, the head of the Vatican's liturgical office, stated that the principle of charity (love) in truth is what guides the decision to withhold communion to unrepentant pro-abortion polititians. He mentioned that it is done in consideration for their eternal salvation, and not for punishment as is often mis-reported.

Such individuals are in a very grave state of sin, and giving them the Blessed Sacrament only compounds their problems. Such a situation also raises significant issues for the one who gives them communion if they have full knowledge of their state of MANIFEST GRAVE SIN. Not only does such an action fail to guard the sanctity of the sacred species, but it also is a direct act of aiding and abetting one to engage in further sin to their eternal detriment.

In addition, is causes real and very serious scandal among the faithful. If they see a known and outwardly pro-abortion politician being given the Eucharist, it can lead one to question whether the Church truly believes it is the REAL PRESENCE of Christ. Would a representative of the Church give the REAL BODY, BLOOD, SOUL, and DIVINITY of Christ to someone who they know is not properly disposed to receive Him? Since they did so, "it must not really be Christ, but merely a symbol." The Bishops MUST protect not only the Blessed sacrament itself, but also the faithful who are trying their very best to follow what the Church teaches about the Real Presence. Instead, too often many Bishops spend all of their energy protecting the pro-abortion politician! What's wrong with this picture?

I found it particularly interesting that Cardinal Canizares pointed to the document produced by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 2004 when Cardinal Ratzinger was Prefect. That document stated clearly that pro-abortion Catholic politicians "must be refused" Holy Communion if they attempt to receive at Mass.

Why is that clear mandate not followed by ALL of our Bishops? Why is this not a "no-brainer?" And so many wonder why is there so much confusion among the faithful today about our Church and her teachings!!!