3. Where are we to receive Easter Communion?
Conformably to a precept of the Church, we are to receive it in the parish church, or at least notify our pastor if we receive it elsewhere.
4. At what age are we obliged to go to Confession and Communion?
Decrees of Popes and laws of the Church make it clear that at the age of reason, which is about seven years, all are bound by the precept of Easter Communion. The parents, as well as the confessor and pastor, are obliged to see that children make their first communion in time to fulfill this duty.
In a decree dated August, 1910, the Sacred Congregation of the Sacraments declares that the obligation of satisfying the precepts of both communion and confession begins when the child commences to reason, which, the decree says, is at the age of seven or thereabouts.
5. Why has the Church commanded that the Blessed Sacrament should be received during Easter-time?
1. Because Jesus Christ instituted the Holy Eucharist within this time; and 2. Because within this time He died, and rose again from the dead, and, therefore, we also should die to sin and lead a new life.
6. Ought we to think it sufficient to receive Holy Communion once in the year?
No; it is the intention and most earnest desire of Holy Mother Church that we should frequently, and even daily, partake of this august Sacrament.
The Church does not bind us under pain of sin to go oftener than once a year at Easter-time, but her laws manifest her fervent wishes for daily Communion among all the faithful irrespective of age or sex.
7. Why, then, does the Church not command us to communicate oftener?
1. Because the love of God and the care for our souls should alone be sufficient motives to induce us to do so; and 2. Because the Church wishes to prescribe, under