I hope this doesn't sound like a stupid question, but I have a concern about receiving Holy Communion. I am an Eucharistic Minister at my church and my fear is that while standing up on the alter after receiving the host and taking a very small sip of the wine, I start to throw up. Can someone share their experiences with me? Thanks.

Was raised Episcopalian so this may not apply, but can't you dip the communion wafer into the wine and take communion that way? or be blessed by the priest similar to children who are too young to take communion.

Sounds like a simple solution... Just try it first, before you go to church

I was raised Catholic. I say fake-sip the wine for now. Just keep your lips shut against the chalice--no one will be the wiser. Let the host stick to the roof of your mouth and soften, then slowly get the bits down. I think you'll be fine!

I grew up Catholic, but find myself to be more of a free spirited /Baptist person now.

Anywho, please don't be offended with what I am going to say, I mean well in every which way. But being that I am 16 days post op and have had my struggles....your taste buds may change to the point that the smell or taste of something will make you sick to your stomach. Wine? when your stomach is still swollen, raw and healing? I don't know about that, sounds dangerous.

I love God in every way and have complete trust and faith in him. I want to say that, due to your surgery, maybe you should skip the communion wafer /wine action for a few weeks and still attend church. I am sure in no way will God frown upon you. After all, you are looking out for your health to continue to serve him in this world.

xoxo

Edited January 27, 201511 yr by Pac-woman

I had no problems. I don't do the wine, but I would do the fake on that. The host melts very nicely. If you are still nervous slip a handkerchief into a pocket.

I agree with RedSalamader.

I had no problem with either the host or the tiny sip of wine. You might wait a few weeks after surgery, but after that you'll be fine.

Someone from the church came to my hospital room the day after surgery. We said a prayer together and then proceeded to communion. Without thinking about it, I put the wafer in my mouth and swallowed it. It wasn't until they left that I realized what I had done. I rang for the nurse and she said that I should be fine. I was.

Simple solution. Convert.

Just kidding. Good luck.

Many thanks to all for your suggestions. They really helped.

If you are concerned, just have the priest bless you in the communion line for a few weeks. My husband did this while in RCIA so he didn't feel weird sitting in the pew by himself.

I agree with @@stephh above. And, it will not be long before participating in the Eucharist fully will be fine. (A few weeks.) However, @@donnag53, you mentioned that you are a Eucharistic Minister. You may need to alert your Eucharistic Ministry organizer that you will not be able to consume any leftover Blood or Christ or Eucharist until you are further in your recovery so that another Minister can aid you. Good luck.

I felt the same way. Today I had the host for the first time post op and I am starting my third week out and purée phase. It was fine. During the liquid stage I just went up and got a blessing. Hope this helps

Elizabeth21 - Thank you for your comments. Since I usually serve with my husband, he will consume any extra wine. I guess I just won't serve for the first three weeks after surgery and than see how it goes.