The question of whether a Catholic who has been divorced is eligible to receive the Eucharist is a complex issue within Catholic doctrine. Church teaching holds that marriage is a sacrament that establishes a lifelong bond. Therefore, a valid sacramental marriage is considered indissoluble. If a divorced person remarries civilly without an annulment (a declaration by the Church that the initial marriage was invalid from the beginning), that person is considered to be in a state of objective adultery, according to Church teachings. This state traditionally bars them from receiving Holy Communion.
The importance of this matter stems from the Church’s understanding of the Eucharist as the source and summit of the Christian life, signifying complete union with Christ and the Church. Receiving Communion implies being in full communion with Church teachings and living in accordance with them. Historically, the Church has maintained a consistent stance on the indissolubility of marriage, reflecting its understanding of Jesus’ teachings on the matter. This position underscores the seriousness with which the Church views the sacrament of marriage and the commitment it entails. The practice safeguards the sanctity of marriage within the Catholic community.
