Communion on the Tongue: A Historical Journey
The practice of receiving communion on the tongue, a common ritual in many Christian denominations today, has a rich historical background. This article explores the origins and evolution of this practice, delving into the early Church's liturgical norms and the influences that shaped them.
Early Church Practices: A Mixed Landscape
The early Church did not have a uniform practice regarding the manner of receiving communion. Some of the earliest records suggest that both species (the bread and the wine) were received on the tongue, while others indicate that the laity received only the bread, and the clergy administered the chalice. This diversity reflects the varied cultural and liturgical practices of the early Christian communities.
St. Augustine's Influence
One of the earliest advocates for receiving communion on the tongue was St. Augustine of Hippo. In his work "On the Morals of the Catholic Church," he wrote about the practice, stating that it was the norm in his time. Augustine's influence was significant, and his teachings helped to establish the practice in many Western churches.
The Middle Ages: Standardization and Enclosure
During the Middle Ages, the practice of receiving communion on the tongue became more widespread and standardized. The Fourth Council of the Lateran in 1215 mandated that all Christians receive communion at least once a year, contributing to this standardization. Around this time, the practice of communion under both kinds (both the bread and the wine) began to decline, with the laity primarily receiving the bread, often placed on their tongues.
The Role of the Council of Trent
The Council of Trent, convened in the 16th century in response to the Protestant Reformation, further solidified the practice of receiving communion on the tongue. In its decrees on the liturgy, the council emphasized the importance of receiving communion in a reverent manner, which often meant receiving it on the tongue from a priest.
The 20th Century: Liturgical Renewal and Diversity
The 20th century saw significant liturgical renewal, including changes in the manner of receiving communion. The Second Vatican Council's Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, allowed for more flexibility in the manner of receiving communion, including the option of receiving in the hand. However, communion on the tongue remained the norm in many churches.
Contemporary Practices and Debates
Today, the practice of receiving communion on the tongue continues in many Christian denominations, although the option of receiving in the hand is also widely accepted. The debate surrounding the manner of receiving communion often reflects differing views on liturgical norms, reverence, and the role of the laity in the liturgy. Despite these debates, the practice of communion on the tongue remains a significant aspect of Christian liturgical tradition.
In the table below, we summarize the historical evolution of communion on the tongue:
| Period | Practice |
|---|---|
| Early Church | Mixed practices; some received both species on the tongue, others only the bread |
| Middle Ages | Widespread practice of receiving communion on the tongue, primarily the bread |
| 20th Century | Option of receiving in the hand allowed, but communion on the tongue remained common |
