This is the opinion of a priest with a Doctorate in Catholic Canon Law, at this very highly respected Catholic website, describing how superior the Catholic Mass is to any other denomination's "Communion Service."
http://www.ewtn.com/v/experts/showmessage.asp?number=479541Question:
"Hello, What is the difference between a communion service and mass?
At both times we receive communion, hear the Word of God read, listen to a lecture, and share fellowship with other believers.
The most important thing to do is receive Christ and we do at both times.
I don't see a difference can you help?
Thanks,
Jim"
Answer by Rev. Mark J. Gantley, JCL (Juris Canonici Licentia) Doctorate in Canon Law, on 9/7/2006:
Quote:
"I am always shocked at the number of people who do not appreciate the different between the celebration of the Most Holy Eucharist at Mass and the Communion apart from Mass. You seem to be unaware of the spiritual realities that are present at the celebration of Mass.
"When at Mass, we offer our very lives up to God through the offering up of the bread and wine, which are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. When the transformation of the bread and wine take place, it is like being present at the Incarnation, when Jesus first took flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. At Mass, we also remember the death of the Lord Jesus, and this remembrance is no mere recalling in one's mind, but rather it is like being present at the foot of the cross as Jesus died, and like being a personal witness to the resurrection on the third day.
"All of this only takes place at a Mass, and it takes place during the Eucharistic Prayer prayed by the priest, who acts as an intermediary between us and God.
"None of that happens at a Communion service. It is arriving at a movie at the end when the credits are already rolling.
"Some people don't like this comparison, as I have used it before, but I think that it is sound. Receiving Holy Communion at Mass is like eating a piece of birthday cake at a birthday party. One is not only eating the cake but enjoying the event of the party -- exchanging gifts, lighting the candles, being with the others, sharing in the celebration. (Of course, at Mass, we exchange gifts with God, are gathered in prayer with all of his holy people, including the saints and also the angels, and share in being present at the mysteries of our faith, described above.
"Receiving Holy Communion at a Communion service is like eating a left over piece of birthday card after having been unable to attend the party. Sure, we get a piece of cake, but we missed the rest.
"Of course, there is a power and efficacy in hearing the word of God preached by a priest that does not occur when listening to a non-ordained person conducting a Communion service. (Thus, it is better if at least a deacon is conducting the Communion service because at least a valid homily could be given.)"
(C) 2018