8.2.18 The prerequisites for partaking in Holy Communion

The fundamental prerequisites for partaking worthily of Holy Communion are belief and a repentant heart filled with longing for salvation. Although unbelief does not render the sacrament invalid, faith is the prerequisite for it to serve for blessing and salvation. Unbelief in receiving the sacrament can be related to the words in 1 Corinthians 11: 29: "For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgement to himself, not discerning the Lord's body."

Those who are indifferent to the suffering and death of Christ or who merely make a habit of the celebration of the sacrament, and partake of Holy Communion in this manner, run the risk of doing so unworthily.