Preparation for receiving Holy Communion.
The Orthodox Church does not practice open Communion; therefore those individuals wishing to receive must be Orthodox Christians. Those parish members who desire to receive the Holy Mysteries (Holy Communion) should prepare themselves through proper prayer, fasting, and confession. Proper prayer includes reading or listening to the Prayers before Holy Communion and attendance at the Vespers service the evening before the Divine Liturgy. As this last requirement is difficult for those who live away from the local area, they should spend the evening before Divine Liturgy quietly and prayerfully by reading the Epistle and Gospels reading proscribed for the next day and other spiritual reading. They should avoid worldly entertainment such as television and movies, etc. Fasting from food and drink after midnight on the morning of the Divine Liturgy is required. This also includes use of tobacco or other habit-forming addictions.
Arrangements for confession should be made with the priest.
Orthodox visitors who also wish to receive the Holy Mysteries are also subject to the above requirements. Visitors must, however, also contact the priest or deacon prior to approaching the Communion Cup.
Exceptions to the above standards must be discussed beforehand with the priest.