(RNS) — After Bishop Michael Martin of the Diocese of Charlotte issued a pastoral letter outlining that Catholics are expected to stand during the reception of Holy Communion in the diocese — and ...

“What does it mean to receive Jesus in Holy Communion? It’s like Jesus is giving us a big hug, saying, ‘I love you so much. I want you to be close to me always,’” says Russell Pollitt, S.J., pastor of ...

The edict from Charlotte’s Catholic bishop came just before Christmas with a benign title: “Pastoral letter on norms for Holy Communion.” Bishop Michael Martin decreed parishioners could no longer use ...

After Bishop Michael Martin of the Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina, issued a pastoral letter outlining that Catholics are expected to stand during the reception of Communion in the diocese — and ...