When You Miss One Holy Communion

As the National Eucharistic Revival enters its final year, it’s fitting to reflect on a passage from the Autumn 1957 edition of the Marian Helpers Bulletin, titled "When You Miss One Holy Communion."

"It is well occasionally to consider what you lose every morning that you pass up Holy Communion," readers were advised. A list followed:

1. You miss a personal visit with Jesus, the author of all spiritual energy and holiness.
2. You lose a special increase of sanctifying grace, which makes your soul more pleasing to God.
3. You lose a portion of sacramental grace, which grants special help in times of temptation and in fulfilling your daily duties.
4. You miss a precious opportunity for the remission of your venial sins.
5. You lose the special preserving influence that each Holy Communion confers against the fires of passion.
6. You miss the opportunity for the remission of part or all of the temporal punishment due to your sins.
7. You lose the spiritual joy, sweetness, and comfort that come from a fervent Holy Communion.
8. You miss the greater degree of glory your body might enjoy at its resurrection on the Last Day.
9. You lose a portion of the glory you would possess in Heaven for all eternity.
10. You may lose:

• a) Complete victory over a particular fault or passion.
• b) A special grace long prayed for.
• c) The conversion or salvation of a soul.
• d) The deliverance of a relative or friend from Purgatory.
• e) Many graces for others, both living and deceased.

The article concluded: "Will a few extra minutes of sleep repay you for all these losses?"

Marian Helper Magazine – Spring 2025