Q: I just received my copy of Holy Communion and Worship of the Eucharistic Mystery Outside Mass, the 2024 edition.
Throughout the book, the proper words are specified, depending on whether the minister is a priest, deacon, or lay minister.
What surprised me is that the general absolution, “May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and lead us to everlasting life,” is said by whoever is leading the service. It was my understanding that these words of absolution can be said by a priest only, and I have always omitted them when bringing Holy Communion to a sick person or presiding at a Communion Service. Have I been wrong about this?
Thank you! I enjoy reading your blog posts!
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A: The deacon or layperson who leads the service includes the absolution. That has been the case throughout the history of this rite.
Here are some previous posts: https://paulturner.org/communion-service-3/ https://paulturner.org/confiteor-at-night-prayer/