For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. (2 Peter 2:20).
After receiving Holy Communion, one should manifest correction, displaying gratitude, love for God and neighbour, and a diligent effort to lead a new, holy, and inculpable life.
Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk (1724–1783)
After partaking of Holy Communion, one must beseech the Lord to preserve this precious gift worthily, and to grant us the strength to resist falling back into our former sins.
On the day of receiving the Eucharist, refrain from rinsing your mouth or spitting for the remainder of that day.
Venerable Ambrose of Optina (1812–1891)
Always remember that after attending Liturgy and receiving Communion, you should dine slowly and moderately. The same applies to your evening meal.
Saint Righteous John of Kronstadt (1829–1908)
Whenever the Lord deems you worthy to partake in the sacred and life-giving Mysteries of Christ, reflect in this manner: Today, I am blessed with great fortune, for the Lord has entered the dwelling of my heart, despite my sin and impurity. What divine grace has been shown to me, what joy I experience, for this day I am not alone—Christ Himself, my Lord and Saviour, abides within me.
Holy Martyr Arseny (Zhadanovsky), Bishop of Serpukhov (1874–1937)
Often, after fervent prayer, demons assail us with great might, as if seeking to exact revenge. Moreover, even after receiving Holy Communion, they strive with utmost ferocity to instil impure thoughts and desires within us. Their aim is to punish us for our resistance and victory over them, and to diminish our faith by insinuating that Holy Communion avails us nothing, and that, on the contrary, our spiritual struggles are worsened. Yet, we must not despair; understanding the enemy’s deceitfulness, we must conquer him through steadfast faith and perseverance in our spiritual warfare.
Hieromartyr Seraphim (Zvezdinsky), Bishop of Dmitrov (1883–c. 1937)
From this moment on, every sin we commit becomes an affront to our Lord; every immoral act is a direct insult to our Sweetest Redeemer. Every misuse of our bodies mirrors the spitting, the slapping, and the beating He endured at the hands of His enemies. We are no longer alone; the Lord is with us and within us. Therefore, we must not shy away from good deeds and the labours of piety.
Above all, those who partake of the Holy Mysteries must strive to be gracious and magnanimous in all the circumstances of life.
Archpriest Valentin Amfiteatrov (1836–1908)
Some observe that if a communicant goes to sleep soon after receiving the Eucharist, especially after a hearty meal, they no longer feel the Divine blessing upon waking. For them, the celebration seems to have already ended. This is understandable: Devotion to rest reflects inattentiveness to the Heavenly Guest, the Lord and Master of the World; and grace departs from the careless participant of the Royal banquet. Instead, spend this time in reading, contemplating, or taking a mindful walk. I saw this among monks. In secular life, one might visit the sick, lend a helping hand to those in need, enjoy pious fellowship with brothers, or pay respects to the graves of the departed.
Metropolitan Veniamin (Fedchenkov) (1880–1961)
To better protect ourselves from falling back into sin after confession, let us strive, especially in the early stages when our moral resolve is still fragile, to avoid encounters with temptation. Steer clear of individuals and places that might lead us astray.
Archimandrite Kirill (Pavlov) (1919–2017)
Those who seek comfort in Communion often find themselves cold and indifferent. But those who deem themselves unworthy are the ones who find grace.
Saint Ambrose of Optina (1812–1891)
When you don’t feel peace and joy after receiving the Holy Sacraments, consider it a test of your faith. Or better yet, see it as an opportunity for deep humility and heartfelt repentance for your sins. You lack humility, which is why you’re quick to blame God instead of taking responsibility yourself.
Saint John of Kronstadt (1829–1908)
If we cannot reap the fruits after Holy Communion, we must repent, humble ourselves, and consider ourselves unworthy of such blessings. Perhaps you partook unworthily? Were you distracted during the service? Distractions can come not only from impure thoughts but from any irrelevant musings. However, do not despair or grieve over the lack of fruits from Holy Communion. Otherwise, it becomes some superficial symbol for us. Such an attitude towards the Sacrament would be self-serving.
Saint Alexis of Zosima (1844–1928)
