USCCB's 30 Questions on Redemptionis Sacramentum

First of all, the number 30 threw me a bit, particularly having just passed through the season of Lent and the Passion of our Lord.

Something which stood out in the very beginning of the instruction was the discussion of obedience - clarifying material and formal obedience:

"The observance of the norms published by the authority of the Church requires conformity of thought and of word, of external action and of the application of the heart. A merely external observation of norms would obviously be contrary to the nature of the Sacred Liturgy"... For this reason, external action must be illuminated by faith and charity, which unite us with Christ and with one another and engender love for the poor and the abandoned. The liturgical words and rites, moreover, are a faithful expression, matured over the centuries, of the understanding of Christ, and they teach us to think as he himself does;[13] by conforming our minds to these words, we raise our hearts to the Lord. (#5)

Anyway a couple of quotes:

10. The document states “sacred ministers may not deny the sacraments to those who seek them in a reasonable manner, are rightly disposed, and are not prohibited by law from receiving them.” Does this mean that politicians who hold positions antithetical to the church cannot be denied communion if they approach the altar?

Such matters are decided by the Diocesan Bishop in conformity with Canon Law and other documents of the Holy See.

24. What procedure is to be followed when more than one chalice is needed for the distribution of Holy Communion under both kinds?

When more than one chalice is needed for the distribution of Holy Communion under both kinds, several smaller chalices may be placed on the altar at the preparation of the gifts. The instruction prohibits the use of “flagons” or other such vessels from which the precious Blood is poured. While the use of flagons is a widespread practice in the United States, the instruction directs that they no longer be used in order to reduce the risk of spilling of the Precious Blood.

This is really widespread here. I have seen drops of the Precious Blood splash on the altar from inattentive or accidental pouring into other wine "glasses". This will, hopefully stop some from permitting lay people from participating in the 'Fractio Panis' as well.

28. Is it acceptable to genuflect before receiving Communion?

The Roman Missal directs that Bishops are to choose a sign of veneration for the faithful when they receive Holy Communion standing. While the sign of veneration chosen by the Bishops of the United States is a simple bow of head, no person should ever be denied Holy Communion because they have made a different gesture.

Who answers these questions? Actually, that is not correct. One should ask, "Who responds to the question", since the question was not answered. A simple Yes or No would certainly suffice as an answer.

LInk Here