Dear Dona,

Thanks for the question.

Let's talk about what you are required to do before any extras. If you are a Catholic you must go to Mass weekly (Sunday obligation), Holy Days of obligation, and confess mortal sins before receiving Communion. So, yes, you need to get to Confession before receiving Jesus in the Eucharist.

Going to Mass on other days , like daily Mass, is good, but optional. It is worth doing when you can because, by doing so, you can grow in faith and holiness. Ultimately, to love someone you have to make the effort to spend time with them, and so it is with God. Spend time with Him in order for your love to grow.

Lastly, the Christian life is one that involves discipline. We learn to do things in spite of our feelings. Don't rely on when you simply feel like going but decide on a commitment that is reasonable to follow. Make that your habit, and then if you "feel" like doing more do those extra things as a sacrifice that you offer especially for others who are suffering. You can motivate yourself more when you find purpose beyond just your own wants and needs.

God will see your good will and reward not only those you ask for His help, but yourself as well.

Peace,

Bob Kirby

Dear Dona,

I just wanted to add a bit to Bob's fine answer.

You can always search our database by going here:

• AskACatholic Database Search

I searched our knowledge base and found these web postings which should help.
From our database:

• What should I do if I am having a rough time with scrupulosity and blasphemous thoughts?
• Did I commit a sin if I had an impure thought and physically bad feeling after Holy Communion?
• Have I committed a mortal sin by watching Mass online instead of attending Mass in person?

I hope this helps,

Mike