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Barbara,
Thanks for your question.
This sort of pastoral question would be best addressed by June to her priest.
We are not priests, rather we are apologists. We help people defend the faith (and/or) assist people (who are outside the Catholic Church) to understand Her doctrines and practices. So, we deal with general teachings, not specific pastoral issues. We can only give you general advice.
As a general rule, unless we commit sins that have grave matter, we are free to receive Communion.
I distinguish between grave matter and mortal sin.
For a sin to be mortal:
- it must be grave matter
- it must be done with full knowledge, sufficient time to reflect on the actions prior to taking it, and
- done with full consent of the will.
The Church tells us that if we are aware that we've committed sin that constitutes grave matter, we need to go to Confession before receiving Communion.
So, if June is home bound, we must assume someone is bringing her Communion. But it's been (1 year and a month) since her last Confession. That’s a significantly long time. It would be ideal if she could arrange for her parish priest to visit her so she can go to Confession and in addition receive the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick.
Priests have busy schedules, especially since, in many cases, priests are now responsible for more than one parish in town. But it should be possible to schedule a visit from a priest.
In the meantime, all things being as you described, she can continue to receive Communion. She should examine her conscience daily and ask for God to forgive her of any sin of commission or omission.
Under His Mercy,
John DiMascio |