What Happens to the Communion Wine After Mass?
The question of what happens to the communion wine after a mass is a topic that often generates curiosity among both Catholics and non-Catholics.
Consecration and Disposal of Consecrated Wine
Consecrated wine used during mass serves a sacred purpose as the blood of Christ. After the celebration ends, the specifics of its disposal vary depending on the tradition and the specific situation. In some churches, the consecrated wine is poured through a small drain directly into the foundation of the church through a pipe, symbolizing its transformation into the blood of Christ. However, according to Catholic doctrine, any consecrated wine not used in the mass must be consumed. Thus, the remaining wine is either consumed by the priest or, in some cases, by the assisting ministers as well. This practice ensures that no consecrated substance remains unused.
Festus Consecrated Wine Disposal
A notable example of this practice can be found at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York, where after a mass, the remaining consecrated wine is poured back into the container it came from. Typically, this wine is just grape juice, as it is symbolic and not intended to be drunk. However, in special circumstances, such as the honor guard from the Knights of Columbus joining a mass, the priest may invite parishioners to partake of the remaining consecrated wine. This practice allows everyone to participate in the sacred act of consuming the host of Christ.
The Role of the Priest and the Communion Wine
After the mass, if any wine remains in the chalice (the cup used during the Eucharist), it is considered the Most Precious Blood of our Lord. The priest is responsible for the reverent consumption of the remaining wine, often with the assistance of the altar servers. This act of reverence ensures that the sacred substance is treated with the utmost respect and honor, fulfilling its intended sacred purpose.
Conclusion
The practice of disposing of communion wine after mass is rooted in tradition and respect for the sacred elements involved. Whether it is poured into the ground or consumed by the priest, the remaining wine is treated with the utmost reverence, reflecting the spiritual significance of the sacrament of the Eucharist.