Question & Answer

                             Can I receive Communion if I am returning to the Church after many years?

                             Welcome back!  There is a step to take before you can be in full communion with Christ.  In order to be properly disposed for the Eucharist, "A Catholic must be in a state of grace to receive Holy Communion, and anyone aware of being in a state of mortal sin must first receive absolution in the Sacrament of Penance" (CCC, section 1415).
                             When you were away from the Church, you may have missed Sunday Mass, for example.  That is considered a mortal sin for a baptized Catholic and requires seeking God's forgiveness through the Sacrament of Penance.
                              You may feel anxious or nervous about going to Confession after a long absence from the Church.  Please remember that the primary purpose of this Sacrament is to reconcile us to Christ who waits patiently for us when we have turned from him.  Remember also, that one of a priest's great joys is being able to convey God's forgiveness to those sincerely seeking it.  He will be happy to guide you through it.