Bishops prepare to endorse documents.

Washington, D.C. -- During their annual meeting in Baltimore, November 13 to 16, the U.S. bishops will vote on a statement designed to help Catholics properly prepare to receive Holy Communion. The statement reiterates Church teaching that with "few exceptions, only those who are members of the Catholic Church may receive Holy Communion at a Catholic Eucharist."

Catholics should refrain from Communion, according to the statement, when they lack adherence to what the Church authoritatively teaches on matters of faith and morals or when a person is publicly known to have committed serious sin (LSN, Oct. 20, 2006).

A second document is slated to address marital love and the gift of life. It talks about the "false" note that contraception introduces to marriage. It will be issued as a brochure and will be in Question and Answer form.

A third proposal will define the Church's attitude to homosexuality. It explains the Church's teaching that homosexual acts are sinful and morally wrong; it repeats its opposition to "same-sex marriage;" and it emphasizes that "the Church has the right to deny roles of service to those who violate her teaching."

On the other hand, "scorn or hatred" of homosexual persons is condemned; and their participation in Church services is encouraged on condition that they strive for a life of chastity.

The report will also censure adoption of children by homosexual couples and question the legitimacy of baptizing such children in the Catholic faith.