Question:
A question about taking communion postop

My husband is having lap RNY a week from tomorrow (yippee!!!). Anyway, our minister said something about visiting him in the hosp after surgery. I dont know if he is going to offer communion or not. Just thought about that. Thanks!    — Dave.T (posted on July 27, 2008)

July 27, 2008
It can wait. Bread is really sticky and hurts early out, gets stuck etc. We aren't supposed to take alcohol but a little won't hurt later. I didn't take communion until I was four weeks out. I still had a little trouble with the bread. Just my thoughts. Laura
   — waterlover

July 27, 2008
Tell your husband congratulations on his journey for the both of you. I do not recommend taking communion in the hospital. Even if he did feel like it (probably not), he will be on sips of clear liquids/ice chips and shouldn't push it. I would suggest speaking with your minister in advance and possibly being blessed before surgery, and making him aware of the dietary restrictions ahead of time so there is no confusion. Just my thoughts, Dawn Vickers, RN, BLC, CLC
   — DawnVic

July 27, 2008
I have been hospitalized many times over the years for different surgical procedures and my minster has visited me each time. I was never offered communion post op. But to be on the safe side I would speak (or have your husband) speak to your minister ahead before his surgery. Your minister is probably going to visit to wish him well and to say a prayer for recovery with him. Congratulations and God Bless to you husband for a speedy recovery.
   — NanaJane

July 27, 2008
We have lived this situation. My husband is a pastor and was told that the patient could not have communion elements. It was not an issue at all. The prayers are what are appreciated, the visit, the communion elements can wait until your husband is much further out
   — usfour

July 27, 2008
OFTEN A Pastor will visit a patient before surgery for a word of prayer which is comforting to the family. I don't often see more than that with a s basic surgical procedure. It is nicer than having the hospital Chaplin coming through to about the same, as this is someone that you know. If he is recomending communion, I would simpley request it be held until he could drink and eat, as the timing is bad for either of those with RNY surgery.
   — William (Bill) wmil

July 27, 2008
I'm one month post op and on my last day in the hospital, I too was visited by the chaplain and offered communion. I politely refused as it is a solid & I wasn't about to tempt fate. Instead of communion, we said an extra prayer & with tears in my eyes, happy tears, I gave him a hug & thanked him for making time to visit me. Trust me, he'll have plenty of time for Sunday communion down the road... AND I'm pretty sure God understands his 'refusal' while still in the hospital. =) GOOD LUCK! -Amy
   — mom4ruby

July 27, 2008
This is Dave's wife. I was the one that actually posted the question. Thanks for all of the replies. I had RNY 5 years ago in January. I dont think I was offered communion after my RNY, but I was after my tummy tuck. I didnt think it would be a good idea taking communion either, but I thought Id post the question anyway. Anyway thanks a lot!
   — Dave.T

July 27, 2008
Hi, You can take a fragment of the host it will still be valid as long as some else (your wife) consumes the rest . The hosts are usually dissolvable and the size that you will eat could be a crumb or less. Courage God is always with you.
   — bootsy30