In Paragraphs 81 and 82 of REDEMPTOR HOMINIS by Pope John Paul II, the Pope sees the importance of receiving the Eucharist in a state of grace, by saying that when one is not pure, "...partaking of the Eucharist would lack its full redeeming effectiveness...". 

To understand more about the importance of receiving the Eucharist in a state of grace, read the following:

• Paragraphs 36-37 of ECCLESIA DE EUCHARISTIA by Pope John Paul II
• 1 Cor 11:27-32
• CCC 1385
• The Eucharist and Penance by Alfredo Marranzini
• Happy Are Those Who Are Called to His Supper: On Preparing to Receive Christ Worthily in the Eucharist by the USCCB

To help us receive the full redeeming effectiveness of the Eucharist, we need to become more pure by frequenting the Sacrament of Penance regularly. For information about the Sacrament of Penance, and to learn how to make a good confession, check out the following:

• Church of Our Saviour, NYC (Fr. Rutler's web site)
• Sacrament of Penance: Examination of Conscience by Father John Trigilio

• Why Go to Confession? (Part 1) by Archbishop Bruno Forte 

• Why Go to Confession? (Part 2)

• Why Go to Confession? (Part 3)

• Why Go to Confession? (Part 4)

• For an Examination of Conscience by Archbishop Bruno Forte

• THE SACRAMENT OF PENANCE AND RECONCILIATION (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1422-1498)

• Be Prepared (Confession) by Father Miguel, MFVA

• The Most Difficult Sacrament

• On Reconciliation and Penance by Pope John Paul II

• Pastoral Letter: God's Mercy and the Sacrament of Penance by Archbishop Wuerl

• Confession: A School of Mercy

• Go In Peace

• Penance (Reconciliation, Confession)