German bishops say they have voted “overwhelmingly” in favour of a guide that tells Protestant spouses they may receive Communion under certain conditions. The bishops agreed that a Protestant spouse of a Catholic may receive Holy Communion after making a “serious examination of conscience” with a priest or other person with pastoral responsibilities. They must also “affirm the faith of the Catholic Church”, and wish to end “serious spiritual distress” and a “longing to satisfy hunger for the Eucharist”. Cardinal Reinhard Marx said there had been an “intense debate” on the subject, during which “serious concerns” had been raised. However, he added that the bishops had not given general approval, and that the guide referred to specific situations. “We don’t want to change any doctrine,” he said. According to Canon Law: