Question
It has been at least 15 years since I have been to confession and do not receive communion when we go to church. I was always taught that you must go to confession before receiving communion. I was told by one of our fellow parishioners that confession was not mandatory to receive communion.
--Good example in Nebraska
Answer
Only if a person is in grave (mortal) sin must they go to confession before receiving communion (Canon 916- and only if there is a priest available to hear one's confession). Venial sins are forgiven through the celebration of the Eucharist, which is a sacrament of reconciliation. However, it is also recommended that one make a regular practice going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation/Penance, either Rite 1 (Individual Confession) or Rite 2 (Communal Celebration with Individual Confession).