_Rubrical Query_ (Vol. vi., p. 509.).--QUÆSTOR inquires the meaning of the
words "if occasion lie" in the Rubric immediately before the Offertory in
the Communion Service. I am under the impression that "if occasion lie"
here simply means, _in case there is necessity to do so_; and for the
origin of this parenthetical clause I would refer to the Rubric of 1549
(Keeling, _Lit. Br._, edit. of 1842, p. 178.), which provides:
"That in cathedral churches, or places where there is daily communion,
it shall be sufficient to read this exhortation once in a month, and in
parish churches on the week days it may be left unsaid."
Showing clearly the mode in which the exhortation was intended to be used.
The real difficulty, however, is not noticed by your querist, which is, as
to when "Public warning of the Communion" is to be given. One Rubric says
that this notice is to be given "immediately after the Nicene Creed;"
another prescribes that when this warning is to be given, it shall be done
"immediately after sermon." On this point see Sharpe on _Rubrics_, p. 62.;
and Wheatly on _Common Prayer_, chap. vi. sect. viii. § 3.