Q1: I am a theology teacher at a Catholic diocesan high school. I have non-Catholic students that are wanting to join the Church. My initial thought is that these students need to join a local parish and ask the pastor to begin [catechetical instruction for this purpose]. Yet, I know that the quality of catechesis that these parishes offer is not ideal.
Instead, I would like to offer these students the opportunity to attend specific classes at school and do only those things that are necessary at a local parish. Is this permissible? If not, is there anything that a Catholic school can do to help non-Catholic students initiate the process of joining the Church? – Daniel
Q2: I recently contacted our parish priest regarding a problem I have with anxiety, walking up to receive Communion. I told him that my husband used to get a Host for me and bring it back to me [in my pew] until we were told by a priest that this was not allowed… However, my husband and I talked to others about it and were told that other people do this so we thought it would be ok, and we went back to my husband getting me one when he went up. I recently found out that he wasn’t taking one for himself and getting me one rather he was giving me his. This is very sweet of him however I told him I would rather he keep it for himself.
We wondered if my husband became a Eucharistic Minister we could “get around” my problem while I worked on rectifying it. I reached out to my pastor regarding my anxiety issue…. I also tried taking communion after Mass and I just feel that is too much attention on me therefore, I would feel uncomfortable receiving communion from the Eucharistic Minister that walks around the church at communion looking for people who for whatever reason are unable to go to altar to receive communion. I do not mean to be difficult.
… His response was no. Specifically, “While you are dealing with a unique situation, I’m not able to honor your request as you have suggested. Communion must be consumed at the moment of reception. This is to avoid the profanation of the Eucharist. I encourage you to continue attending Sunday Mass, and to receive Communion either by approaching the altar, or from [the minister who brings the Eucharist to those in the congregation who are infirm and cannot approach the altar themselves].” I feel that my priest is just not willing to help and this truly hurts my heart…. I don’t mean to be difficult or argumentative. I just feel that if he could do something it would be nice if he did and not so hurtful. –Jeanne Continue reading
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