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Category Archives: Parish Life
Using (And Misusing) Donations to the Church
Q1: Suppose a parishioner donates an article, such as a crucifix, for the church’s main Crucifix, and it is accepted for that use and purpose. Does canon 1300, or any other canon, say anything about whether another pastor can decide … Continue reading
Posted in Other Canonical Questions, Parish Life
Tagged canon law, Catholic, donation, Peter's Pence
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When Does Disobedience Constitute Schism?
Q: I am president of a student organization associated with our local diocese, which is served by a chaplain, and occasionally Mass is celebrated. In the past, the Mass has been celebrated on our college campus, in a general-use chapel, … Continue reading
Posted in Crimes and Sanctions, Parish Life
Tagged canon law, Catholic, disobey, excommunication, schism
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Altar Girls and the Pope’s New Document
Q: With the Pope’s Spiritus Domini document, the girls of our country are enthusiastic in becoming altar girls. But after reading your article “Canon Law and Altar Girls” and Spiritus Domini, I understood that the Acolyte and Lector ministries which … Continue reading
Posted in Holy Mass, Parish Life, Rights of the Faithful
Tagged acolyte, altar girl, canon law, Catholic, lector, ministrie, minor orders, Spiritus Domini
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Do Children Have to Make Their First Communion at Their Own Parish?
Q1: My youngest daughter is ready for first communion. She has attended the catechism classes, she has done all the required steps. Our priest is also a friend and knows that very well. He has given communion to our five older children. Yet, … Continue reading
Posted in Parish Life, Rights of the Faithful, Sacraments, The Eucharist
Tagged canon law, Catholic, First Communion, First Holy Communion, first penance, parish
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Repost: Is Confession Still an Easter Duty?
(This was written some time ago, but since it has become incredibly popular during the Lenten season, it seems worthwhile to bring it to readers’ attention once again. Note that declarations of a “pandemic” do not eliminate the clergy’s responsibility … Continue reading
Posted in Confession, Parish Life, Sacraments
Tagged canon law, Catholic, confession, Easter duty, holy communion, penance, sacrament
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