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AggieCatholic
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | San Antonio, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 82 |
| First Name: | Lance | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | United Methodist to Roman Catholic (Anglican Use) |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 11:53 am |
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....did or will ya'll look into or even become part of organizations within your parish or the church in general? I became very active in the Knights of Columbus and even attended several Opus Dei events, which I enjoyed very much. I also became a thurifer for my college parish.
I'm sure there are many other great organizations out there and would love to hear about them.
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What part of, "Hoc est enim Corpus meum" don't you understand?
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mg57
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Connecticut USA |
| Posts: | 234 |
| First Name: | mg57 | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Infant Baptised Catholic |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 12:40 pm |
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Aggie -
Another one is Communion & Liberation (CL), which grew out of being primarily for university students in Italy. Both Pope John Paul II & Pope Benedict XVI have been enthusiastic about them.
http://www.traces-cl.com/
http://www.clonline.org/FirstPage.htm
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bjbouwer
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Wisconsin USA |
| Posts: | 57 |
| First Name: | Bonnie | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian Scientist, pinball Christian, RCC in 2006 |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 03:49 pm |
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| I've been led to look into the 3rd Order Carmelites. There was no organization in our area, but it turned out that 4 other women were searching, too.
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Bonnie in WI
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mrsbmoo
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| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Virginia USA |
| Posts: | 344 |
| First Name: | Becky | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | former Methodist. RCA, Presbyterian, Holiness, Wesleyan... Catholic as of June ... |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 04:17 pm |
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I am in my second year of becoming a Benedictine Oblate. The book we are studying this year pretty much describes it, "How to be a Monastic without leaving your day job". We seek balance in life and constant conversion and our motto is Work and Pray.
And.....what is a thurifer?
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Becky
Wife of Michael(called Moo) and stay at home mom to 5 daughters between 13 months and 17
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AggieCatholic
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | San Antonio, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 82 |
| First Name: | Lance | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | United Methodist to Roman Catholic (Anglican Use) |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 04:32 pm |
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| A thurifer handles the thurible, which is oftern described as "the incense thingy", used during the processional and the blessing of the alter and the gospels. It's really a neat job getting the charcoal and incense ready for father. Plus, I love the smell. Cleaning up is always messy, but it's worth it. Also, I think I look good in an alb.
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What part of, "Hoc est enim Corpus meum" don't you understand?
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BodRod
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 2nd, 2006 |
| Location: | Apple Valley, California USA |
| Posts: | 840 |
| First Name: | Cliff | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Raised an SDA, then Generic Christian, finally at home with ... |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 07:45 pm |
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| I am a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the RCIA team. I find both offices very rewarding.
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Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro.
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bjbouwer
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Wisconsin USA |
| Posts: | 57 |
| First Name: | Bonnie | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian Scientist, pinball Christian, RCC in 2006 |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 09:36 pm |
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I mistook your message - I thought you were looking for organizations within the church that we headed towards . ..
I've been playing the organ, since the regular music director quit about the time I joined. We have a new music director now (I couldn't take the position because of the drive and my family obligations) so just this week this work ended.
I'm helping with RCIA, too.
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Bonnie in WI
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SBC2RCC
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | York, South Carolina USA |
| Posts: | 136 |
| First Name: | Monte | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | was Southern Baptist Minister, now Roman Catholic |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 10:23 pm |
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I joined the Knights of Columbus. I just made my third degree and now can hold office. But I have been doing Operation Hope with them for months, collecting for special needs children. It is important for many to join and be active in this group and others, as there is a need for people to serve and use these groups as a venue for following Christ.
I joined the choir before RCIA was over, and still serve this way, playing guitar for three masses each Sunday, including a spanish mass, even though I do not speak Spanish.
I'm looking forward to other groups, such as third orders of various types.
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In Christ,
Monte W
(Formerly on CHN Forum as "Pilgrim Paul"
Minima Maxima Sunt
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Truthseeker
Member
| Joined: | Wed Oct 4th, 2006 |
| Location: | Costa Mesa, California USA |
| Posts: | 457 |
| First Name: | Laura | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | lapsed and returned CATHOLIC!!!!!! |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 10:28 pm |
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you guys are so lucky.
I'm afraid to do anything. Always afraid.
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Lord, please make my will your Will!
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SBC2RCC
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | York, South Carolina USA |
| Posts: | 136 |
| First Name: | Monte | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | was Southern Baptist Minister, now Roman Catholic |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 10:37 pm |
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I could not help but respond to TRUTHSEEKER...
"Fear Not" and "Fret Not" ring in my ears from the Bible. Look up 2nd Timothy 1:7.
And I'll pray for you to have an opportunity to join some group at church, that it will literally fall in your lap.
Don't take this as anything but encouragement, you can do it. Pope John Paul II took the Nike commercial words and used them for our practice of faith, "Just do it!"
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In Christ,
Monte W
(Formerly on CHN Forum as "Pilgrim Paul"
Minima Maxima Sunt
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BodRod
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 2nd, 2006 |
| Location: | Apple Valley, California USA |
| Posts: | 840 |
| First Name: | Cliff | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Raised an SDA, then Generic Christian, finally at home with ... |
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Posted: Tue Nov 7th, 2006 11:45 pm |
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Hi Truthseeker,
I think I will disagree with you on one point. I do not help out because I am lucky. I am helping out because there is a great need. Our parish has 2 type-written pages of ministeries, all of which need support and help. The people who head up the ministeries are so greatful for the help that they overlook my mistakes. To give you an example or two of my mistakes; in my service as a Eucharistic Minister, during the first year and a half I have poured the chalices in the wrong order, I have banged the pitcher on the alter, I have stood in the wrong place to serve, I have stood in the wrong place to receive and I don't know what else I have probably done. In spite of all my goofs, I have been given an engraved name tag which means I am a member of the team and I am scheduled for some kind of service every Sunday. My point with all this chatter is that there is probably a service you could do which would help the church and help you also. BTW, it is a great way to get friends. In our parish, the Eucharistic Ministers, the Lectors, the musicians and the choir all meet in the back before Mass make a circle with each person holding hands with the adjacent persons and Father offers a prayer. It gives us the feeling of belonging to a family.
I am sure that other ministeries have other advantages.
May I suggest you talk to your priest and try just one of the ministeries. For example, if meeting and greeting people is a problem for you, you might try being part of the ministry that brings food for the people who attend funerals and are fed before they return home. Like I said earlier, there are many types of ministeries. All you have to do is try one. 
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Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro.
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AggieCatholic
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | San Antonio, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 82 |
| First Name: | Lance | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | United Methodist to Roman Catholic (Anglican Use) |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 11:35 am |
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bjbouwer - Really, you had it right, this post is about any group or organization within the church. I, like many people outside the church, had no idea there were so many different aspects of the church at large. As a matter of fact, some of the groups mentioned so far I've never heard of and I'm enjoying looking them up. But, it's also interesting to see how those new to the church are finding ways to assist in the mass.
Truthseeker - I know you have many gifts to offer and I'll pray that you find the courage to share them.
____________________
What part of, "Hoc est enim Corpus meum" don't you understand?
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Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 03:42 pm |
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Hello Everyone,
Yes, I agree that it is very important and necessary for our spiritual growth to invest in and volunteer our time and energies into ministries connected with the church. This is one of the concerns I have regarding my journey of faith. I am involved in my Protestant Church and close to some of the brethren there. I think about the time when I will slowly have to "disengage" myself from these committments (the choir being one of them) as I am being drawn closer to the Catholic faith. Anyhow, that's a whole other story. It's comforting for me to know that there are Catholic ministries out there that I can be involved in when that day comes (down the road) for me to be part of the Catholic Church. (whenever that will be)
BTW, can women belong to the Knights of Columbus or is it just a man's organization? Are there any Catholic pro-life ministries in which Protestant Christians are permitted to participate? During the summer, I went to an Evangelical Outreach in our area that involves many denominations. While there, I met folks from a pro-life organization. As I was talking to the woman who is very involved in this ministry, I became interested in getting involved. I asked her if Catholics participated in the ministry and her reply troulbled me. She said many Catholic Churches donate money, clothing, and various items. But, she said, they don't allow Catholics to be personally involved in the ministry (counseling the women, answering the phones, etc.). Only those who have been born-again and have a personal relationship with Christ can be volunteers in our ministry, she said. How exclusive that is, I thought.
Recently, I heard a man on the Protestant Christian radio station in our area say something very profound. He said, if I am fighting a battle, I should accept as many people as possible who want to join the battle with me. Then he said that he is involved in various ministries in his community that believe differently than him in doctrine, but they are able to unite in order to help people in his community. I think we need to join in heart and mind against the spriritual forces of darkness that permeate our communities and society in general.
Anyhow, I intended this to be just a blurb and ended up with a few paragraphs.
God Bless You All,
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
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AggieCatholic
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | San Antonio, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 82 |
| First Name: | Lance | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | United Methodist to Roman Catholic (Anglican Use) |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 04:07 pm |
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Darlene - The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic family organization in that there is a place for wives, children or whoever. Many councils have women's auxillaries and Columbian Squires Circles for children and youth. But, yes, regular membership is reserved for Catholic gentlemen who want to be better fathers, husbands, brothers and sons.
As for pro-life activities within the church, I've never heard of situations where Catholics and protestants were divided. I've done marches with Lutherans, stood and prayed with Methodists and anything else you can think of. The mission is clear and we need all the help we can get.
Last edited on Wed Nov 8th, 2006 04:12 pm by AggieCatholic
____________________
What part of, "Hoc est enim Corpus meum" don't you understand?
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BodRod
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 2nd, 2006 |
| Location: | Apple Valley, California USA |
| Posts: | 840 |
| First Name: | Cliff | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Raised an SDA, then Generic Christian, finally at home with ... |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 04:15 pm |
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I have been considering joining the KofC and I have been wondering how much it will cost, what the dues are and how much the capes, uniform and head gear that I see on EWTN costs. Anybody know? 
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Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro.
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AggieCatholic
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | San Antonio, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 82 |
| First Name: | Lance | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | United Methodist to Roman Catholic (Anglican Use) |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 04:29 pm |
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The costs for KofC membership will depend on how much the council you join charges per year. My dues are $25 annually. The men you've seen on EWTN that have capes are 4th degree color corps members and they pay a little more to be in a 4th degree assembly plus the costs on the regalia, which is around $300, but you do not have to purchase the regalia to be a 4th degree member.
Now for my sales pitch: There is no reason why a Catholic gentleman in good standing with the church should not be in the Knights. I'm a 3rd degree and I've loved every moment in the Knights. Talk to men who are Knights in your area and find out where an active council is. Joining is easy and you can be a active as your schedule dictates. Remember, just like all orgainizations especially in the church, you get out of it what you put in. If you have any specific questions feel free to send me an email or message me through this board.
____________________
What part of, "Hoc est enim Corpus meum" don't you understand?
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CajunRick
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 06:04 pm |
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Darlene wrote: BTW, can women belong to the Knights of Columbus or is it just a man's organization?
The Knights of Columbus is, by definition, a men's only organization. Most KC councils have ladies' auxillaries, however. Some are open only to wives of Knights, but others are open to other women as well. Contact your local KC organization to find out. Please note that KC members must be practicing Catholics. You can check out the KC's at their web site, which will also help you to find your nearest council. KC councils are chartered through the international organization and are not directly connected to any parish or diocese.
Are there any Catholic pro-life ministries in which Protestant Christians are permitted to participate?
It is actually rare to find a Catholic ministry that is not open to anyone who wants to be involved. KC's are a rare exception; sacramental ministries and catechesis are another. But all service ministries, such as the St. Vincent de Paul Society which aids the poor with clothing, utility assistance, and medication, and local food banks which are often sponsored initially by the Catholic community and then opened to participation by members of other religious communities, accept all the help they can get. Even such local ministries as bereavement committees, environment committees, church choirs, etc., are generally open to all. Catholics are not exclusive in accepting assistance from wherever it comes.
The primary pro-life organization is the National Right to Life Committee which was started by Catholics and broadened into a non-denominational advocacy group which is still largely Catholic in its membership.
Your profile doesn't list where you're from so I can't give you any information on local groups in your area, so you'll have to narrow it down from there.
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BodRod
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 2nd, 2006 |
| Location: | Apple Valley, California USA |
| Posts: | 840 |
| First Name: | Cliff | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Raised an SDA, then Generic Christian, finally at home with ... |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 07:18 pm |
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| Thanks for the help and info everybody. I think I will check it out here at the local level.
____________________
Gratias agamus Domino Deo nostro.
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Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 07:53 pm |
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Hello Cajunrick,
I am from the Stroudsburg/Saylorsburg/Lehighton area of Pennsylvania. We live approx. 35-40 miles from Allentown and the same distance from Scranton, which are the two largest cities closest to us.
BTW, can I change my profile to include a little bit more info about me? I'm still trying to become familiar with this new format.
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
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CajunRick
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 08:00 pm |
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Darlene wrote:
BTW, can I change my profile to include a little bit more info about me? I'm still trying to become familiar with this new format.
Click on My Account at the top of any page, then Profile, and you can modify your information.
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CajunRick
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Posted: Wed Nov 8th, 2006 08:17 pm |
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Darlene wrote:
I am from the Stroudsburg/Saylorsburg/Lehighton area of Pennsylvania. We live approx. 35-40 miles from Allentown and the same distance from Scranton, which are the two largest cities closest to us.
Allentown and Scranton each are the seats of a diocese, with Stroudsburg in the Diocese of Scranton and Lehighton in the Diocese of Allentown. I was going to give you contact information in your local church parishes but I really can't do that at this point.
You can contact the Diocese of Allentown through their web site, or the Diocese of Scranton through theirs.
Details on the pro-life ministry of the Dicoese of Scranton is available here. The Diocese of Allentown does not have specific informatoin on their web site, but you can find contact information for their Office of Pro-Life Activities included here.
Last edited on Wed Nov 8th, 2006 08:19 pm by
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BettyBoopToo
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Camas/Washougal, Washington USA |
| Posts: | 538 |
| First Name: | Betty | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Fist Baptist/Calvary Babtist/Secular Confusion/ Roman Catholic |
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Posted: Sat Nov 11th, 2006 11:03 pm |
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Darlene wrote: Hello Everyone,
Yes, I agree that it is very important and necessary for our spiritual growth to invest in and volunteer our time and energies into ministries connected with the church. This is one of the concerns I have regarding my journey of faith. I am involved in my Protestant Church and close to some of the brethren there. I think about the time when I will slowly have to "disengage" myself from these committments (the choir being one of them) as I am being drawn closer to the Catholic faith. Anyhow, that's a whole other story. It's comforting for me to know that there are Catholic ministries out there that I can be involved in when that day comes (down the road) for me to be part of the Catholic Church. (whenever that will be) I can see & understand your relationship with your fellow member's, As I remember my protestant days, I recall a big draw to fellow ship with other member's. I think that would be painful too. Here is a list of groups & ministries at my home parish, If your interested in taking a look at the possibilities available in a catholic community. Of course every parish is different and have their own programs, but some I believe are the same. http://www.st-thomascamas.org/parishlife/organizations.htm My health deteriorated three weeks after my baptism in 2003 and I've been disabled since. My condition and the procedures make me completely unreliable, I have surgery every 4-6 months and it takes 3-6 weeks to heal, then I have short window of time where I may or may not have the ability to be active. But like you said that to is another story. Personally I'd really like to join the "legion of Mary" Or the ministry for the homebound.
BTW, can women belong to the Knights of Columbus or is it just a man's organization? Are there any Catholic pro-life ministries in which Protestant Christians are permitted to participate? During the summer, I went to an Evangelical Outreach in our area that involves many denominations. While there, I met folks from a pro-life organization. As I was talking to the woman who is very involved in this ministry, I became interested in getting involved. I asked her if Catholics participated in the ministry and her reply troulbled me. She said many Catholic Churches donate money, clothing, and various items. But, she said, they don't allow Catholics to be personally involved in the ministry (counseling the women, answering the phones, etc.). Only those who have been born-again and have a personal relationship with Christ can be volunteers in our ministry, she said. How exclusive that is, I thought. Hi Darlene! We've not met, but it's nice to meet you. I cannot tell where you are from so I don't know about your area. I did want to comment on the ladies statement that Catholic's are not allowed to be involved in Pro-Life ministries. In my area of Clark County Washington, That is not true at all! We have a Crisis Prenancy Center down the hill from our parish. We supply $$, clothing, etc. But also Father puts it right in the Bulletin when they are needing volunteers for the phones, counseling, support for young ladies, and such. We have another pro-Life organization in our area (Non-separating Christians) http://lifepac.org/home/ I just received an e-mail the other day from these folks asking me to consider joining them. The e-mail was from one of their leaders who is a member of my parish. Every year father organizes a whole group, atleast two buss load's of christians to go to Olympia for the Pro-Life March. I'm not sure why this lady has any impression the Catholic's are not allowed to participate. My priest also works with an organization called "Rachels Vinyard", that puts on retreats for women who have had an abortian and father counsels them and gives talks to help them heal. "Rachels Vinyard" is ran by catholics but father always tells us to invite anyone that we may know their lives have been affected by this tradgedy, Even Grandparents and Fathers.
Recently, I heard a man on the Protestant Christian radio station in our area say something very profound. He said, if I am fighting a battle, I should accept as many people as possible who want to join the battle with me. Then he said that he is involved in various ministries in his community that believe differently than him in doctrine, but they are able to unite in order to help people in his community. I think we need to join in heart and mind against the spriritual forces of darkness that permeate our communities and society in general. I agree and have never been taught any different at my parish. I hope and pray that a catholic did not use this for an excuse not to volunteer.:? Here are some pro-life sites I have, and some I am a member of. http://www.priestsforlife.org/index.html http://www.omsoul.com/ http://www.lifesite.net/ldn/2006/jun/06063010.html http://www.feministsforlife.org/register/ Maybe if you e-mailed some of these, you could find an organization in your area. The only pro-life groups I think father would be opposed for any of us to belong to, would be a radical group who's action's were illeagal or destructive, (Not Christian) but I think you would already know that.
Anyhow, I intended this to be just a blurb and ended up with a few paragraphs.
God Bless You All,
Darlene
God Bless you too, I hope you can find somthing helpful. Betty
____________________
Patience
"Whenever anything disagreeable or displeasing happens to you, remember Christ crucified and be silent."
St. John of the Cross
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Saint Wanna Be
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| Joined: | Thu Oct 26th, 2006 |
| Location: | Oxford, Mississippi USA |
| Posts: | 17 |
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Posted: Sun Nov 12th, 2006 10:01 am |
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Jesus said, "When you do it to the least of these, you do it unto Me". This topic is incredible! It is so encouraging to read all of these posts about being involved. "Zeal for Thy House consumes me." This is one of the most powerful attributes of the Catholic Church that drew me in. While living in Spokane for two and half years, my wife, son, and I attended St. Aloysius at Gonzaga University. This was our first time to attend a Catholic Mass. It was an amazing experience. Here we were, protestant to the core, but wanting to know more about "these Catholics". We were far enough from home,(Mississippi) and were not afraid of anyone back there finding out. Very covert. After a few weeks of attending, a man stood up after one of the Masses and said they need help with the homeless ministry. For some reason, I stood up. This is not something I had done before. For two winters in Spokane I handed towels to homeless men as they left the showers. Most of them were veterans of war, but many were young. My age. I talked to many of them, and their stories were always deeply touching and sometimes bizarre. It was one of the most fulfilling things I have ever done. It had a huge impact on my thinking and my heart. The Catholic Church is the most service oriented of any church I have ever been in.
In my little town of Oxford we have the fastest growing parish in North Mississippi. I help out with the youth and am about to start working with the local jail. I am so honored and thankful to be able to help in any way God wants. I don't care what it is, service is how we get to minister unto Jesus Himself. Hallelujah! Lord, give us all grace, for we can do nothing without You. It is no merit of our own, even the desire to help is a gift. God is good to us sinners.
Peace,
Keith
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St.W.B.
In the Eucharist We find Emmanuel
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dpillie
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| Joined: | Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 |
| Location: | Fort Wayne, Indiana USA |
| Posts: | 9 |
| First Name: | | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Roman Catholic |
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Posted: Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 11:54 am |
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My original impetus after joining the Church was to give back what was given to me, so after moving from Washington, D.C. to Indiana I elected to volunteer as a sponsor for the parish RCIA program. It was a very rewarding experience, but a trifle intimidating. My parish in Indiana has several thousand members and had a very large RCIA class. I grew up in a small country Episcopal church and attending city parishes in Washington was not ready for the adjustment.
Throughout my orientation as an RCIA sponsor people kept encouraging me to make a Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) weekend. They were so persistent I became prideful and actually turned my heart away. In some ways that was a mistake, but I can see how I was not really ready for the experience God had in store for me.
My wife did make a CRHP weekend and after the overwhelmingly positive experience she had and encouragment from some other folks in the parish I knew and knowing some of the other men that would be on the weekend I finally "took the plunge."
It was the right time for me to have this experience, I wound up continuing my involvement as a member of the parish CRHP continuation commitee, and got involved as a proclaimer and helping with our parish technology committee. In a large parish, CRHP really helps break down the barriers there might be to getting to know others and to getting involved in parish activities, and I would heartily reccomend it to anyone that has the program active in their parish.
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YBiC,
Derek Alexander Ambrose Pillie
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Truthseeker
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| Joined: | Wed Oct 4th, 2006 |
| Location: | Costa Mesa, California USA |
| Posts: | 457 |
| First Name: | Laura | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | lapsed and returned CATHOLIC!!!!!! |
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Posted: Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 02:22 pm |
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Hi all-
At the moment, my church bulletin has so many ministries available. They are even making announcements, pretty much BEGGING for volunteers. Cleaning up after Mass, Eucharistic ministers, youth group and chatecumen leaders (I would love that one), even altar linen washing.
And there I sit, every week, wondering what my husband would do/say if I signed up for even one position.
Last week, my 14 year old daughter came to church with me (I have been attending Sundays sporadically lately and let her miss even more than me - baby issues), and she, who never fails to remind me that she's not Catholic, because she doesn't believe in it, didn't even receive her Lord at communion time.
Off the subject, I know, but I just don't want my faith to be the cause of any more STRIFE. I don't want my kids to be witness to anymore arguments about loving God! It is so sad.
Laura
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Lord, please make my will your Will!
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dpillie
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| Joined: | Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 |
| Location: | Fort Wayne, Indiana USA |
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Posted: Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 02:43 pm |
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Truthseeker wrote: Last week, my 14 year old daughter came to church with me (I have been attending Sundays sporadically lately and let her miss even more than me - baby issues), and she, who never fails to remind me that she's not Catholic, because she doesn't believe in it, didn't even receive her Lord at communion time.
I'm no expert, but you can actually look at this in a positive light. If she truly disagrees with the Church teaching and refused to receive Holy Communion it may indicate that she has a respect or appreciate for what Holy Communion is and means to Catholics and that her dissent would make it inappropriate for her to receive.
I'll keep you and your family in my prayers!
____________________
YBiC,
Derek Alexander Ambrose Pillie
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CajunRick
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Posted: Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 03:00 pm |
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dpillie wrote: Truthseeker wrote: Last week, my 14 year old daughter came to church with me (I have been attending Sundays sporadically lately and let her miss even more than me - baby issues), and she, who never fails to remind me that she's not Catholic, because she doesn't believe in it, didn't even receive her Lord at communion time.
I'm no expert, but you can actually look at this in a positive light. If she truly disagrees with the Church teaching and refused to receive Holy Communion it may indicate that she has a respect or appreciate for what Holy Communion is and means to Catholics and that her dissent would make it inappropriate for her to receive.
It is a good thing. When we go to communion, we express unity with the Catholic Church and all that it teaches and believes. If we do not feel that unity, we should not receive communion. Receiving the Precious Body and Precious Blood of our Savior is the most "Catholic" thing that we do, and if we cannot do it in good conscience, we should not receive at all.
At 14, she is actually showing a respect for the sacrament beyond her years.
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Truthseeker
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| Joined: | Wed Oct 4th, 2006 |
| Location: | Costa Mesa, California USA |
| Posts: | 457 |
| First Name: | Laura | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | lapsed and returned CATHOLIC!!!!!! |
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Posted: Thu Nov 23rd, 2006 12:47 pm |
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Unfortunately, I think she's just showing me that I can't make her do something she doesn't believe in. But, at least she's there.
Happy Thanksgiving. I'll remember everyone in my prayer of thanks, today.
Laura
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Lord, please make my will your Will!
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BettyBoopToo
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| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Camas/Washougal, Washington USA |
| Posts: | 538 |
| First Name: | Betty | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Fist Baptist/Calvary Babtist/Secular Confusion/ Roman Catholic |
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Posted: Thu Nov 23rd, 2006 06:04 pm |
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It is a good thing. When we go to communion, we express unity with the Catholic Church and all that it teaches and believes. If we do not feel that unity, we should not receive communion. Receiving the Precious Body and Precious Blood of our Savior is the most "Catholic" thing that we do, and if we cannot do it in good conscience, we should not receive at all.
It's funny how you expained this Rick. My husband had told me a couple of years ago, When I asked him why he refused to receive communion, even after he'd been to confession.
He continues to attend mass with me about once a month, But he said that in his opinion, When you go forward and say Amen, That you are agreeing to much more than just the Body of Christ, You were saying you agree with everything the church teaches. He's not certain that he does at this time so he won't receive until he is sure.
You are the first person I've met that explain's it similar as he did. When I spoke with a mission priest last year he said it showed integrity on his part. I just wish He would share his questions with me so I can help him with the answers. The mission priest said that he'd never ask me, His answers would have to come from others.
God Bless
Betty
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Patience
"Whenever anything disagreeable or displeasing happens to you, remember Christ crucified and be silent."
St. John of the Cross
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CajunRick
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Posted: Thu Nov 23rd, 2006 06:19 pm |
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BettyBoopToo wrote: ...But he said that in his opinion, When you go forward and say Amen, That you are agreeing to much more than just the Body of Christ, You were saying you agree with everything the church teaches. He's not certain that he does at this time so he won't receive until he is sure.
It does indeed show integrity on his part. It also shows that he has deep respect for the Eucharist and the teachings of the Church.
You are the first person I've met that explain's it similar as he did. When I spoke with a mission priest last year he said it showed integrity on his part. I just wish He would share his questions with me so I can help him with the answers. The mission priest said that he'd never ask me, His answers would have to come from others.
Have you ever thought of inviting him here? Maybe he would ask us.
I attended a three hour class on the meaning of the word "this". Jesus said, "Do this in memory of me." What "this" was he talking about? Did he mean the Eucharist, or did he mean his entire life?
When we say "Amen" when we receive the Eucharist, what do we mean? "Amen" is another four-letter word, like "this" that has a much deeper meaning than we sometimes think. "Amen" is a commitment to live a life of holiness and obedience, like "this" is a command to live a life where we put others ahead of ourselves, ultimately loving God and our neighbor. It is not just a command to break bread, but to serve as Jesus served.
One of my favorite songs is "Look Beyond" by the Dameans. We sing, "Look beyond the bread you eat, see your Savior and your Lord. Look beyond the cup you drink, see his love go on and on." Both "this" and "Amen" are not responses; they are commitments.
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Talithacumi
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| Joined: | Sat Sep 30th, 2006 |
| Location: | Eastern Ohio, USA |
| Posts: | 308 |
| First Name: | Cheri | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Cradle Catholic - Latin Rite |
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Posted: Fri Nov 24th, 2006 03:05 am |
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BettyBoopToo wrote:The mission priest said that he'd never ask me, His answers would have to come from others.
God Bless
Betty
Betty,
Unfortunately, this is probably true - and it's nothing to do with you personally. It's just human nature, I think. You know the old saying, "Familiarity breeds contempt." Not that I think you're contemptible! - but just that often when people face questions that are outside of their league about really personal and/or important issues, opening up with their questions to the ones they love the most sometimes makes them feel way too vulnerable, especially if it will potentially affect their way of life with that loved one.
I'm no expert, but in my experience this seems to be most common in men, as by nature, they do not generally find it easy to communicate in relational matters. Especially in regard to their spouses/ girlfriends/ daughters - the women in their life. I imagine it's because they feel deep down that they're supposed to be the strong one. They're supposed to be the provider, the protector, the stronghold and head of the family. So when they aren't sure about something, they're not going to want their wives to see that uncertainty in them. Partly from pride, possibly, but also, in a sense, out of a desire to be protective. Like I said, they don't want their women to see them as weak (even if we wouldn't! - they just don't really know that about us sometimes ). Btw, this doesn't describe all men in all situations, I'm sure, so I hope any guys reading this aren't upset by my conclusions or anything (my comments are not meant to be taken as being based on anything other than my own observations and experiences, and I hope I haven't come across as being insulting or anything; I just think that men and women are a little different in their outlooks on life, that's all...)
Like I said, I am only going by my own observations and experiences here... When I was dating my ex-boyfriend, and when I prayed that he would come to a better understanding of my Catholic faith, I finally realized that he was never going to approach me, so my prayer became that he would find a good Catholic man to befriend him who might help him to understand. Maybe God will answer someday... I have no way of knowing. I can only trust that God knows how to reach him better than I ever did.
I pray that a way will be made for your husband to come to a better understanding of Catholicism. Sometimes all we can do is lift our loved ones up in prayer, do our best to support them, and let the Holy Spirit go to work.
Rick suggested sending him here to ask questions. I don't know if he would, if he knows you are here, too. But you can suggest it. Ya never know.
JMJ
- Cheri
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“We do not want a Church that will move with the world; we want a Church that will move the world.”
- G.K. Chesterton
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