The Lord said to Moses and Aaron: This is the Passover statute. No foreigner may eat of it. (Exodus 12:43)
Why we invite those to the Table
I have often been
confused,
Why we invite those to the Table
who give claim to Catholic faith,
whose holiness is suspect,
who reject the moral authority
and teaching
of the Catholic faith
with respect,
for example,
to abortion
and sexual sin;
While at the same time
While at the same time
we deny the Table
to non-Catholic Christians
who live openly holy lives,
who adhere to the moral authority
and teaching
of the Catholic faith
with respect,
for example,
to such things.
I am
confused.
I am
confused.
10 comments:
I agree Rich, it is one of the more troubling aspects of an otherwise beautiful faith.
Is it not because we humans know not what is in another person's and soul?
While it is true no one knows another's soul, but when a person marches in pro-abortion rallies, or votes pro-abortion in the House or Senate (federal or state), or is publically vocal in their support of issues the Church clearly teaches against, how else can we get a picture of what they truly believe? A tree is judged by its fruit.
And again, I am confused by the refusal to the Table of one group of Christians who abide by the Church's moral teachings, and we accept others simply because they call themselves Catholic, despite their open rebellion against the Church's teaching. It doesn't make sense to me. Thus, my confusion.
In my protestant church, we say the communion table is The Lord's Table, not our particular church or denomination. The pastor also prefaces communion by asking that only those who have accepted Christ as their personal savior participate, and that all examine our hearts and become right with God first.
I enjoy attending Mass sometimes because I agree it is beautiful, but always feel left out when I am not invited to take the Eucharist. What would happen if I did it anyway? Would they refuse me if they knew I am not Catholic?
I am wondering what you think about Judas partaking in the first communion. Any application or doctrinal problems?
Initially, I was unable to comment here, so I posted on FB. This has to do with Eucharist being a sacrament of initiation. We are joined together as one body of believers, giving our assent to the belief that Jesus is truly present, Body and Blood, in the Eucharist. This is both in accordance with scripture and with the teachings of the early church fathers. Those who have not been baptized as Catholics, who believe the Eucharist is merely symbolic, do not really want to say "Amen" to the beliefs of our Eucharist.
Would this teaching surprise some Catholics? Probably! That's why catechesis is so important; however, we are *all* growing in wisdom and understanding. However, Paul strongly cautions in 1 Corinthians ch 11 not to receive the Eucharist unworthily. It's serious.
Regarding Catholics that aren't following Church teaching, I think that some sins are more visible than others, but even most bishops hesitate to judge the state of communicants' souls. I just pray that I'm worthy. ;-}
Anonymous, will get back to you shortly. It's late and early day tomorrow.
'Teacher' -- thanks for posting. Will get back later. Gotta get to bed. Early day tomorrow. Not enough hours in the day.
Hello, Anonymous. You wrote in part "I enjoy attending Mass sometimes because I agree it is beautiful, but always feel left out when I am not invited to take the Eucharist. What would happen if I did it anyway? Would they refuse me if they knew I am not Catholic? I am wondering what you think about Judas partaking in the first communion. Any application or doctrinal problems?"
What would happen if you tried to take the Eucharist? I guess it depends on the priest offering it.As for Judas' leaving the Supper before the first Communion, I think it might be fun to speculate as to whether the Lord would have served Judas, knowing his plan to betray Him. But since that's not the way it turned out, my opinion is probably as valuable as the next person's.
Teacher, you wrote in part: "I just pray that I'm worthy."
To which I respond, 'Amen."
Post a Comment