ACTS retreat when not in communion with the church

[chain]

A friend asked me to post this for them. They have been asked to participate in an ACTS retreat. My friend is interested, but currently not in communion with the church (due to an invalid marriage - and my friends con-validation which will not occur until after the retreat).

ACTS is a bit secretive on what happens, but my friend heard in includes communion and reconciliation. Should my friend turn down the invitation until after they are back in communion with the church (and could fully experiance the retreat)? I am not sure if the person who invited them understands their situation and how it effects their church participation.

 

[kage_ar]

Your friends could take the retreat, go to Confession and then live as brother and sister until they are married. What a wonderful way to begin the real marriage, with preparation from a retreat.

 

[puzzleannie]

or your friend could participate in the retreat and be among several folks who may not be receiving communion for a variety of reasons, which are no one’s business. I am sure they are not clipping tickets for confession. Yes, your friend could also ask the priest who is helping him work toward convalidation for counsel that is specific to his own situation.

 

[St_Francis]

Your friends could take the retreat, go to Confession and then live as brother and sister until they are married. What a wonderful way to begin the real marriage, with preparation from a retreat.

Living together as brother and sister and receiving the sacraments should only be undertaken with the supervision of a spiritual director or confessor as there are other considerations which the couple would need to discuss with a knowledgeable person.