Altar girls - how to raise issue with priest

[FrDavid96]

Because it’s not a matter of right or wrong, merely preferences, and this is something Rome has given the Bishops power over. I hate it really, but I won’t complain to my Bishop over something he has authority over.

You are always free to express your opinion to your bishop.

Complaining in the sense of “I saw this and want you to do something about it because it’s not allowed” is not the same thing as expressing your thoughts and preferences.

The bishop has authority to permit it but not authority to require it of any individual priest.

 

[FrDavid96]

I could use some advice on how to raise an issue diplomatically with my Priest. We now have a female altar server at the Sunday evening Mass. I am under the impression that this is an illicit practice and that it is not authorised by the Church. I have read the information given on CAF about the issue and have reached this conclusion, but please correct me if I am in error. The thing is, I am not “hot” on these issues: I consider it my obligation to be as well informed as I can be but I am just a member of the laity and cannot speak with much authority on the issue. I would like to arm myself with the facts and raise the issue with the Priest, however, because I do not think that anyone else will do so.

I’d like some tips on how to go about it. My plans were to a) do my research, b) be diplomatic and Christlike in raising the issue. But I think that in response to whatever I say I may be told that “such and such a document says this” or that “the Bishop allowed it”. He is usually faithful to the doctrines, ordinances and traditions of the Church so I feel a bit out of my depth raising the issue. Is it possible that the practice is, in fact, licit, and I am letting my personal views get in the way of Truth? Just wanting to check with you guys that I am in the right here.

I am seeking clarity but not polemic. Thank you in anticipation of your response.

Yours,
Sian

It is not universally allowed. It is an exception which is allowed if, and only if, the local bishop permits it. The real question is whether or not YOUR bishop of YOUR diocese permits it.

I would suggest that you look at your own diocese’s webpage to see if there’s any reference to it. That would be at least a start.