Atheist Great Grandmother

[RobbyS]

Remember a mortal sin requires that the sin be a grave matter, the person know it’s a grave matter and the person freely chooses it. It’s not really easy. Plus, never underestimate the uncovenanted mercy of God. We must not despair - one thief was saved; we must not presume - one thief was not saved.

Faith is a matter of the prevenient grace of God. We are called to live in this world cooperating with that grace. I don’t know all the details of your great grandmother - obviously.I note you said you don’t know her very well.

Maybe that’s the answer - get to know her. Spend time - with her or on the phone. Learn about her life - her hopes, fears, loves, troubles, etc. Tell her of yours. In my experience most old people are NOT afraid of dying - they are afraid of dying alone. Be there for her - and for you. Maybe that’s what God is calling you to - to be his instrument by being her companion and gg son. Also, maybe God is trying to calm your mind?

Pax te cum

Indeed. I heard Cardinal Arinze give this advise on bringing atheists to Christ. First become their friends, do not argue religion. So in the case of this aged relative, the best thing to do is to love her and make her aware that you love her. Act out you faith, don’t preach it, but don’t hide it. Share it if asked.

 

[grandfather]

Well I guess I should go visit her.

Tell her you love her. Let her respond. Hold her hand. Be sure to touch her. Tell her thank you for being the mother to your grandparents and grandmother to your parents and you would not be alive if it was not for her. Let her respond. Don’t rush. Tell her that you are praying for her and that you will continue to do so after she is no longer here. Tell her that in that way you believe she will be present to you and all her loved ones. Tell her you hope to be with her again. Have a Mass said for her as death approaches.

If she seems to respond to you and you see an opportunity ask her if she would like to have her sins forgiven before she dies.

There are many deathbed conversions. Continue to hope in God for her.

Saint Joseph is the patron of the dying and very powerful saint in heaven. Invoke him.

Pray the Memorare, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

Don’t worry. Jesus commands you to not worry. Obey Him.
Entrust all your family to Him and the prayers of His holy mother.

 

[holdencaulfield]

@grandfather:

Thank You. I will try.

 

[rwoehmke]

Oh, fer corn sakes! Why not just ask her if she was ever baptized? It sounds like you are stumbling around in the dark and don’t even know if the room has a light switch. .