Bringing a friend to church

[danfinocchio]

I have a friend who would like to come to church with me tomorrow (Palm Sunday). I’ve been praying for him for a while but I’m still shocked he wants to. I don’t want to list his sins because I know I’m no better but there are some binding ones that he may not be able to get out of right away. I think that if I say anything about those too soon he may reject it so I’m thinking maybe let him come to mass a few times, talk with him and bring it up when I feel he’ll understand. At the same time I don’t want to bring him a permissive gospel if you know what I mean?

He used to go to Catholic school but hasn’t received the Eucharist or gone to confession in 10 years. What should I say if he wants to receive the Eucharist? I don’t want to make him feel left out but at the same time (not trying to judge) I don’t think he’s in a position to receive it…

Any advice?

 

[LindaSK]

He may not be expecting to go to Communion. The time to bring up the subject is before you go. Ask him if he has given any thought as to whether he feels he should receive Communion before he has gone back to Confession. Is there a chance he has gone to Confession, and you are not aware? Express your concern charitably. You don’t want to discourage him from going to Mass, but you also don’t want him to receive Jesus unworthily. Not a judgment on your part, just a concern. He has had some Catholic instruction, so you won’t be telling him something he hasn’t heard at some point before. He may be glad you care enough to remind him. Be honest. Be kind. Pray about it. God will help you find the right words, and the right moment. Sounds like God may already be working in/on your friend?

You are both in my prayers.

God bless,
Linda

 

[Poco]

If he wants to go, by all means, take him!
As to your other questions, what Linda said!
I, myself, cannot validly partake of the Eucharist at Mass (yet), but I don’t feel “left out”. I wasn’t the only one still standing in the pews while everyone else was lining up to receive it!
Without knowing more about your friend, I can’t give any more advice than what Linda has already given.
At least he already has a friend to attend church with!

 

[lutherlic]

He may be able to receive a blessing in place of communion.

I am not sure how to indicate that when you approach the Eucharistic minister.

Here in my Southern diocese, that is indicated by crossing your arms such that your closed hands are against opposite shoulders. I have heard that same posture means you wish to receive on the tongue in some other areas.