Can I get a mass said for my non-catholic grandfather?

[Justwondering123]

I’m Irish Catholic and when I’m not at university I attend mass at the church I’ve been to since I was born. My grandfather was Scottish and an ex-Protestant and always said he appreciated Catholicism, I think I would like to get a mass said for him at my church. Would this be inappropriate considering he wasn’t religious (I know he would appreciate it but I’m wondering about the priest?)

 

[Michael4]

I see nothing wrong with it. If your grandfather was Christian then I think the priest would be pleased to do so, even if he was Protestant.

 

[angel12]

I’ve had Masses said for non-Catholic relatives. No problem. It would be a loving thing for you to do.

 

[1ke]

Yes you can have a mass said for whomever you want. It is a wonderful act of charity.

 

[1959]

You can have a mass said for an Atheist even, though they may not appreciate it much! Lol

 

[greenrangerx]

Absolutely yes! All people need our prayers, and what better than the prayer of the Mass. Our deacon once had a mass offered for his niece and her husband on their wedding day since they chose to have a civil marriage instead of being married in the church.

 

[Roseeurekacross]

Yes of course you can

 

[Augustinian]

The only time it might be inappropriate is if your non-catholic grandfather was openly antagonistic to the Catholic Church. But that’s not the case here.

 

[exnihilo]

Yes it would be appropriate. My great grandfather was an atheist who hated the church and killed himself. I definitely include him in Mass intentions. His soul really needs prayers.

 

[Tis_Bearself]

It’s no problem. I’ve had Masses said for Presbyterian relatives and for deceased people who to my knowledge weren’t part of any church.
I’m about to arrange some Masses for a deceased Jewish/ Unitarian person.

The only thing you might run into is that if the person was not part of a Catholic parish, then the parish might send the Mass stipend to the missions and ask them to do the Mass so that the Masses at the parish can be said for parishioners. You still get a Mass said and the same benefits from it, either way.