Do baptized non-Catholics have to be lifted from excommunication before reception into the Church?

[martinjacobd]

Long story short, I have assisted in an abortion (by paying for the morning-after pill) and attempted suicide. Both of these offenses, as I understand it, automatically place one under excommunication. I am not sure that is the proper term in this case, as I was not a Catholic when I did them. I was, however, baptized. I was even considering entrance into the church when I did both of these sins. I had not started my formal Catholic education. But I knew that these were both very serious sins, and I knew that what I did was wrong.

I am slated to be received into the Church very soon! So my question is, do I have to see a bishop to lift my excommunications, or did I not incur these as I was not yet formally received into the Church?

I am not discerning the priesthood, but just out of curiosity I ask another question. I understand that both of these sins are impediments to the priesthood. Are they still impediments if committed before formal conversion?

Thanks!

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

Since you were not a Catholic, you could not be excommunicated. Since you have been baptized, you will need to go to Confession before being received into the Catholic Church. Simply confess this matter to the priest at that time. Those who are preparing you should instruct you regarding Confession (also known as Reconciliation).

As for the priesthood, one can receive a dispensation in order to be ordained.

Welcome home!

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.