First Communion without First Confession

[Markstorm]

It is precisely what I am referring to in terms of reading canon law in context. We are discussing one parish which has chosen to allow First Eucharist prior to Reconciliation, not extreme cases, but someone felt the need to pull the most dramatic passage from canon law to prove their point. Common sense and mercy overrides law in all situations. Thats why God gave us free will.

That’s because canon law unequivocally and straightforwardly proves their point.

 

[Phemie]

Canon law is meant to be understood in the context of the entire section. What is happening here is similar to citing a passage from the Bible which tells someone to pluck out their neighbor’s eye to justify having done so. It is essential that canon law, the catechism and all official documents be read and understood in the complete context in which they were written including the intention, and possible exceptions, and God-given common sense must be used. This above all is our moral obligation.

Those 2 particular canons (913 & 914) don’t lend themselves to misinterpretation. They unequivocally state what may and may not be done and what the pastor’s responsibilities are.

 

[Suester]

Understood. but, for the record I’ll risk eternal damnation to provide viaticum to a dying Catholic child regardless of his or her ability to differentiate between the Holy Eucharist and ordinary food. I will take that responsibility on myself. And, while I understand the purpose of the Church’s teachings to provide order and deepen our sense of reverence, I believe Jesus Christ would more likely condemn me for witholding his saving Body and Blood from a child rather than congratulate me for following canon law.

And isn’t this really what it is all about in the end? Being Christ?

Catholic moral teaching charges us to consider five elements when faced with a decision: Scripture, Conscience, Church Teachings & Tradition, Sensus Fidelium, and Knowlege. Each is equally weighted. To place more importance on one element over the others is risky and leads to fundamentalism (this was the problem Jesus had with the Pharisees). Our sense of Catholic decision making is not about rules (although they are helpful), rather it is about our relationship with God.

I’m sorry I have taken this thread so far from the original question about one parish allowing children to receive first Holy Eucharist before First Reconciliation. It is valid to be concerned. Certainly the rules are needed but my point is that Catholicism is so much richer than its rules. And I was floored by the extreme example of canon 913. The volume of Catholic writing, thought, and most of all, action speaks to the workings of the Holy Spirit who inspires each of us, with or without Canon law. We are obliged to think and model our lives on Christ and live as he did. I try to do this every day of my life.

 

[benedictgal]

Understood. but, for the record I’ll risk eternal damnation to provide viaticum to a dying Catholic child regardless of his or her ability to differentiate between the Holy Eucharist and ordinary food. I will take that responsibility on myself. And, while I understand the purpose of the Church’s teachings to provide order and deepen our sense of reverence, I believe Jesus Christ would more likely condemn me for witholding his saving Body and Blood from a child rather than congratulate me for following canon law.

And isn’t this really what it is all about in the end? Being Christ?

Catholic moral teaching charges us to consider five elements when faced with a decision: Scripture, Conscience, Church Teachings & Tradition, Sensus Fidelium, and Knowlege. Each is equally weighted. To place more importance on one element over the others is risky and leads to fundamentalism (this was the problem Jesus had with the Pharisees). Our sense of Catholic decision making is not about rules (although they are helpful), rather it is about our relationship with God.

I’m sorry I have taken this thread so far from the original question about one parish allowing children to receive first Holy Eucharist before First Reconciliation. It is valid to be concerned. Certainly the rules are needed but my point is that Catholicism is so much richer than its rules. And I was floored by the extreme example of canon 913. The volume of Catholic writing, thought, and most of all, action speaks to the workings of the Holy Spirit who inspires each of us, with or without Canon law. We are obliged to think and model our lives on Christ and live as he did. I try to do this every day of my life.

I don’t think that anyone is debating you on the issue of the danger of death for a child. However, please remember that the Holy See has indicated that under normal circumstances, First Confession must precede reception of First Holy Communion. In essence, Peter, through the document Redemptionis Sacramentum, has already spoken and spoken rather clearly on this issue. This is not an option. It must happen in this manner. Now, if a parent doesn’t not believe that his child is ready for First Confession, then, the reception of First Holy Communion needs to be delayed.