P
pnewton
Guest
Saint John Paul, when he said they were not to receive communion called it a practice. Actually, I think he said something about being an unbroken practice. That does not mean it cannot also be doctrine, but I wonder, since He was such a precise theologian.
I am thinking about whether communion worthiness hinges on the relationship with the Church, or with God, or with both, as a matter doctrine, not just a practical matter. As people can find themselves in this situation with no fault of their own (sin), much less mortal sin, it is a sticky question.
I see this “danger” as an opportunity for theological understanding and exploration, which is what Jesus promised us the Holy Spirit would do. We do not know it all yet. So maybe it is a very dangerous document, as dangerous as the Gospel. Danger is not always to be avoided.
I am thinking about whether communion worthiness hinges on the relationship with the Church, or with God, or with both, as a matter doctrine, not just a practical matter. As people can find themselves in this situation with no fault of their own (sin), much less mortal sin, it is a sticky question.
I see this “danger” as an opportunity for theological understanding and exploration, which is what Jesus promised us the Holy Spirit would do. We do not know it all yet. So maybe it is a very dangerous document, as dangerous as the Gospel. Danger is not always to be avoided.
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