OK to attending this Protestant group?

[Brendan_64]

There is nothing at all wrong with attending an ecumenical scripture study group, or prayer group in a Protestant church, we are after all called by Vatican II to reach ecumenically outward to our Protestant brothers and sisters in Christ, in the spirit of Christian fellowship. Personally I would feel comfortable attending a Protestant service on the odd occasion, but I personally would feel quite uncomfortable attending a Protestant worship service on a regular basis. Speak to your parish priest and be guided by his advice. He knows you and most likely knows the Protestant minister and church, we don’t, so he’s in a better position than we are to tell you whether its OK or not for you to regularly attend. I’d go by his guidance if I was you.

 

[Rich_C]

There is nothing at all wrong with attending an ecumenical scripture study group, or prayer group in a Protestant church, we are after all called by Vatican II to reach ecumenically outward to our Protestant brothers and sisters in Christ, in the spirit of Christian fellowship. Personally I would feel comfortable attending a Protestant service on the odd occasion, but I personally would feel quite uncomfortable attending a Protestant worship service on a regular basis. Speak to your parish priest and be guided by his advice. He knows you and most likely knows the Protestant minister and church, we don’t, so he’s in a better position than we are to tell you whether its OK or not for you to regularly attend. I’d go by his guidance if I was you.

As far as I know, Vatican II didn’t overturn the Church’s teaching that it’s a sin for a Catholic to worship in a Protestant church. Have you heard otherwise?

I’ve been to observe on occasion but I don’t sing along or say “amen.” Mostly I did this as part of an agreement to get a Protestant to visit Mass in return.

 

[clem456]

That’s what I was thinking. No one can forbid like minded individuals from getting together to pray, have dinner, watch a movie, etc.

-Tim-

Exactly. Gather together with other parishioners. Start a bible study. A bible study does not have to be advertised or officially sanctioned by the parish. Hold it in your home. I am involved in a weekly study that rotates to men’s homes weekly. It’s a beautiful thing. It takes commitment. Don’t wait for someone else to start it.
I find it hard to believe that you live in a parish that discourages activities like this. Is it possible there is a misunderstanding?

 

[TomyS]

And Mass is about the Eucharist, not about the music.

I think Mass is about worshiping God in the Eucharist. That is the most important thing.

Singing to the Lord is also worshiping God.

Psalm 96
Sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing to the Lord, praise his name;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

 

[Brendan_64]

As far as I know, Vatican II didn’t overturn the Church’s teaching that it’s a sin for a Catholic to worship in a Protestant church. Have you heard otherwise?

I’ve been to observe on occasion but I don’t sing along or say “amen.” Mostly I did this as part of an agreement to get a Protestant to visit Mass in return.

If it is for the purposes of ecumenism it is permitted according to Unitatis Redintegratio.

"In certain special circumstances, such as the prescribed prayers “for unity,” and during ecumenical gatherings, it is allowable, indeed desirable that Catholics should join in prayer with their separated brethren. Such prayers in common are certainly an effective means of obtaining the grace of unity, and they are a true expression of the ties which still bind Catholics to their separated brethren. “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them”.

Whether or not a specific gathering falls under this, would be down to the intent of the person taking part, their conscience, and the advice of their parish priest.

Common worship is normally forbidden, BUT Unitatis Redintegration states that the local ordinary can grant permission for this is he feels that “grace to be had from it sometimes commends this practice”. The local Bishops Conference can also provide for this according to its statutes. It is no longer totally forbidden, the local ordinary can decide to permit it.

The bishop is the shepherd of his flock and he delegates this responsibility to his parish priests. As an ordinary parishioner it is often extremely difficult to initiate 2-way communication with your diocesan bishop, the next port of call would be the parish priest, who acts for the bishop. He is certainly better placed than any of us are to advise on such specific local matters.

 

[Brendan_64]

And Mass is about the Eucharist, not about the music.

Music is part of the liturgy of the Eucharist, part of the “fount and apex” of all Christian life. Christ is present in the entire liturgy, including when the congregation sings. The music isn’t just a ‘bolt-on’ to the ‘main business’ of the Mass.

 

[johnnyc176]

I don’t think you would be allowed to do their communion. That would indicate you believe that it is a symbol. Maybe a prayer group would be better. Again it would be an opportunity to evangelize and share that you are Catholic and belong to the One True Church of Christ. And if someone asks why you won’t take communion you could talk about the Eucharist. Also you might ask them to attend the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass with you.

 

[justtryin]

I attend Mass at the Catholic parish of my childhood (I’m the 7th generation of my family to do so) every Sunday along with my wife. While it’s the best of two Catholic parishes in town it offers next to no activities outside of the Mass. It’s been this way for at least 20 years and the last few pastors have been very hesitant to allow any new fellowship activities.

More specifically the last few pastors have not allowed the formation of a weekly Bible study, coffee socials after Mass, a supper club, or anything along those lines.

A little more than two years ago my wife and I started attending a “non-denominational Protestant church” right around the corner from our house (it took over a beautiful old Episcopal parish church). We do this on Sunday evenings in addition to attending Sunday morning Mass after being invited by a neighbor.

The services are definitely “Christian lite” but they are also not anti-Catholic in any way. The fellowship this place provides has become most precious to my wife and I. When we show up we can either pray silently inside the church (we often pray the Rosary) or visit and have coffee inside the “atrium” (parish hall.) The services begin with 2-3 FULL hymns. The hymns are beautiful/classic, my wife and I love to sing and it feels like we are singing in a 400 person choir. Then comes some quite basic communal prayer, followed by a sermon (often an excellent sermon.) Then more singing, more prayer and finally some more singing. They don’t do baptisms to my knowledge at their evening service. Then we all head to the atrium for a well planned potluck (AKA the “covered dish meal”) each and every week.

It’s a beautiful thing to be able to sit at table on a Sunday night with other Christians! It’s also wonderful to prepare a special dish each Sunday. I really enjoy doing that.

After our first visit I met with the pastor (at my doing) and explained that neither my wife nor I would ever consider leaving the Catholic Church or stop attending the Mass but that we were hungry for Christian fellowship. I also explained that I cannot afford to tithe at two parishes and that our weekly giving would be quite modest. He waved my concerns aside, said he understood and there hasn’t been a problem nor any attempt to proselytize us in over 2 years.

Is there any problem with attending their Sunday service? I certainly cannot think of any. My parish isn’t about to change (technically it could one day with the coming of a new pastor) and I would really miss going there each Sunday evening. Thank you.

Join Date: July 8, 2013
Posts: 156
Religion: Catholic Christian

There lies the question. Why not just be Catholic?

 

[Rich_C]

If it is for the purposes of ecumenism it is permitted according to Unitatis Redintegratio.

"In certain special circumstances, such as the prescribed prayers “for unity,” and during ecumenical gatherings, it is allowable, indeed desirable that Catholics should join in prayer with their separated brethren. Such prayers in common are certainly an effective means of obtaining the grace of unity, and they are a true expression of the ties which still bind Catholics to their separated brethren. “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them”.

Whether or not a specific gathering falls under this, would be down to the intent of the person taking part, their conscience, and the advice of their parish priest.

Common worship is normally forbidden, BUT Unitatis Redintegration states that the local ordinary can grant permission for this is he feels that “grace to be had from it sometimes commends this practice”. The local Bishops Conference can also provide for this according to its statutes. It is no longer totally forbidden, the local ordinary can decide to permit it.

The bishop is the shepherd of his flock and he delegates this responsibility to his parish priests. As an ordinary parishioner it is often extremely difficult to initiate 2-way communication with your diocesan bishop, the next port of call would be the parish priest, who acts for the bishop. He is certainly better placed than any of us are to advise on such specific local matters.

Thanks for that.

This is a regular Protestant worship service, not an ecumenical gathering.

So it sounds like the simple answer here is that Holy Mother Church says it’s not okay.

That is, unless the poster gets special permission from father or something.

Sounds pretty open and shut.

 

[Brendan_64]

So it sounds like the simple answer here is that Holy Mother Church says it’s not okay.

That is, unless the poster gets special permission from father or something.

On the face of it, it certainly seems like that. A discussion with the parish priest would be in order to clarify whether permission is granted to attend.

It makes sense really, in that you cannot be a member of the Catholic Church and a also be a member of a non-Catholic congregation. Popping in to the occasional service (as a visitor) on the odd occasion, in the spirit of Christian fellowship would be a different matter since you would clearly not be viewed as being a friendly visitor, rather than part of that congregation.

I think we should, as a rule, consult our parish priests before we attend services and groups organised by non-Catholic faiths, or held in non-Catholic premises. Perhaps in today’s age of accessible information, coupled with our over-confidence in our own abilities, knowledge, and discernment, we tend to make our own judgments on things, when perhaps we ought to be looking towards those who are tasked with leading and guiding us (i.e. our bishops, through our priests)? It is telling sometimes (I don’t mean necessarily in this case) when people ask for advice online about such matters, rather than speak to their own parish priest. It’s almost like we wish to be our own authority on such matters (using scripture and Church documents to back up our position) when perhaps, “Father, can I have a quick word with you after Mass?” might be a better way to approach things.

 

[englishredrose]

Whilst am anglican and therefore cant really comment

What I will say is that as you seem to be going to the other church with your eyes open in what you are doing per se and the priest and congregation are welcoming you with their eyes open in accepting you without trying to convert you at all, even subtle converstions… then it seems okay.

It gets tricky when one leaves one denomination for another though if one is leaving a stalemate church to a more exciting church in that things are happening it easy to see why even if it is different denominations. I be shot for saying God Loves us all but He does and it don’t matter what our Christian Faith is called by name and am not entirely convinced we need any either to be honest but that is probably against Catholic Teaching and no wish to upset that as it my own particular view point but well its your call I guess.

Out of interest what does your Catholic Priest say about it, seeing that you have spoken to the Minister of the Protestant Church have you spoken to your Catholic Priest and er got his blessing as well per se:thumbsup:

 

[Rich_C]

On the face of it, it certainly seems like that. A discussion with the parish priest would be in order to clarify whether permission is granted to attend.

It makes sense really, in that you cannot be a member of the Catholic Church and a also be a member of a non-Catholic congregation. Popping in to the occasional service (as a visitor) on the odd occasion, in the spirit of Christian fellowship would be a different matter since you would clearly not be viewed as being a friendly visitor, rather than part of that congregation.

I think we should, as a rule, consult our parish priests before we attend services and groups organised by non-Catholic faiths, or held in non-Catholic premises. Perhaps in today’s age of accessible information, coupled with our over-confidence in our own abilities, knowledge, and discernment, we tend to make our own judgments on things, when perhaps we ought to be looking towards those who are tasked with leading and guiding us (i.e. our bishops, through our priests)? It is telling sometimes (I don’t mean necessarily in this case) when people ask for advice online about such matters, rather than speak to their own parish priest. It’s almost like we wish to be our own authority on such matters (using scripture and Church documents to back up our position) when perhaps, “Father, can I have a quick word with you after Mass?” might be a better way to approach things.

Agreed, and wise words to remember.

Something the English Catholic author Evelyn Waugh once wrote comes to mind; “I would rather trust the opinion of the humblest parish priest than any layman.”

 

[AdDeum]

They undoubtedly teach heresies. Sitting through that every week is an unnecessary danger.

Besides, last I checked Catholics are still not allowed to worship with Protestants.

Why not just join them for the potluck since they are your friends?

I thought this was the case too… Catholics are not allowed to worship with Protestants.

I can understand wanting fellowship, but you can get fellowship with other Catholics. Worshipping and then gathering with Protestants is dangerous to your faith. Sure, most of what they teach will be the same as Catholic teaching. BUT NOT ALL… If everything they taught were the same, then they wouldn’t be protestant, right?

 

[Corki]

Dear Urn hi,
Since childhood i have attended catholic school and church services mostly on my own. I was involved in choir and youth programms and owe most of my education in Christianity to the songs sung at church at this time. I eventually married and my new brother and sister in law were ministers in a conservative Protestant church. After many years of experience as well as soul searching years in prayer and observation of both churches I have found a peaceful solution to what my spiritual home would look like. Whilst trying to live as a christ follower I have fully understood that what we seek essentially is gods approval to worship him as we so desire and to fully participate in all the blessings that being involved in a loving community has to offer. The Protestant churches has had a head start in this area. I admit that I rarely participate in catholic services these days but not becsuse i dont love and appreciate all that a catholic church offers but because i know that God recognises me being in his presence no matter on which pew I sit. I am at home in him. I believe we are united in his sight . As we focus on Christ , living the life we are called to live by word and deed we are all fit to cry ABBA father united. I pray for god to reveal HIS truth to you as you work toward peace in this area. But a word of caution. Each mans reality is truth to him so expect many varied view points on this subject. Seek your answers in prayer for their you will find peace that surpasses all understanding .

This post really sums up why there is a danger in the seemingly innocent regular participation in Protestant services. Little-by-little you get pulled away until you start to see all Christian communities as interchangeable. They are not.

 

[NetworkerforGod]

Dear corgi and other readers,
As many readers on this site seem to be in fear that you are not permitted to worship or attend other Christian churches other than catholic I would like to bring your attention to Father Omera Contelamessa. This great man , a Roman Catholic bishop , a Anglican Bishop and Pentecostal pastor.all together knelt in prayer at a meeting in Kansas City in 1977 alongside 20,000 Catholics and 2,000 non Catholics asking God for forgiveness for their part in dividing the body of Christ… The following year Contelamessa became personal advisor to the pope. To this day he encourages lowering boundaries between denominations . He and another great leader in the Anglican movement Nicky Gumbel are great friends and have led Christian services together as they spread there unity message. Nicky Gumbel leeds the largest Anglican Church in Britain. He also is the founder of the Alpha course ( a Christian fundamentals course) that is used by all… all… all denominations and is having great success in bringing not only the lost to Christ but uniting the body of Christ. I believe the pope to be very happy about this. I hope all readers catch the vision of the Christian world moving foward to stand in unity, as we live out the call of Christ to spread the gospel.

 

[Urn]

Are there other members of your parish that desire these things? Could you possibly create a “non-parish” Bible study, supper club, etc?

That is an excellent question as there really is NO opportunity to build fellowship in my parish. Let me answer your question with something that happened in my parish.

In the Jubiliee Year of 2000 a group of men started a Catholic men’s group at my parish. The pastor wasn’t supportive but he did allow it. They focused on parish physical maintenance (they did a great job), small construction projects and were always ready to set-up tables, usher, direct traffic, BBQ, etc. Most of all they met for dinner (usually BBQ), where they would sing, pray and eat. They would also sponsor a few Masses each year. I joined in 2005 and there were about 70 members plus their families.

About a year later a new pastor arrived. Within the year he told the head of the group that “We really don’t need you to exist as a parish group. It would be better if each of you simply prayed for the parish as individuals.”

We were all stunned. The pastor just didn’t want to have to attend a prayer meeting/dinner once in a great while – he attended quarterly. I think some women at the parish were also bitter that the group was thriving. We were crestfallen. We borrowed a hall (International Order of Odd Fellows) at no cost and continued with our meetings/dinner. The pastor objected but as a group we felt it was none of his business and he was gently ignored.

Then we got a call from the local bishop. The pastor had complained, the bishop didn’t want stress in the parish and asked us to please disband. Being obedient, we did just that and I can still remember our final meeting. Did it have an impact on me? Yes it did.

I would be happy to spend the time to organize and manage a group. I won’t spend a single moment though, navigating parish/diocesan politics though. Not ever.

I have seen/heard of other groups trying to get started since. Not one has been successful.

 

[Urn]

Urn, have you looked into the other Catholic parish to see if there are activities offered throughout the week?

There is another Catholic parish in town. I attend the better of the two – in all ways.

 

[Urn]

This post really sums up why there is a danger in the seemingly innocent regular participation in Protestant services. Little-by-little you get pulled away until you start to see all Christian communities as interchangeable. They are not.

And that’s not my post, nor would it be a post of any Catholic Christian I personally know.

There is a WORLD of difference between attending the Mass (or partaking of any other sacrament) in my parish and attending what is essentially an evening prayer/singing/potluck.

 

[Urn]

Whilst am anglican and therefore cant really comment

What I will say is that as you seem to be going to the other church with your eyes open in what you are doing per se and the priest and congregation are welcoming you with their eyes open in accepting you without trying to convert you at all, even subtle converstions… then it seems okay.

It gets tricky when one leaves one denomination for another though if one is leaving a stalemate church to a more exciting church in that things are happening it easy to see why even if it is different denominations. I be shot for saying God Loves us all but He does and it don’t matter what our Christian Faith is called by name and am not entirely convinced we need any either to be honest but that is probably against Catholic Teaching and no wish to upset that as it my own particular view point but well its your call I guess.

Out of interest what does your Catholic Priest say about it, seeing that you have spoken to the Minister of the Protestant Church have you spoken to your Catholic Priest and er got his blessing as well per se

It’s none of his business.

I will say that something amusing did happen at the Protestant parish. The youth director at my Catholic parish is desperate to improve participation with families. (The best thing she could do is retire and allow someone new to take over but that’s another forum.) The Protestant parish has a great reputation for the type of stuff we are talking about so she came to observe. The Protestant pastor walked her over to me for a “Catholic perspective.” I almost fell down from suppressing laughter.

 

[Urn]

As far as I know, Vatican II didn’t overturn the Church’s teaching that it’s a sin for a Catholic to worship in a Protestant church. Have you heard otherwise?

I’ve been to observe on occasion but I don’t sing along or say “amen.” Mostly I did this as part of an agreement to get a Protestant to visit Mass in return.

This is supposed to be a serious discussion. Please stop.