Student orientation a violation of Sunday rest?

[Colorad007]

I’m a student studying abroad this summer, and orientation is scheduled for a Sunday. As a matter of Sunday observance, I do not spend money or do any studying on Sundays, and I try to really maintain the day as one that is strictly for faith observances, family time (I’m married), or just reading/enjoyment/etc. I recognize that is probably a little bit beyond what is strictly necessary for a Catholic, but it’s what we do.

If the orientation is primarily a “briefing” of the month ahead, meeting with professors and other students, etc., without any real “school work,” strictly defined, is it okay to go to the orientation or should I ask for an exemption?

I don’t feel good about going, but I’m scrupulous so I can’t exactly trust my moral instinct.

Thanks.

 

[Mrs_Sally]

It sounds like a perfectly fine activiy to do on a Sunday. Think of it as a social event - getting to know your professors and fellow students – rather than as work. Also, asking for an exeption for a religious reason, when the CC does not teach total Sunday rest a la the traditional Jewish Sabbath, would be misrepresenting your religion and might very well start off your time abroad on the wrong foot.

 

[Joe_5859]

It is not immoral for you to attend the student orientation.

It’s probably not something you would choose to do, but I wouldn’t call it “work.”

 

[1ke]

I recognize that is probably a little bit beyond what is strictly necessary for a Catholic but it’s what we do.

A little? Neither of these things is necessary. It is certainly your perogative to do as you believe best on Sunday, but do not couch it as required by the Church.

If the orientation is primarily a “briefing” of the month ahead, meeting with professors and other students, etc., without any real “school work,” strictly defined, is it okay to go to the orientation or should I ask for an exemption?

Yes it is fine, and no you do not need to ask for an exemption.

I don’t feel good about going, but I’m scrupulous so I can’t exactly trust my moral instinct.

PLEASE get help for your scrupulosity from a trained spiritual director. You need REGULAR guidance from one person, not random replies on the internet that you are quite likely to second guess endlessly.

GET HELP.

 

[JoArtist]

It is fine to got to the orientation on a Sunday. It isn’t work and I think you are being too scrupulous. I agree with the above post that you need help from a spiritual director with you issues.

 

[Catholic90]

It is fine to got to the orientation on a Sunday. It isn’t work and I think you are being too scrupulous. I agree with the above post that you need help from a spiritual director with you issues.

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