What are we obligated to do?

[Stac4Grace]

If there are some friends or family members we know that are Catholic but have fallen away from the church for one reason or another and we see them doing things that are morally wrong like drinking excessively, using birth control, never attending Mass, pre-marital relations…Should we bring this up to them is it our obligation. If so, how should we go about it without offending them? Thank you for your help!

 

[Chris_Jacobsen]

If you bring it up to them, they will be offended. They may have been raised Catholics, but they are no longer interested.

The best thing you can do is pray for them, accept them as they are, and compliment them when they are doing something good, etc.

 

[safety14]

Yes, you should bring it up to them. And yes they may be offended. Our Lord said the Gospel is a double edged sword and sometimes it’s a cause for separation. But you have to understand that by not saying anything your not helping them. And sometimes charity demands you speak out. No you don’t have to harp on them. But you should stand up. You also need to watch yourself. Don’t let them place you in an occasion of sin.

 

[rayne89]

First of all I would set a good example. I would look for opportunities to bring it up in conversation without trying to sound like your condemning them.

Like “You know we’ve found that NFP is the best kept secret of the Catholic Church. Did you know something like 97% of couples who use NFP don’t divorce and it’s so much better than the pill (or what ever other contraceptive they maybe using). It’s not the old rhythm method, it’s very scientific now -as accurate as the pill ect.”

Or “You know I don’t know how people get through all the trials of life without faith to sustain them. I get so much strength from going to Mass everyweek. It gives me such a peace in this chaotic world.” If you feel you’ve open a door you could even invite them to come with you sometime.

I would accentuate the postive things about the faith. I doubt the “You going to hell if you don’t change” type statement would do anything than offend them and write you off as a religious nut. (not that you are but people who have fallen away would tend to take that perspective).

And ofcourse pray,pray,pray. I pray that God place someone in the lives of the people in my life who have fallen away or who never really experience faith who can reach them. Sometimes it’s hardest to hear the truth from the people closest to you.

 

[Stac4Grace]

Thank you all for the suggestions I will pray about it and hope for the best when these situations arise!

 

[Annunciata]

safety14:

Yes, you should bring it up to them. And yes they may be offended. Our Lord said the Gospel is a double edged sword and sometimes it’s a cause for separation. But you have to understand that by not saying anything your not helping them. And sometimes charity demands you speak out. No you don’t have to harp on them. But you should stand up. You also need to watch yourself. Don’t let them place you in an occasion of sin.

Nicely put! In other words Fraternal Correction…
Annunciata