I’ve relocated a lot over the years and, although I go to Mass regularly, I haven’t joined a parish. Do I need to join a parish to be considered a practicing Catholic by the Vatican?
No, but you may need to join a parish to be considered a practicing Catholic by your parish. Establishing your status as a practicing Catholic in the eyes of a parish would be important if you want to marry or if you are asked to be a sponsor at a baptism or confirmation.
DISCLAIMER: Catholic Answers has turned over the archive to Catholic-Questions.org and no longer owns, manages, or moderates the forums. For additional apologetics resources please visit www.catholic.com.