Why are RCIA candidates asked to leave?

[ericmatthews]

this is strange because when i was in RCIA i was never asked to leave during Mass nor were any of the other members we were just not allowed to take commionuion but we stayed for the whole Mass

 

[Capt_Trips]

All the simple answers have been given already, and all are historically true.

From a much more mystical or theological point of view,

If you cannot commune you are being forced to actively deny Jesus: It is an abjection of the sacred species just the same as if you communed unlawfully.

I.e. to not commune at mass is a mortal sin, and so is communing outside of a state of actual sanctifying grace.

Then again, I was raised by old fuddy-duddies who also taught me, To not say hello to someone is a mortal sin.

Enjoy the free thought folks.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

All the simple answers have been given already, and all are historically true.

From a much more mystical or theological point of view,

If you cannot commune you are being forced to actively deny Jesus: It is an abjection of the sacred species just the same as if you communed unlawfully.

I.e. to not commune at mass is a mortal sin, and so is communing outside of a state of actual sanctifying grace.

Then again, I was raised by old fuddy-duddies who also taught me, To not say hello to someone is a mortal sin.

Enjoy the free thought folks.

To not receive Holy Communion at Mass even when you can, is NOT a mortal sin.
Re-stating only Catechumens (those not Baptized) are asked to leave, with a Catechist to discuss the Scripture readings. Candidates should never be dismissed.

 

[Corki]

I was a bapitzed Christian when I joined RCIA, though I had not been practicing Christianity for about 5 years.

In my parish, we were required to attend Breaking Open the Word every Sunday from October through Easter. We started breaking open the word after the Rite of Welcoming in October. And yes, candidates as well as the cathechumen were dismissed after the homily, even though the rite says baptized Christians should stay and participate in the mass.

We were required to come each Sunday or call the RCIA director** with a valid excuse for not being there**

How about a note that says that due to your religion, you were required to attend services? (It works for a school/work excuse. )

I know this thread is old but I couldn’t resist.

 

[paperwight]

I didn’t read the entire thread but just so you know, not all churches make the candidates & catechumens leave. Our parish does not. I personally think it is more beneficial to stay the entire time. But I’m not the boss!!

I agree with you. Our parish doesn’t single them out like this, either. I can also see that making people leave could be a problem if they are a parent there with a young family, and so have to leave the other parent to cope with the children.

Not an insurmountable problem, I know, but perhaps unfair, nonetheless.