QUESTION: What exactly is the seal of the confessional?
I've heard a priest describe a sin, and say that they weren't willing to absolve it. Isn't that something to be kept private?
Answer: The seal of confession is:
Can. 983 §1 The sacramental seal is inviolable. Accordingly, it is absolutely wrong for a confessor in any way to betray the penitent, for any reason whatsoever, whether by word or in any other fashion. (Code of Cannon Law)
It is hard to comment further without the facts but if the priest was stating a general instance that he couldn't forgive the sin, then there is nothing wrong with that. Especially, if he is using it to educate others on how to better form their lives to Christ.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
How Does RCIA work?
QUESTION: Exactly how does the RCIA process work for someone who wants to convert to Catholicism who has never been baptised in any faith? Is it too late to start the classes? If we complete the class at St. Ignatius, do we have to join that church? Can a non-Catholic attend Mass while in the process of converting? Will I know what to do if I've never attended a Mass? Do I receive communion?
Answer: The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) program is set up as a series of classes that teach the truths and beliefs of the Catholic Faith. The goal of the processes is to teach the person What and Who the Catholic Church is and what she believes so that the person can be fully informed in their decision to become catholic or not. If one wants to become Catholic after learning about the faith they are welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil (Sat night) by receiving the Sacraments. If the person has never had a christian baptism, they are baptised, then receive First Reconciliation, Confirmation, and First Eucharist. A non-catholic can attend Mass but should not receive Holy Communion because they are not yet in Communion with the Church. It is not too late to join RCIA but you should join a program at the Church you would like to belong to. I hope this helps. If you have anymore questions please email me at tobina@stignatius.org
Answer: The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) program is set up as a series of classes that teach the truths and beliefs of the Catholic Faith. The goal of the processes is to teach the person What and Who the Catholic Church is and what she believes so that the person can be fully informed in their decision to become catholic or not. If one wants to become Catholic after learning about the faith they are welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil (Sat night) by receiving the Sacraments. If the person has never had a christian baptism, they are baptised, then receive First Reconciliation, Confirmation, and First Eucharist. A non-catholic can attend Mass but should not receive Holy Communion because they are not yet in Communion with the Church. It is not too late to join RCIA but you should join a program at the Church you would like to belong to. I hope this helps. If you have anymore questions please email me at tobina@stignatius.org
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