Expert: Charlie B - 4/7/2011

Question
Hi.  I was raised Methodist, married a Catholic, sending our grandchildren to Catholic school.  I am very active in the school, volunteering, raising money, etc.  At the recommendation of a teacher, I have been attending school mass with the kids, sit with the youngest, currently a Kindergartner.  I sing, sit, kneel, pray, feel very blessed by the service.  My Mother always taught us to receive communion at any church we were in when we felt the presence of God.  So, I have often taken communion when I attend a Catholic mass.  Am now beginning to wonder if I should?  Am I offending any one, like the priest or parishioners who do know that I am a protestant?  Or was Mom right, and it is between me and God?

Answer
Rhoda,
Thanks for your question.  I have two answers for you -- one realistic, one technical.

Like you, I was raised United Methodist.  In 1986, I married by wife (Catholic) in a Catholic church, and preceded to take communion every Sunday at Mass until I converted in 1995.  No one ever said a word to me, and perhaps they should have -- but for God's grace and pastor's kindness, it never came up.... and I'm thankful for that blessing, though I didn't really deserve it.

Technically, you shouldn't be taking Communion, but cross your hands on your shoulders, and receive a blessing.   That's the technically correct answer to your question.   Yes, you may be offending some people -- that's your decision.

I would advise that you investigate becoming Catholic, just for the heck of it.  You may find as I did that there's not much of a leap at all in becoming Catholic.  In fact, it's the best decision that I ever made.  

It's always between you and God, and it's always between God and His Church.  That I cannot discern for you, but will encourage you to think about joining the Church, and receiving FULL Communion with Him, our Lord Jesus Christ.  

Thanks again for your question, and I hope this helps you.  Do take a look at www.lighthousecatholicmedia.org and invest $5 in their CD of the Month Club, and I promise you this will help you regardless of your final outcome & decision.
God bless,
Charlie

PS - evaluations are appreciated!