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becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
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becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
Edited to add: sorry I meant tracking attendance by the envelopes.
Message edited 3/7/2016 8:25:47 AM.
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Posted 3/6/16 6:45 AM  |
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Sash
Peace
Member since 6/08 10314 total posts
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fka LIW Smara
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Hofstra26
Posted by Katareen
Posted by FirstMate
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by Katareen
Posted by BargainMama
This whole thread baffles me. If you are raising your children in the church, and by that I mean having them make their sacraments, including starting off with baptism.... why wouldn't you WANT them to go to church? Isn't that the whole entire point?
Not necessarily...yes, going to church is something you're "supposed to" do. But you're also not "supposed to" have premarital sex, use birth control, lie, be envious, etc. I think you can be a Catholic without necessarily attending mass every week.
At this point in time, not many people follow any religion to a T. They choose portions of the religion that fit them and their beliefs.
...but to complain about your children being required to go to church..especially when you have vowed to raise them in the catholic church when you got them baptised ...I dunno...weird to me! To each their own though 
No, I'm with you on this one. This is so bizarre to me. Why bother? Teach your kids what you want them to learn at home then if you feel that turned off by the Catholic church and the requirements imposed by religious education.
As far as donations go, its an organization. It needs money to operate. Is it really that burdensome to throw a buck in the basket when you go?
I don't think anyone has a problem with making a donation...it's the keeping track of the donations and the complaints when it's not enough. Meanwhile the priests are rolling around town in a Mercedes.
You also can see it from the viewpoint that I want to teach my children Catholicism and have their sacraments, however I don't always agree with what the priests have to say during their homily and their interpretation of the Bible. There is a lot of personal agenda pushed there and it's not always opinions I want my child exposed to or taught as "right".
My church actually sent home paperwork asking for donations, THOUSANDS of dollars in donations from EACH family, and included a 2,3,4, and 5 yr payment plans. Are you kidding me?!?!?! I'm sorry, I know they are an organization but that cr@p just doesn't sit right with me. I hate constantly being bombarded for money from the church, it's a bit much at times.
Did you go to church and hear what this is about??? It's a campaign to raise money and a money goes back into the local parishes for schools, churches and scholarships. My church actually gave a breakdown of what they will be using this money for. I feel like the Catholic Churches are a lot more open about where donations and money goes. We get a financial breakdown every year. And by no means were they pushy and making it obligatory in my church. My priest even said give what you can and break out in 4 years if you want or some probably won't be able to give but that's ok, they can give in prayers to raise money.
Message edited 3/6/2016 7:23:49 AM.
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| Posted 3/6/16 7:22 AM |
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Sash
Peace
Member since 6/08 10314 total posts
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fka LIW Smara
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by itsbabytime
I'm really surprised by some of the posts on this thread. I guess a lot must depend on the parish where you live. I have one child in religious ed and one attending the catholic school affiliated with my church. I have NEVER felt pressured to give at mass and if they do keep track of how much I am giving I would absolutely never know it because it is never brought up in any way shape or form. My priests do not drive Mercedes, quite the opposite. I go to mass pretty much every Sunday but, sometimes at my parish and sometimes a neighboring one (since the mass times are different depending what works). Sometimes I give, sometimes I don't but definitely not a ton either way. I was married in my church, both my kids were baptized, one child has received communion thus far, in religious ed. etc. and I have NEVER EVER felt pressure to give more.
As for mass attendance. I agree, it's a little confusing to me that people would want to be practicing catholics and send their children to religious ed. and not want to go to church ever? The only year thus far of religious ed where my child has had to attend certain masses was the year he received communion and, quite honestly I think this should be the case and if anyone wants their child to receive communion and never go to mass maybe they should re-evaluate the situation.
I agree with this and I feel like there is some exaggeration on here. But to be honest Catholic Churches always get bashed on here with no backlash, I feel like this is the only religion that is ok to judge and criticize on here.
My cousin grew up catholic did all her sacraments, a few years ago she became another version of Christianity, not sure. She goes to church believes in the same principals but they don't do the sacraments etc. her kids aren't baptized. If you don't believe in the Carholic church or what practices and teaches, then don't put your kids in Religious Instruction classes. Follow what you believe, you shouldn't feel pressured or disappointed/turned off by your church.
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| Posted 3/6/16 7:32 AM |
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lazybug
LIF Adult
Member since 3/12 1013 total posts
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by itsbabytime
I'm really surprised by some of the posts on this thread. I guess a lot must depend on the parish where you live. I have one child in religious ed and one attending the catholic school affiliated with my church. I have NEVER felt pressured to give at mass and if they do keep track of how much I am giving I would absolutely never know it because it is never brought up in any way shape or form. My priests do not drive Mercedes, quite the opposite. I go to mass pretty much every Sunday but, sometimes at my parish and sometimes a neighboring one (since the mass times are different depending what works). Sometimes I give, sometimes I don't but definitely not a ton either way. I was married in my church, both my kids were baptized, one child has received communion thus far, in religious ed. etc. and I have NEVER EVER felt pressure to give more.
As for mass attendance. I agree, it's a little confusing to me that people would want to be practicing catholics and send their children to religious ed. and not want to go to church ever? The only year thus far of religious ed where my child has had to attend certain masses was the year he received communion and, quite honestly I think this should be the case and if anyone wants their child to receive communion and never go to mass maybe they should re-evaluate the situation.
I never jump into these debate threads but I TOTALLY agree with you.
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| Posted 3/6/16 7:35 AM |
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BargainMama
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Member since 5/09 15660 total posts
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by haveaquestion
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
I'm not surprised at all. I don't know why anyone would be. You want to make a sacrament in their church, they should know if you go to church or not. It's actually quite sad that they have to resort to having things signed to prove a child was at mass. Growing up everyone went to mass. I saw all of my school friends every single Sunday. Different times I guess!
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| Posted 3/6/16 8:19 AM |
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Katareen
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Sash
Posted by Hofstra26
Posted by Katareen
Posted by FirstMate
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by Katareen
Posted by BargainMama
This whole thread baffles me. If you are raising your children in the church, and by that I mean having them make their sacraments, including starting off with baptism.... why wouldn't you WANT them to go to church? Isn't that the whole entire point?
Not necessarily...yes, going to church is something you're "supposed to" do. But you're also not "supposed to" have premarital sex, use birth control, lie, be envious, etc. I think you can be a Catholic without necessarily attending mass every week.
At this point in time, not many people follow any religion to a T. They choose portions of the religion that fit them and their beliefs.
...but to complain about your children being required to go to church..especially when you have vowed to raise them in the catholic church when you got them baptised ...I dunno...weird to me! To each their own though
No, I'm with you on this one. This is so bizarre to me. Why bother? Teach your kids what you want them to learn at home then if you feel that turned off by the Catholic church and the requirements imposed by religious education.
As far as donations go, its an organization. It needs money to operate. Is it really that burdensome to throw a buck in the basket when you go?
I don't think anyone has a problem with making a donation...it's the keeping track of the donations and the complaints when it's not enough. Meanwhile the priests are rolling around town in a Mercedes.
You also can see it from the viewpoint that I want to teach my children Catholicism and have their sacraments, however I don't always agree with what the priests have to say during their homily and their interpretation of the Bible. There is a lot of personal agenda pushed there and it's not always opinions I want my child exposed to or taught as "right".
My church actually sent home paperwork asking for donations, THOUSANDS of dollars in donations from EACH family, and included a 2,3,4, and 5 yr payment plans. Are you kidding me?!?!?! I'm sorry, I know they are an organization but that cr@p just doesn't sit right with me. I hate constantly being bombarded for money from the church, it's a bit much at times.
Did you go to church and hear what this is about??? It's a campaign to raise money and a money goes back into the local parishes for schools, churches and scholarships. My church actually gave a breakdown of what they will be using this money for. I feel like the Catholic Churches are a lot more open about where donations and money goes. We get a financial breakdown every year. And by no means were they pushy and making it obligatory in my church. My priest even said give what you can and break out in 4 years if you want or some probably won't be able to give but that's ok, they can give in prayers to raise money.
Yes, they may have a plan laid out for how the money will be spent, but because they're a religious organization they are under no obligation to expose how the money was actually used. Their financials do not have to be publicly disclosed by law.
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| Posted 3/6/16 8:19 AM |
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gina409
TWINS!
Member since 12/09 27635 total posts
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g
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Sash
Posted by itsbabytime
I'm really surprised by some of the posts on this thread. I guess a lot must depend on the parish where you live. I have one child in religious ed and one attending the catholic school affiliated with my church. I have NEVER felt pressured to give at mass and if they do keep track of how much I am giving I would absolutely never know it because it is never brought up in any way shape or form. My priests do not drive Mercedes, quite the opposite. I go to mass pretty much every Sunday but, sometimes at my parish and sometimes a neighboring one (since the mass times are different depending what works). Sometimes I give, sometimes I don't but definitely not a ton either way. I was married in my church, both my kids were baptized, one child has received communion thus far, in religious ed. etc. and I have NEVER EVER felt pressure to give more.
As for mass attendance. I agree, it's a little confusing to me that people would want to be practicing catholics and send their children to religious ed. and not want to go to church ever? The only year thus far of religious ed where my child has had to attend certain masses was the year he received communion and, quite honestly I think this should be the case and if anyone wants their child to receive communion and never go to mass maybe they should re-evaluate the situation.
I agree with this and I feel like there is some exaggeration on here. But to be honest Catholic Churches always get bashed on here with no backlash, I feel like this is the only religion that is ok to judge and criticize on here.
My cousin grew up catholic did all her sacraments, a few years ago she became another version of Christianity, not sure. She goes to church believes in the same principals but they don't do the sacraments etc. her kids aren't baptized. If you don't believe in the Carholic church or what practices and teaches, then don't put your kids in Religious Instruction classes. Follow what you believe, you shouldn't feel pressured or disappointed/turned off by your church.
This. I usually stay away from these posts bc the church always gets bashed and it's just "ok to do"
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| Posted 3/6/16 9:43 AM |
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ElizaRags35
My 2 Girls
Member since 2/09 20494 total posts
Name:
Me
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by EatingMyVeggies
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by Katareen
Posted by BargainMama
This whole thread baffles me. If you are raising your children in the church, and by that I mean having them make their sacraments, including starting off with baptism.... why wouldn't you WANT them to go to church? Isn't that the whole entire point?
Not necessarily...yes, going to church is something you're "supposed to" do. But you're also not "supposed to" have premarital sex, use birth control, lie, be envious, etc. I think you can be a Catholic without necessarily attending mass every week.
At this point in time, not many people follow any religion to a T. They choose portions of the religion that fit them and their beliefs.
...but to complain about your children being required to go to church..especially when you have vowed to raise them in the catholic church when you got them baptised ...I dunno...weird to me! To each their own though
I'm with you. I don't care what people do, doesn't bug me either way.
But even like all the people I know who have expensive, elaborate baptisms - spending hundreds on the outfit, hiring a photographer, inviting everyone they know, everyone gifting tons of money...and then they never foot step in church unless someone gets married or someone dies. Not on Sunday's, not on holidays, nada. Marriage or deaths. That's it. I know very few who attend regularly (meaning every Sunday or at least once a month).
It's almost like it's done for a culture aspect or social aspect, not a religious one. I think that's modern times for you. I've asked some (some were close friends so I could feel comfy asking) and they just stared blankly and said that's just what they were supposed to do for the tradition of it. It was like they didn't even think about it, it's just what they all do automatically. (Meaning I asked my "sinner friends"  how they reconciled going all out for a baptism when they don't go to church now or plan to go at all after)
I guess people do what works for them. It just seems a slippery slope. Friends who had to do pre Cana but had to lie through their teeth - saying they never had sex before, lying to the priest etc.. Rolling their eyes that they had to pay all this money for a class.. But they didn't even go to church once together before, but they desired the religious component for their wedding. I knew one who picked a church because it was gothic looking and fit the look she was going for. It's just odd to me. I'm not speaking to the people who follow things, but those who do it in another fashion. Something I never understood. I just think of religion is something you want in your life, you have to do the things you're supposed to do, and try to do them to the best of your ability, like anything else in life.
I agree with a lot of this. It's like if you are a person who considers themselves or their family has been religious, it's just expected to follow tradition. Obviously this doesn't go for everyone but it has definitely occurred in my life.
It's no secret that I do not like organized religion but DH insisted we get married in a church to appease his parents (whose last time in a church was my wedding 6.5 years ago). I reluctantly agreed and have regretted it since. My ceremony was so impersonal. We had to use the church's music, their readings. As an extremely non religious person who mostly considers themselves an atheist, it had little meaning to me, which is sad to think about.
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| Posted 3/6/16 10:15 AM |
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Katareen
5,000 Posts!
Member since 4/10 7180 total posts
Name:
Katherine
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Sash
Posted by itsbabytime
I'm really surprised by some of the posts on this thread. I guess a lot must depend on the parish where you live. I have one child in religious ed and one attending the catholic school affiliated with my church. I have NEVER felt pressured to give at mass and if they do keep track of how much I am giving I would absolutely never know it because it is never brought up in any way shape or form. My priests do not drive Mercedes, quite the opposite. I go to mass pretty much every Sunday but, sometimes at my parish and sometimes a neighboring one (since the mass times are different depending what works). Sometimes I give, sometimes I don't but definitely not a ton either way. I was married in my church, both my kids were baptized, one child has received communion thus far, in religious ed. etc. and I have NEVER EVER felt pressure to give more.
As for mass attendance. I agree, it's a little confusing to me that people would want to be practicing catholics and send their children to religious ed. and not want to go to church ever? The only year thus far of religious ed where my child has had to attend certain masses was the year he received communion and, quite honestly I think this should be the case and if anyone wants their child to receive communion and never go to mass maybe they should re-evaluate the situation.
I agree with this and I feel like there is some exaggeration on here. But to be honest Catholic Churches always get bashed on here with no backlash, I feel like this is the only religion that is ok to judge and criticize on here.
My cousin grew up catholic did all her sacraments, a few years ago she became another version of Christianity, not sure. She goes to church believes in the same principals but they don't do the sacraments etc. her kids aren't baptized. If you don't believe in the Carholic church or what practices and teaches, then don't put your kids in Religious Instruction classes. Follow what you believe, you shouldn't feel pressured or disappointed/turned off by your church.
But I think you CAN believe in the roots of Catholocism and the Bible without agreeing with some of the more modern sentiments such as their stance on homosexuality or IVF.
Yes, I want my children to be baptized and I want them to receive their sacraments...but I want them to be taught that Jesus is accepting and loving of everyone.
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| Posted 3/6/16 10:44 AM |
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Sash
Peace
Member since 6/08 10314 total posts
Name:
fka LIW Smara
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Katareen
Posted by Sash
Posted by itsbabytime
I'm really surprised by some of the posts on this thread. I guess a lot must depend on the parish where you live. I have one child in religious ed and one attending the catholic school affiliated with my church. I have NEVER felt pressured to give at mass and if they do keep track of how much I am giving I would absolutely never know it because it is never brought up in any way shape or form. My priests do not drive Mercedes, quite the opposite. I go to mass pretty much every Sunday but, sometimes at my parish and sometimes a neighboring one (since the mass times are different depending what works). Sometimes I give, sometimes I don't but definitely not a ton either way. I was married in my church, both my kids were baptized, one child has received communion thus far, in religious ed. etc. and I have NEVER EVER felt pressure to give more.
As for mass attendance. I agree, it's a little confusing to me that people would want to be practicing catholics and send their children to religious ed. and not want to go to church ever? The only year thus far of religious ed where my child has had to attend certain masses was the year he received communion and, quite honestly I think this should be the case and if anyone wants their child to receive communion and never go to mass maybe they should re-evaluate the situation.
I agree with this and I feel like there is some exaggeration on here. But to be honest Catholic Churches always get bashed on here with no backlash, I feel like this is the only religion that is ok to judge and criticize on here.
My cousin grew up catholic did all her sacraments, a few years ago she became another version of Christianity, not sure. She goes to church believes in the same principals but they don't do the sacraments etc. her kids aren't baptized. If you don't believe in the Carholic church or what practices and teaches, then don't put your kids in Religious Instruction classes. Follow what you believe, you shouldn't feel pressured or disappointed/turned off by your church.
But I think you CAN believe in the roots of Catholocism and the Bible without agreeing with some of the more modern sentiments such as their stance on homosexuality or IVF.
Yes, I want my children to be baptized and I want them to receive their sacraments...but I want them to be taught that Jesus is accepting and loving of everyone.
But we aren't talking about what the churches stances are on our world. We are talking about the outrage that people have to donate to the church or are upset that their kid in religious education has to attend mass, the horror. I'm sorry but in CCD classes they do not teach kids that homosexuality is wrong or about IVF or birth control. No where is this subject touched even in Catholic school.
Actually my priest had a sermon several years ago addressing homsexualoty. Stating it's not our job to judge and condemn anyone. We should love all gods children regard less of homosexuality because God loves all his children. I feel like your last statement is biased and not accurate.
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| Posted 3/6/16 11:26 AM |
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Hofstra26
Love to Bake!
Member since 7/06 27915 total posts
Name:
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Sash
Posted by Hofstra26
Posted by Katareen
Posted by FirstMate
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by Katareen
Posted by BargainMama
This whole thread baffles me. If you are raising your children in the church, and by that I mean having them make their sacraments, including starting off with baptism.... why wouldn't you WANT them to go to church? Isn't that the whole entire point?
Not necessarily...yes, going to church is something you're "supposed to" do. But you're also not "supposed to" have premarital sex, use birth control, lie, be envious, etc. I think you can be a Catholic without necessarily attending mass every week.
At this point in time, not many people follow any religion to a T. They choose portions of the religion that fit them and their beliefs.
...but to complain about your children being required to go to church..especially when you have vowed to raise them in the catholic church when you got them baptised ...I dunno...weird to me! To each their own though
No, I'm with you on this one. This is so bizarre to me. Why bother? Teach your kids what you want them to learn at home then if you feel that turned off by the Catholic church and the requirements imposed by religious education.
As far as donations go, its an organization. It needs money to operate. Is it really that burdensome to throw a buck in the basket when you go?
I don't think anyone has a problem with making a donation...it's the keeping track of the donations and the complaints when it's not enough. Meanwhile the priests are rolling around town in a Mercedes.
You also can see it from the viewpoint that I want to teach my children Catholicism and have their sacraments, however I don't always agree with what the priests have to say during their homily and their interpretation of the Bible. There is a lot of personal agenda pushed there and it's not always opinions I want my child exposed to or taught as "right".
My church actually sent home paperwork asking for donations, THOUSANDS of dollars in donations from EACH family, and included a 2,3,4, and 5 yr payment plans. Are you kidding me?!?!?! I'm sorry, I know they are an organization but that cr@p just doesn't sit right with me. I hate constantly being bombarded for money from the church, it's a bit much at times.
Did you go to church and hear what this is about??? It's a campaign to raise money and a money goes back into the local parishes for schools, churches and scholarships. My church actually gave a breakdown of what they will be using this money for. I feel like the Catholic Churches are a lot more open about where donations and money goes. We get a financial breakdown every year. And by no means were they pushy and making it obligatory in my church. My priest even said give what you can and break out in 4 years if you want or some probably won't be able to give but that's ok, they can give in prayers to raise money.
It doesn't matter much to me what the money is used for, I'm sure it's all worthwhile, I just hate the million mailings of envelopes, asking for auto deductions from our paycheck, and asking us to finance LARGE sum donations. Back in the day my parents threw a few bucks (at their discretion) in a basket when we were at church. I don't why it's gotten so pushy with the money, I just find it off putting.
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| Posted 3/6/16 11:41 AM |
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Katareen
5,000 Posts!
Member since 4/10 7180 total posts
Name:
Katherine
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Sash
Posted by Katareen
Posted by Sash
Posted by itsbabytime
I'm really surprised by some of the posts on this thread. I guess a lot must depend on the parish where you live. I have one child in religious ed and one attending the catholic school affiliated with my church. I have NEVER felt pressured to give at mass and if they do keep track of how much I am giving I would absolutely never know it because it is never brought up in any way shape or form. My priests do not drive Mercedes, quite the opposite. I go to mass pretty much every Sunday but, sometimes at my parish and sometimes a neighboring one (since the mass times are different depending what works). Sometimes I give, sometimes I don't but definitely not a ton either way. I was married in my church, both my kids were baptized, one child has received communion thus far, in religious ed. etc. and I have NEVER EVER felt pressure to give more.
As for mass attendance. I agree, it's a little confusing to me that people would want to be practicing catholics and send their children to religious ed. and not want to go to church ever? The only year thus far of religious ed where my child has had to attend certain masses was the year he received communion and, quite honestly I think this should be the case and if anyone wants their child to receive communion and never go to mass maybe they should re-evaluate the situation.
I agree with this and I feel like there is some exaggeration on here. But to be honest Catholic Churches always get bashed on here with no backlash, I feel like this is the only religion that is ok to judge and criticize on here.
My cousin grew up catholic did all her sacraments, a few years ago she became another version of Christianity, not sure. She goes to church believes in the same principals but they don't do the sacraments etc. her kids aren't baptized. If you don't believe in the Carholic church or what practices and teaches, then don't put your kids in Religious Instruction classes. Follow what you believe, you shouldn't feel pressured or disappointed/turned off by your church.
But I think you CAN believe in the roots of Catholocism and the Bible without agreeing with some of the more modern sentiments such as their stance on homosexuality or IVF.
Yes, I want my children to be baptized and I want them to receive their sacraments...but I want them to be taught that Jesus is accepting and loving of everyone.
But we aren't talking about what the churches stances are on our world. We are talking about the outrage that people have to donate to the church or are upset that their kid in religious education has to attend mass, the horror. I'm sorry but in CCD classes they do not teach kids that homosexuality is wrong or about IVF or birth control. No where is this subject touched even in Catholic school.
Actually my priest had a sermon several years ago addressing homsexualoty. Stating it's not our job to judge and condemn anyone. We should love all gods children regard less of homosexuality because God loves all his children. I feel like your last statement is biased and not accurate.
Exactly, they DON'T teach that at CCD which is why I'm comfortable sending my children to those classes to learn about their religion and recieve their sacraments.
However, at least in my church, these social topics are often covered during the homily and I do not feel comfortable exposing my children to the priest's personal viewpoint. Your example was perfect, because for every priest that does have an open-minded stance on sexuality, there is another who will openly condemn it.
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| Posted 3/6/16 1:11 PM |
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Pumpkin1
LIF Adult
Member since 12/05 3715 total posts
Name:
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by Sash
I'm sorry but in CCD classes they do not teach kids that homosexuality is wrong or about IVF or birth control. No where is this subject touched even in Catholic school.
That's not exactly true, some of these controversial topics are addressed in CCD. My 9 year old daughter learned about adultery in CCD a few weeks ago and her teacher also told her that sometimes mommies take medicine to kill their babies.  I had to do some reteaching after that class and, if the teacher wasn't a friend of mine, I probably would have addressed it with the church directly because I don't think either topic was appropriate for 9 year olds.
Message edited 3/6/2016 7:18:57 PM.
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| Posted 3/6/16 1:29 PM |
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by haveaquestion
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
I'm not surprised at all. I don't know why anyone would be. You want to make a sacrament in their church, they should know if you go to church or not. It's actually quite sad that they have to resort to having things signed to prove a child was at mass. Growing up everyone went to mass. I saw all of my school friends every single Sunday. Different times I guess!
Our parish makes the kids do mass journals but they are not required to go weekly. They are not tracking their attendance by donation envelopes. It is sad that people make a huge deal about christenings and first communions, and never attend mass.
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| Posted 3/6/16 5:14 PM |
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MrsBumbleb
it's me
Member since 5/05 11234 total posts
Name:
Christine
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Why do religious education then? What's the importance of Sacraments to you?
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| Posted 3/6/16 5:47 PM |
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JennP
LIF Adult
Member since 10/06 3986 total posts
Name:
Jenn
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by haveaquestion
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
I'm not surprised at all. I don't know why anyone would be.
Because every parish is different.
For many, if not most of us, our first exposure to the workings of a parish other than the one we grew up in is the one we raise our children in. If someone didn't grow up with that, it's logical to be surprised.
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| Posted 3/6/16 11:07 PM |
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sfp0701
Liam's Mommy!
Member since 1/07 9764 total posts
Name:
Tricia
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
The diocese of Rockville centre requires the kids go once a month. They have to fill out an attendance form. I think once a month is more than a lot of people go. So I wouldn't worry. And yes for Catholic school they track envelopes. They have rules about either donating a particular amount of money or time to the church through volunteer activities as part of your tuition. I don't think they track each family and remember the family names as they walk out of church. They could look though if you need a letter for a baptism. And yeah.. they know people give cash. But, the reason for the envelopes is not track who goes to church. It's so you can request a tax statement for your donations at tax time.
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| Posted 3/7/16 7:00 AM |
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sfp0701
Liam's Mommy!
Member since 1/07 9764 total posts
Name:
Tricia
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by JennP
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by haveaquestion
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
I'm not surprised at all. I don't know why anyone would be.
Because every parish is different.
For many, if not most of us, our first exposure to the workings of a parish other than the one we grew up in is the one we raise our children in. If someone didn't grow up with that, it's logical to be surprised.
As someone stated above.. I imagine that churches started tracking attendance because people stopped going to church and lying about it. If you want your child to receive sacraments.. go to church. Find a church with a children's mass. We have one every week and the children go onto the altar and the priest tells them to love Jesus and listen to your Mommy and Daddy. It's perfect and sweet.
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| Posted 3/7/16 7:16 AM |
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summerBaby10
let's be nice
Member since 9/07 10208 total posts
Name:
Wifey
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Thank you to those who gave me insight as to what their parish does. I have had a lot of religious education in my past & follow my religion as best as a can. I will admit that I can make more of an attempt in bringing my kids though so they can have a similar experience. This post got lost somewhere along the way & some of the comments are pretty rude & hurtful. Questioning if my religion is important to me & why bother. Really? It seems like going to mass every week isn't a guarantee to being a kind and thoughtful person. Attending every week doesn't make you a better Christian if you don't set that good example through words and actions.
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| Posted 3/7/16 7:38 AM |
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bunnyluck
LIF Adult
Member since 1/14 3196 total posts
Name:
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becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
My only thought on this topic is that it's not really fair to the children to deny them their sacraments because their parents do not take them to church. As a Catholic, I don't stand for that and would not support a parish that penalized children for the "faults" of their parents.
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| Posted 3/7/16 7:50 AM |
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bunnyluck
LIF Adult
Member since 1/14 3196 total posts
Name:
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by summerBaby10
Thank you to those who gave me insight as to what their parish does. I have had a lot of religious education in my past & follow my religion as best as a can. I will admit that I can make more of an attempt in bringing my kids though so they can have a similar experience. This post got lost somewhere along the way & some of the comments are pretty rude & hurtful. Questioning if my religion is important to me & why bother. Really? It seems like going to mass every week isn't a guarantee to being a kind and thoughtful person. Attending every week doesn't make you a better Christian if you don't set that good example through words and actions.
Yes, practicing Catholic does not equal good Catholic.
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| Posted 3/7/16 7:51 AM |
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by sfp0701
Posted by JennP
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by haveaquestion
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
I'm not surprised at all. I don't know why anyone would be.
Because every parish is different.
For many, if not most of us, our first exposure to the workings of a parish other than the one we grew up in is the one we raise our children in. If someone didn't grow up with that, it's logical to be surprised.
As someone stated above.. I imagine that churches started tracking attendance because people stopped going to church and lying about it. If you want your child to receive sacraments.. go to church. Find a church with a children's mass. We have one every week and the children go onto the altar and the priest tells them to love Jesus and listen to your Mommy and Daddy. It's perfect and sweet.
I reread the response I originally wrote. I meant tracking attendance by envelopes. i knew they did for the Catholic school kids. Sorry for the confusion.
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| Posted 3/7/16 7:53 AM |
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BargainMama
LIF Adult
Member since 5/09 15660 total posts
Name:
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by sfp0701
Posted by JennP
Posted by BargainMama
Posted by haveaquestion
I'm surprised they are tracking attendance for the kids in religion. A lot of families are registered and don't go to mass every week. As the kids get older they have to registered in the parish to participate in some cyo sports.
I'm not surprised at all. I don't know why anyone would be.
Because every parish is different.
For many, if not most of us, our first exposure to the workings of a parish other than the one we grew up in is the one we raise our children in. If someone didn't grow up with that, it's logical to be surprised.
As someone stated above.. I imagine that churches started tracking attendance because people stopped going to church and lying about it. If you want your child to receive sacraments.. go to church. Find a church with a children's mass. We have one every week and the children go onto the altar and the priest tells them to love Jesus and listen to your Mommy and Daddy. It's perfect and sweet.
Exactly
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| Posted 3/7/16 8:16 AM |
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busymomonli
Resident Insomniac
Member since 4/13 2053 total posts
Name:
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becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
My parish does encourage kids and their families to go to mass at least once a month. Do I always make it? No. But they do keep track of the envelopes and they mention them in class in an effort to guilt the kids into asking parents to go.
They do talk about pre-marital sex, abstinence, sexuality. One week they told the kids that wearing those sweats that say things on the butt was inviting sin.
We don't attend mass regularly. I try to teach my kids that God loves them whether they attend or not, so long as they pray and live a moral life. Sometimes, its just too hard. Weekend are our only time off and things get in the way, sports, parties, etc.
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| Posted 3/7/16 8:25 AM |
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Hofstra26
Love to Bake!
Member since 7/06 27915 total posts
Name:
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Re: becoming a parishoner when you rarely go to mass?
Posted by MrsBumbleb
Why do religious education then? What's the importance of Sacraments to you?
I'm not religious and not really a practicing Catholic............and I am OKAY with that, it's just who I am. After MUCH thought I really didn't want to bother putting my children through religious education because I felt like if we weren't practicing Catholics it seemed kind of silly to send them. However, DH, although not religious either, felt it was important they at least be exposed since we are *technically* Catholic and then down the road they will have some foundation from which they can then make their own decisions about their religion. I understood his point, agreed with him, and we sent our DD to religious ed. We look at religious ed as just another form of "educating" our kids regardless of how we do or don't practice Catholicism.
My DD is making her communion this year and she knows her prayers and is learning about the Catholic religion and we support her and answer any questions she has along the way. She's asked why we don't go to church and we're honest with her..............we tell her that Mommy and Daddy are not very religious and that we feel being a good person (or Catholic) doesn't mean sitting in a pew every week. We teach her that you need to be kind, compassionate, understanding, and a good person ALL of the time and THAT is what makes you a good Catholic. We've also explained that going to religious ed is no different than going to school, it's just another form of education which helps you to learn and grow as a person.
I understand why more religious, practicing Catholics wouldn't get why you'd put your child in religious ed and NOT go to church which is why I responded. IMO, no matter how religious you are OR aren't religion is VERY personal and people can be spiritual, religious, and practice in their own ways. That is why I would be bothered by the church "tracking" my attendance. Sitting in church is a VERY small part of what makes someone a good Catholic and a good person and whether I take my kids to church or not is NOBODY'S business except my own. It's just that simple. The fact that some people think they are "better" than others because they go to church OR can't understand that people have varying levels of belief, faith, and practice within their own religion is EXACTLY part of the reason why I dislike organized religion in the first place.
Sadly, in MY experience, I've run into many "very religious, church going, practicing Catholics" who are some of the most obnoxious, meanest, most selfish people I've ever met. I guess it's good they go to church though, God can cleanse their rotten souls every Sunday. At least I'm honest about my feelings and views on religion and do my best to be a good, kind person and raise my kids the same despite not taking them to church every week.
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| Posted 3/7/16 8:38 AM |
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