conversion QUESTION from David Glasgow April 12, 2000 I am 23 years old, and come from a Catholic family. However, for one reason or another, it kind of stopped with my mom. I have always been taught a strong belief in God, but I feel the need to become a true Catholic now. I am familiar with the RCIA process, yet haven't talked to a priest just yet. However, I have attended 3 liturgies (consecutive) so far, and the need to convert is becoming stronger and stronger. My question is, what kind of participation should I be taking in liturgy (i.e. making the sign of the cross, holy water, etc.). I guess I just don't know to what degree I'm allowed to participate. I realize that the sacrament of communion is for confirmed Catholics, but there are a lot of other things that take place in Mass. I'd appreciate any guidance.
ANSWER by John-Paul Ignatius, O.L.S.M. on April 17, 2000 Dear Mr. Glasgow:
Congratulations and praise God for your decision to become Catholic.
I understand the wait to be able to receive the Eucharist. I am a convert too and thought I couldn't wait until the Easter Vigil when I could receive Eucharist for the first time.
But it is worth the wait!
As far as what you can do, you can and should do everything (except receive the Eucharist).
You should be getting use to practicing Catholic devotions and lifestyle. The only thing you can't do until you are confirmed in the Catholic Church is partake of the Sacraments.
Everything else you can do: say rosaries, make the sign of the cross before your eat, perform all liturgical gestures during Mass, go to adoration of the blessed Sacrament, etc. etc.
Partake and drink in all in (except the Sacraments) as you await the wonderful day with the Sacraments are yours too when you are confirmed in full fellowship with the Church.
As for Mass itself. you can and should do everything, except communion.
God Bless.
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