26 Jun '07 05:22>
What does the Church believe happens when, say, a Lutheran (knowingly) communes at a Roman
Catholic liturgy? Let's assume that the Lutheran is doing so because of his belief of the philosophy
of 'opened table.' That is, his motivation is not to disrespect the Church (although I realize that the
Church would see his actions as such) but to follow his conscience. Assume, too, that he does so
reverently, with a belief in the Real Presence and full participation at the Mass. (Assume the priest
has no idea that he is Lutheran)
Specifically, how does the Church view his actions? Is taking the Body of Christ a sin? Does the
Sacrament have no or less efficacy?
What of a Roman Catholic not in a state of grace (say one who uses contraception fully understanding
and rejecting the Church's teachings)?
Nemesio
Catholic liturgy? Let's assume that the Lutheran is doing so because of his belief of the philosophy
of 'opened table.' That is, his motivation is not to disrespect the Church (although I realize that the
Church would see his actions as such) but to follow his conscience. Assume, too, that he does so
reverently, with a belief in the Real Presence and full participation at the Mass. (Assume the priest
has no idea that he is Lutheran)
Specifically, how does the Church view his actions? Is taking the Body of Christ a sin? Does the
Sacrament have no or less efficacy?
What of a Roman Catholic not in a state of grace (say one who uses contraception fully understanding
and rejecting the Church's teachings)?
Nemesio