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Archiver > Scotch-Irish > 1998-03 > 0889763140


From: JRose10700 <>
Subject: Re: resonating etc.
Date: Thu, 12 Mar 1998 23:25:40 EST


In a message dated 98-03-12 20:46:30 EST, you write:

<< 'll never forget the look
of hurt and uncomprehension on my 11 year old daughter's face when she
was refused communion at St. Patrick's in NYC. We're Christians, who
worship in a Methodist congregation and are used to the celebration of
an open communion table. >>

"Closed communion" - which Catholics as well as many Protestant churches
practice, can be a complexity to explain.
I am of the belief that anyone who shares the samve views about the Lord's
Eucharist should be able to partake. Theology of the Eucharist was one of the
dividing factors in the Reformation and the pulling apart of many
denominations centuries ago. I can see trying to explain transubstantiation,
consubstantiation, symbolism, etc. to a child would be a bit difficult.
It is my devout hope that some day all of God's people will gather around the
same table and :"do this in memory of Me."
There have been too many hurts between the denominations already. (Until you
have been refused housing privileges because you are Catholic, you don't know
what hurt is!!! Yet my experience in intolerance has been very mild compared
to some.) I don't like turning anyone away, from God's table, from His church,
from anything. I know I cannot embrace the world, but I do hate divisive
barriers.
As a CAtholic I would like to apologize to your little daughter for any
embarrassment she may have experienced at the church. I am glad that you had a
beautiful ecumenical service which went a long way toward healing. I wish we
could have more of them.
love
joanrose

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