An 8-year-old with cerebral palsy could not receive their First Holy Communion because of concerns that he had the mental capacity to understand the ritual.
According to reports from San Antonio, Texas, the Rev. Phil Henning of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church denies Kevin Castro his first reception of the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist, because it had "the mental capacity of a 6 months old" and Do not 't have "sufficient knowledge of Christ" to participate in religious ritual.
So exactly what level of knowledge do you need to receive communion? Catholic doctrine does not specify exactly. The administration of the Holy Eucharist to children requires that they have sufficient knowledge and careful preparation to understand the mystery of Christ according to their ability and are able to receive the body of Christ with faith and devotion.
Deacon Pat Rodgers, of the Archdiocese of San Antonio, says ABCNews.com that the decision to give the sacrament is the local priest, but stressed: "It is never our wish, hope or the desire to retain a sacrament of someone want or need. "
In place of the Eucharist, Kevin received the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. His family says he is being discriminated against because of their status and I agree.
Do you believe that Jesus Christ you'd take a sick child? Not the Rev. Phil Henning ignoring everything it stood even have to stand in front of his congregation to preach the word of God? And is there really no way Henning knows exactly what this child understands? Would not it be time to err on the side of caution and give communion child?
That's why I hate organized religion. A man who allegedly interpreting the word of God. Something offensive, as this make me leave the church, where I was the mother of Kevin, and worship God by myself. What do you think? Rev Henning was right or wrong to deny communion to Kevin?
posted by sooyup on 2011