What Do I Do About Returning To The Faith?

For some years we have been attending Methodist church regularly. We visited st Luke's because we are looking to come back to the church. What are the steps we need to take next? Can we receive communion? Thanks!

First, let us say praised be to our Lord Jesus Christ that you are interested in returning to the faith! You are always welcomed at St. Luke. To answer your question, I am going to have to make some assumptions. These are:

1) That you did not formally defect from the Catholic Church. That is, you did not write a letter to the Archbishop and state "I am no longer Catholic, I am Methodist"

2) That by being "raised" Catholic, that you were well-cathechized, and in addition to Baptism and FIrst Holy Communion, that you were confirmed as a Catholic as well.

3) That you believe the truths of the Catholic Church.

If these conditions exists, all that is needed to be in union with the Church is for you to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliaton (Confession). After this, you are free to receive Holy Communion.

Without knowing more information about your children, there ages, etc it is difficult to give a complete answer. At the least, they need to begin to attend Religious Education classes.

You may want to consider attending the RCIA classes on Tuesday night. These classes are intended for those who are considering coming into the faith. However, Catholics who want to learn more about their faith often attend.

It would be best of you scheduled an appointment with the pastor or one of the Deacons to review the specifics of the situation with you and your children.