Any "innocent" parties could easily plead there case. This is truly a red herring, though I am amused to see how many FReepers are paranoid about envelopes.
Having said that,,,I'll answer with some questions to illustrate a point,,,Do you think the Pastor's approach is the only one?
No, of course not. The usual approach is to pretend there is no problem. I've got to give this pastor points for trying to stop the breeding a new generation of CINOS.
Can you think of any other approaches?
Isn't that what I asked you? I think he should have issued warning, if he did not. This story doesn't really give us that information.
If he had given no warning, I would, if I were he, give all those affected a "second chance" but let it be known he reserved the right (as is his as pastor) to deny the First Communion to those who are not serious.
Do you think all priests with this problem agree with his actions?
Far too many of our priest are lukewarm. A better question for you is whether you believe we should not challenge people and have a large congregation that stands for nothing, or should we have perhaps smaller gatherings of committed faithful Catholics?
In the past, Priests have talked to parents directly, it is only one suggestion that they do so again. Or send them a personal letter. Or even a form letter would be better IMO. Or address it in Mass. Or in the bulletin. Or perhaps a warning that something like this could be a possible solution. Just a few suggestions. I bet you could think of more.
Again, we don't know if any of this was done. So I withhold judgment. Like I said, now that I had everyone's attention, I would "forgive" the repentent. The obstinate, I would recommend visit the Episcopalians.
The result is predictable and actually part of his plan to "punish/persuade" the parents to be better Catholics.
And this is wrong because?
The Church didn't use to proclaim excommunications because it felt good or we liked punishing people. It was a call to return to holiness. This isno difference.
Worse case, a few parents will grudginly go to Mass for a year so little Suzy can have her big day. Maybe they'll learn something.
SD
Ok, so you criticize most priests. I only criticize the approach of this one. Oh well.
A better question for you is whether you believe we should not challenge people and have a large congregation that stands for nothing, or should we have perhaps smaller gatherings of committed faithful Catholics?
Standing for real Christianity is important. All the rest is extra. It's important if it is helpful to the first point.
In my church, children are not confirmed without parental involvement. (Or that of a sponsor if no parent is willing or available) But none are turned away from instruction and learning the gospel. Maybe the priest could consider that type of approach. Just a suggestion from an outsider.