I've had no choice but to forgo Holy Communion because of long lines and shorter Confession times. In 2005-2006, the priest almost always heard a solid hour's worth of Confessions before Mass. He'd delay Mass by up to 10 or 15 minutes, if necessary, and hear as many as possible afterwards. (He probably has the sspx record for speeding tickets hurrying to the next Mass in another state!). Since then, the time has slowly shrunk down to a half hour, but sometimes the priest starts late, so in reality, it leaves about 20 - 25 minutes. People also "save" places for family members and friends, many of whom arrive in the last 5 to 10 minutes. I've seen a woman come early, get the first place in line, and allow people ahead one at a time until her large family arrives with Dad in another vehicle. All are allowed to cut ahead of Mom, who, herself, often sits down. Since the pews are mostly filled and the Rosary in progress, who dare make a disruption to protest? Last spring, it happened to me four Sundays in a row, so I couldn't receive Our Lord for over a month. If the priest knows this is going on, why is the matter not addressed? I wrote him a note, but suspect he never received it. If a boy who is going to serve Mass comes late, he should be allowed to go ahead as it is not likely his fault he arrives late. If the SAME altar boy is always in need of cutting ahead in line, then the priest must speak with his parents about getting him to Church earlier. If that can't be done, then a suitable Confession time should be arranged or else he should not serve Mass. Simple charity would seem to be lacking.
Topic: Confession (Read 540 times)