How do I resume participating in the Church if I am an inactive Catholic?

  The Catholic parishes in Waterloo welcome inactive Catholics who wish to resume more active participation in the spiritual and sacramental life of the Catholic Church.
    Inactive Catholics can resume participating in Sunday Mass whenever they are ready to do so. As a general rule they should celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) before receiving Holy Communion, and at some point they should notify the parish office where they plan to participate so that parish records can be updated. Individuals who have formally renounced their membership in the Catholic Church, officially joined another church, or have married outside the Church should visit with a pastor or parish staff member.
    The parishes provide a variety of opportunities for inactive, alienated, disillusioned or former Catholics who wish to discuss their past, present or future relationship to the Catholic faith community in a safe, non-threatening environment. These discussions can be helpful even if you do not know when, where or if you wish to resume active participation in the Catholic Church.
    If you are an inactive, alienated, disillusioned or former Catholic or Catholic Seeker who is interested in resuming active participation in the spiritual and sacramental life of the Church, we encourage you to visit with a family member, friend or neighbor who is an active Catholic and to consult with a pastor, parish staff member, or spiritual director.

• For information about resuming active participation in the Church contact the Director of Adult Faith Formation at 319-233-2874.

More FAQ:
• How do I choose a parish?
Related Links:
• Information for Inactive and Alienated Catholics
• Information for Catholic Seekers
• Inactive Catholics and Why They Return
Learn More:
• Three Steps for Coming Back to Church

[Last Update: 01.19.23]