1.     What is the number one reason for people to return to the Catholic Church?

The hunger for the Holy Eucharist is the number one reason that people come back to the Catholic Church.

2.     What are the first steps to coming back to the Catholic Church?  To whom do I go?

• Just attend Mass. Go with Someone you know.
• Talk often to God in prayer.  Just use your own words and listen for His response.
• Find someone to talk to.  It could be a priest, deacon, sister, brother or many insightful and holy family members, friends or co-workers. 
• The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a great source of direction and consolation.

3.     Besides praying for them, how can I bring my family back to church?

• Keep a warm, loving relationship while making known your disappointment.
• Avoid anger.  Remember God loves them and is working on their hearts.
• Proceed with caution when giving them responses.  Be sure of your knowledge and facts or refer them to someone who can guide them.
• You can’t force or demand that they come back…pressure is not the answer.
• You can enable the person to reconnect with God’s help.  Be patient and allow the Holy Spirit to work in them and their circumstances.

4.     How do I get information about an annulment?

Annulment brochures are available that should answer most questions.  One who is seeking further information about an annulment should approach his or her parish priest or call the tribunal office in Ogdensburg, 315-393-2920, for an appointment.  From time to time, the Tribunal offers workshops in the parishes to provide more information on the workings of the Tribunal and to offer individual assistance.

5.     How much does it cost to get an annulment?

In the Diocese of Ogdensburg, if a formal annulment is granted, the fee is $400.00.

6.     How can we help young children to become a part of the church community?

• There may be what is usually called a Children’s Liturgy or Children’s Mass with young children taking age appropriate roles.
• There is also a Children’s Liturgy of the Word in which very young (pre-school & primary) are dismissed to a place where the scripture reading and brief talk are geared to them.  Since this age group is usually pre-first communion, they may stay until Mass is ended and rejoin their parents.
• There is also much encouragement given to parents to sit in church in places where children can see more of what’s going on.  Many priests are quick to invite children, even spontaneously, to do little things e.g. help give the sign of peace.
• Don’t hesitate to find other like minded parents and work together with your pastor, deacon or pastoral associate in the parish.  Remember, Liturgy is “work”.  A lot can happen if you put some effort into it