Anglicans on the Camino

[JMiller]

As I am making my preparations, I've thought about the following... perhaps a strange thing to ponder, but perhaps not...

I am not a Roman Catholic -- I am a (former Episcopalian) Anglican and am wondering about options regarding church services while I am in Spain. I cannot imagine taking such a pilgrimage without the weekly restoration of Holy Communion.

I have heard that I can get special permission from a local Catholic bishop to "legally" receive Communion in a Catholic church -- (laughing) I know enough about the Catholic mass to make a showing for myself, so I don't think that I'd be tackled before the altar; but then again, if permission is obtainable I might as well become 'legit'...

Anyone have experience with this issue? Your advice is welcomed...

 

[tyrrek]

Hi JMiller!

This was the subject of a sometimes heated, but quite informative debate last year. You can find it here, and interpret as you wish!
el-camino-frances/topic11482.html

Buen Camino!

Keith

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

As an Anglican, if you're familiar with the RC Mass - more or less - just GO, dear friend. I always try to attend Mass en route [or should that be 'en camino'?] You will be blessed, not damned. I was an assistant Pastor of an Anglican church in NE Spain and often took Communion in RC churches - at first with "permission" - but latterly I just went. No one would deny you the sacrament, if you take it with faith, respect and love.
I will certainly be looking for church services on the Via de la Plata in May.
Buen camino!
Stephen
http://www.calig.co.uk/camino_de_santiago.htm

 

[JMiller]

Thank you for your responses. I also did a little search of the boards (which I should have done before posting -- sorry) and that settled everything.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I walked for a few days with the Queen's Chaplain, and he said that he would not take communion because he respected the rules of the Catholic Church. I doubt that any priest would deny you, though.

 

[JohnnieWalker]

For the record - the queen has many chaplains - both Anglican and Protestant!

 

[Deleted member 3000]

...the College of Chaplains within the Royal Household which numbers 36. The appointment which is in the gift of the Sovereign continues until 70 years of age and is not honorary. They each preach in St. James Palace Chapel once a year

Not many walk the Camino Frances, though!