Lapsed Catholic facts for kids
A lapsed Catholic is a term for someone who was raised in the Catholic Church but doesn't actively practice their faith anymore. Even if they don't go to church regularly, they might still think of themselves as Catholic. According to the rules of the Catholic Church, called Canon Law, they are still considered Catholic.
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What Does "Lapsed" Mean?
The word "lapsed" means that someone has stopped doing something they used to do. In this case, it means a Catholic person has stopped actively practicing their religion. This might mean they don't go to Mass (church service) every week. It could also mean they don't take part in other church activities.
Still Part of the Church?
Even if a person is a lapsed Catholic, the Catholic Church still considers them a Catholic. This is because of Canon Law. Canon Law is the set of rules and laws that guide the Catholic Church. Once someone is baptized as a Catholic, they are always considered a Catholic by the Church.
Different Kinds of Lapsed Catholics
Some lapsed Catholics might still go to church on special days. These days include Christmas and Easter. They might not go at any other time of the year.
Cultural Catholics
People who only attend church on special occasions are sometimes called Cultural Catholics. This means their connection to the Church is more about culture or family traditions. It's less about daily religious practice.
A&P Catholics
Another nickname for these individuals is A&P Catholics. This refers to Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday. These are two important days in the Catholic calendar. People might attend Mass on these days but not regularly otherwise. This nickname is sometimes used in a joking way.
