Returning Catholics FAQs: Volun-told?

On Mondays, I answer questions frequently asked by those considering a return to the Catholic Church. How do I know this stuff? I was away for more than 30 years myself, and am the co-author of When They Come Home: Ways to Welcome Returning Catholics , a book for pastors and parish leaders interested in this ministry.

Last weekend, someone asked me to “bring up the gifts.” Since I didn’t know what that was, I said no. I mean, I’m haven’t even been back to confession yet. The person seemed hurt....