Am I allowed to join the church?

[Mi3hael]

I have just been looking into RCIA, I have read this with regards to current family and relationships…

“In many parishes near the beginning of the process their will be a confidential interview with the priest to see if there are any such questions and what solutions may be possible. In such situations it is important to be honest, to identify anything early on and not to have preconceptions. The Church will want to help you respond to God’s call in your life.”

Now I’m going to be straight forward here as it’s a question I have been avoiding, but thought I can’t avoid it any longer.

I’m 30 and religion has not really been in my mind until about a year ago. I’m in a long term relationship and have a 2 year old daughter. While my partner supports me in my interest in becoming a Catholic, she has no interest herself at this time (and may never do so from what I have sensed when we have discussed it).

Would the above be an issue if I wished to take RCIA and become a catholic? Have any members been in a simular situation?

I’m being drawn towards the church, but fear that I may not be accepted if I try and join.

Thanks, Michael

 

[1ke]

Welcome!

Michael, I would encourage you to sit down and ask your questions of your local Catholic pastor.

But be assured that people become Catholic all the time when their spouse has no interest in also becoming Catholic. There isn’t any requirement that she do so.

You mention “partner” rather than “spouse” so that’s something to talk to your pastor about as far as the details of your relationship, your daughter, any past relationships/marriages, etc.

That’s what the “interview” is for, to help the person inquiring understand if there are any things that need further discussion and consideration.

Don’t be afraid to talk to the local pastor! He is there to help! (and please note on an anonymous internet forum you are likely to get more and less helpful answers and maybe even some well-intentioned but inaccurate ones… so best to talk to your pastor!)

 

[HelenRose]

Forums are interesting and you can learn a lot from the ideas that are debated and discussed but you do need to talk face to face with your pastor. Set up an appointment so he can have the time you need to discuss this. It is a wonderful journey with it ups and downs and you will need solid information and not our opinions (however wonderful they may be).

I will pray for you and your journey.

P.S. You will always be accepted in the Church even if you are not able to partake of communion. My husband was not ready for a long time but he was in the choir and took part in many other ways. He was welcome as a friend. Then one day out of the blue he decided that this was what he wanted.

 

[ChurchSoldier]

I think your question has been answered. Just wanted to say “good luck”. You have been prayed for.