Attending Mass for the first time in 8 years

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lizds

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I’m truly excited. Words cannot explain the joy that consumes me. I was raised in a atheist family and grew up without God in my life. Some friends introduced me to a protestant church. Now at the age of twenty-two I’m discovering my heart and faith is leading me to Catholicism.

I’m nervous at the same time since it has been so long since I’ve last attended Mass. I’m not at all worried about the kneeling, standing, sitting, etc. More so the dress. Last time I went I was fourteen and the parish was located out in the country, so we would dress in jeans and tee shirts. I’m attending Mass at a very close friend’s parish. I’m very blessed to have him in my life. He has taught me so much about Catholicism in the last few weeks. I’ve even started to pray the rosary daily, with a little bit of aid of course, but I have memorized most of the prayers already. I was even flattered to learn that he had been praying for my conversion.

I’ve even thought about looking into RCIA. My heart is telling me to go for it, but I feel as if I still don’t know a whole lot about the church. I was hoping for some (name removed by moderator)ut on whether I should go for it. I’ve already prepared my self for a difficult journey. My family does not approve of my faith, or my decision to join the Catholic church.
 
Hello and welcome to CAF.The Parish I attend is a small rural mission.Before we moved to the mountains of SE.Ky.I attended a larger Parish in a metro area out west.Clothing in both places are pretty much the same.Some women wore jeans,some wore dress pants,some wore dresses.Modesty should be the rule.I think RCIA would greatly benefit you.They would teach the Catechism of the Catholic Church>this is what the Church believes.I will be praying for you.
 
Yes, by all means do look into and take part in RCIA. I will be keeping you in sincere prayer for your journey home and beyond.

May Gods choicest blessings be upon you, in the Name of the Father, and of the son and of the Holy Spirit…
 
wardrandolph said:
Hello and welcome to CAF.The Parish I attend is a small rural mission.Before we moved to the mountains of SE.Ky.I attended a larger Parish in a metro area out west.Clothing in both places are pretty much the same.Some women wore jeans,some wore dress pants,some wore dresses.Modesty should be the rule.I think RCIA would greatly benefit you.They would teach the Catechism of the Catholic Church>this is what the Church believes.I will be praying for you.
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FWIW I always wear a skirt when I attend an unfamiliar parish, just in case it turns out to be one where people disapprove of women in slacks or just tend to dress up more.

Congratulations and blessings on starting your journey!
 
It sounds like you are ready, now, for RCIA. You should call the nearest parish as soon as possible and get set up. This is the time of year when most classes are begining. You are just in time! Welcome home, and don’t worry too much about your family, they will most likely come around in time, P. S.–Hang on to your friend he sounds truly concerned for you and your soul! 😃
 
Lizds - Wow, I am excited for you. I am assuming your friend will be with you when attend the mass? He will be able to guide you a bit through everything I’m sure. Don’t get too hung up on dress - just wear something you might wear if you work in an office. Dress pants or skirt and a blouse or tidy looking top. I know that having a family who disapproves can really cause heartache. You will be in a family of one billion, with God as the father.
 
Good for you. God must be calling you if you have the desire to attend Mass and possibly join the Catholic family. You probably should consider RCIA, this will help you on your journey. You will be growing in faith and knowledge with others who are sharing the same feelings. Remember to take baby steps on your journey. Talk to a priest about your desire to become Catholic and maybe the concerns you have regarding your family. It’s important to keep the peace with loved ones. Maybe after your conversion, you will be a good example and it will lead your family members to convert as well.

You might want to get some good Catholic books on saints or something about Jesus’ life. The Leaflet Missal co. has some great religious items, I think they’re online and they can send a catalogue.

As for proper clothes at church, t’shirts and worn out jeans and dirty sneakers are totally inappropriate and disrespectful. (unfortunately lukewarm Catholics forget who they are standing before and therefore, dress and act carelessly in church) A clean button down shirt and slacks are the best choice.
 
It can be overwhelming at times to think that there is so much to learn about the Catholic Faith. Be patient. God is calling you and welcome home. You made the first step in your spiritual journey. If I may suggest that you consider doing the RCIA program in your parish, it will definitely help you in faith journey.
God Bless and I will include you in my prayers so that God can illuminate your soul, heart and mind.
 
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