Becoming catholic- some questions

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Hi all! I have felt called to join the catholic church, and really want to join the church, I know RCIA will be a difficult process for me as I do not own a car but I am determined to go through with it. I do however have a few questions.

how did you know you found the right parish?

how is the first confession? I know the priest is not supposed to judge but for some reason, I fear that he might.

one last question that might need a little backstory, I have been praying really hard for a few months about going through RCIA and for God to make it known in my heart that it is the right decision. I went to ash Wednesday service for the first time in my life and the priest said something totally different than what I was expecting. He said, “convert and believe in the gospel.” I have never heard of that being used.
 
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Bekind2 said:
I have known of the ones using repent and dust, but never convert.
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I don’t understand this sentence. If transportation is going to be an issue, I’d select the closest parish or a parish on a bus line. You’re a ways from confession, but be at ease. They do not and will not judge your sins. They are heard everything and probably things we couldn’t imagine or dream up.
 
It’s likely that a priest has said “convert and believe in the gospel”, but this time YOU heard it. I’d say that is definitely God calling you. Would you be able to attend this parish?
 
its a parish by my college! I could definitely talk to him, but I would also have to look for one closer to home as well. It was a profound moment for me. again, thank you for replying!
 
Good luck in your process!
  • I enjoy priests who explain Catholic Doctrine, and who center their homilies on Jesus. Some priests try to be folksy and tell stories, which may not always be very relevant, even though well-intended.
  • Priests vary during confession. Some are quick. Others explain God’s mercy. Others ask you questions. I go every month, and I haven’t felt offended by any priest, other than a couple times where he failed to ask me to say the Act of Contrition.
  • Ash Wednesday: I usually get a variation of: “You are dust and to dust you shall return.”
 
I will say that I was probably one of the biggest skeptics of Catholicism when I first started exploring the Catholic Faith and I will tell you in all honesty confession was my turning point.

When you do your first confession tell your priest it is your first time (if they don’t know already) and they will guide you through it. Tell them everything you can think of and don’t hold anything back. Whatever you are taking the priest they have probably heard every version of what you said only 10 times worse or a million times before. The Bible says there is nothing new under the sun so take solace in knowing that whatever your confession others are having the same struggle.

Also rest assured in knowing that the priest is bound by the seal of confession meaning that they may never reveal or even acknowledge your confession outside of the confession itself else they face the consequences of excommunication. Which if you aren’t and don’t know means they can’t participate in any catholic sacrament.

Hope this helps and rest easy knowing everyone does it and everyone finds it difficult even seasoned Catholics who do it all the time😬
 
Thank you so much for your reply!! I’ll keep all of that In mind 🙂
 
Thank you so much it can feel like a lot at times but I think it just takes time and prayer, I know without a doubt that God is with me through this decision, I haven’t been in any RCIA classes yet (I go to college on a pretty small area) but I’ve been reading a lot and praying so I know that God will make it right in my heart. Thank you
 
I am so excited for you!! I just wanted to encourage you; when I first began the RCIA process, I did not have a vehicle available to me. I spoke to the priest (as well as my RCIA Director) about my transportation issue, and they arranged rides for me! So perhaps let them know that you might need help in that area.

Also, I was terrified of going to my first Confession. It was literally the best experience of my life, lol. You will find the priest to be the exact opposite of judgmental 😉
 
Thank you so so much that really calms me! And it’s good to know that other people have transportation issues and still managed their way through it 🙂
 
I rode my bike to Mass for months before my confirmation, uphill — both ways! (Just kidding, it was downhill the way back). Whichever parish is closest to you is a good place to start. After all, that is where providence has placed you. First Confession was an awesome experience for me, it was by far my longest confession and probably always will be. It definitely instilled a very deep appreciation for the sacraments and I personally have never experienced anything like the profound peace I feel after a good confession. God bless you!
 
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Bekind2 said:
Hi all! I have felt called to join the catholic church, and really want to join the church, I know RCIA will be a difficult process for me as I do not own a car but I am determined to go through with it. I do however have a few questions.

how did you know you found the right parish?
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without a car, I’d say the best parish is the closest one to you.
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Bekind2:
how is the first confession? I know the priest is not supposed to judge but for some reason, I fear that he might.
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Given how many confessions any priest hears, I wouldn’t worry about that.
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Bekind2:
one last question that might need a little backstory, I have been praying really hard for a few months about going through RCIA and for God to make it known in my heart that it is the right decision. I went to ash Wednesday service for the first time in my life and the priest said something totally different than what I was expecting. He said, “convert and believe in the gospel.” I have never heard of that being used.
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Since you are considering RCIA,

THAT would be a good question to ask the priest, considering you have questions, and telling him you are considering RCIA.

I’m sure he would appreciate the chance to explain

Prayers ascending for your journey
 
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You’ll know when you’ve found a parish that you want to stick with. Different people will have different reasons for why they choose to attend Mass at a certain parish. I doubt any particular reason is more right or wrong. Keep in mind that no matter where you attend mass you will still be worshipping & receiving.

I think it’s quite normal to be anxious about a first confession. It’s somewhat of an unknown if you’ve never done it. Some priests who post here have talked about confession - maybe see if you can find the “Ask a Priest Anything About Confession” thread, it may help. I try to go monthly and there are still some months where I’ll feel a little anxious during the drive in - however, just go through with it and I’ve never, ever regretted going. The sacrament is a beautiful gift from God which I think you should gratefully receive. Try to push the anxiety or fear of unknown aside.
 
Hey, I’m glad you’re considering becoming Catholic. RCIA was only difficult for me in the sense of social anxiety and overcoming vices. Pray to the Holy Spirit that he will guide you to the parish he Wills. My first confession felt like the weight of the world was lifted off of my shoulders. My guess is when the priest said “convert and believe in the gospel” he means convert from the error or sin ( anything that contradicts Holy Mother Church). God Bless!
 
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