Doubting Teen

[TheGuardian]

My 17 yr. old is doubting the existance of God. We homeschooled and he learned his faith well, but in the past year he won’t pray the rosary or join in with other Catholic youth activities. He attends Mass with me but has recently expressed his doubts. He has even removed the crucifix from his room. I don’t know what to say to him or do for him other than pray, pray, pray. Is it normal for someone his age to go through this? I worry that when he is on his own he will stop attending Mass altogether. Please help!

 

[deb1]

I feel so bad for you. As a mother myself, I can imagine how much pain that this is causing you. I certainly will remember you in my prayers tonight.

Just a question. Does he like to read? There are some excellent books out there that would probably help him. One particular book that I like is THe Case for Faith by Lee Strobel. The author attempts to answer the eight objections that nonbelievers have against Christianity. Although not from a Catholic viewpoint, I don’t think that there is anything in it that contradicts the church. You might want to preview it first.

Have you asked him specifically why he has stopped believing in God?

 

[puzzleannie]

first of all, does he really feel this way, or is he pushing your buttons. If he does feel this way, encourage him to talk about his doubts and fears, the way you would about any other topic - going to college, trying out for football, joining a drama club, breaking up with a girlfriend etc. For every minute you spend talking spend at least 5 listening. You can legislate what a person that age believes, but you can make house rules for residents of any age and stick to them (make sure they apply to everyone if you go that route). That means you can require him to attend Mass with you, and abide by your standards of conduct, but not that you can dictate what he believes or does not believe.