Getting ready for college

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LaMusicaSenior

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Hello all!

Just wanted to throw this out there for people to comment on. I’m getting ready to go to a non-Catholic college in less than two weeks. I’m wanting to share my faith, so I’m doing continuing brush-ups on common subjects people may bring up when Catholicism is mentioned. Trying to be a little prepared if someone asks something like “So, how can you belong to a Church whose priests abuse kids?”

What are some things you’ve been questioned about concerning the Catholic faith and does anyone have any hints for sharing my faith on campus?

Thanks!

Chloe M.
 
hi chloe, congratulations on college.

as for preparation, there are a hosts of questions you can face all depending on who you talk to.

protestants: you worship mary, the pope, statues, jesus’s words were symbolic concerning the eucharist, having a pope is not biblical, the mass shouldn’t be a sacrifice, saints can’t hear you because they’re dead, confession is not biblical, and a bunch more of other such things
muslims: jesus was not crucified, christians were deceived and thought he was when in reality it was someone else because god would never let that happen to his prophet
atheists: god doesn’t exist or else you’d be able to prove it to me, catholic curch is corrupt because of small eprcentage of priests, church is just interested in money

anyways i think you get the point. just try to be prepared on any topic you dont’ understand. perhaps you should get a copy oc the catechism and also know the bible really well
 
What are some things you’ve been questioned about concerning the Catholic faith and does anyone have any hints for sharing my faith on campus?
Click to expand...
You should start reading the Bible now if you don’t already, as that will come up if you talk with protestants.

I’ve gotten in to a few discussions on abortion and the like as well. Have good sources, and be confident. I’ve found most people stay fairly civilized when talking about it- I think they were more nervous about the discussion than I was.
 
Current college student, secular university.
  1. Look for a Newman Center. They’re awesome for networking with other Catholic students.
  2. Bring a Catechism and a Bible. Both are good for debates.
  3. Actually read that Bible. It’ll help in debates. One thing to know is that some of the verses Protestants use are taken out of context.
    3a) There’s a nice 365-day plan here. I’m going through it at about 6 days per day with Catholic Memes, just without the Catechism column. At a normal speed, though, it’s no more than about 5 chapters per day.
  4. Things I’ve heard:
    From a non-denominational: Catholics aren’t Christian because we don’t read the Bible. (Umm… explain, then, why I’m in the middle of a 60-Day Bible Challenge with Catholic Memes)
    From a Lutheran: Prayer to the saints seems unnecessary. (Never tried debating this. I think he already agrees that it’s theologically sound)
    From an atheist: Same-sex “marriage,” pro-choice, not wanting her grandma to find out she’s atheist… I gave up on conversation and ate my Thanksgiving turkey silently until her roommate showed up to end the awkwardness. Fair warning– It can get awkward quickly if you’re the only conservative theist at a table with a few liberal atheists.
    But really, I haven’t heard too much vitriol. Most of the debates I’ve had are in one of two groups.
    *Got caught up at “Are Catholics Christian?” without even reaching stuff like papal supremacy or veneration of the saints
    *Completely cordial, and mostly just explaining doctrinal differences between me and a Lutheran friend.
  5. Don’t be ashamed that you’re Catholic. I, at least, respect anyone’s religion more if they own up to it.
    5a) Similarly, respect other people’s beliefs. That’s the bulk of the reason I find it more pleasant to talk to my Lutheran friend than some of my atheist friends back home. We actually respect each other’s views in discussion/debate.
  6. Remember things like Holy Days of Obligation and Lenten fasting. You’re on your own now, and have to look out for yourself.
  7. Last, but certainly not least, remember you have us here at the CAF to fall back on if you need help in debate, living a Catholic life, or even just surviving college. I know I’ve used it like that, and I’ve not even been here a year.
 
Trigonometric said:
You should start reading the Bible now if you don’t already, as that will come up if you talk with protestants.

I’ve gotten in to a few discussions on abortion and the like as well. Have good sources, and be confident. I’ve found most people stay fairly civilized when talking about it- I think they were more nervous about the discussion than I was.
Click to expand...
oh good point, forgot about that. also the church’s teaching on contraception as well as homosexuality. those are touchy issues these days
 
I have definitely been asked about praying to Mary and to the Saints. I have also been asked about the Mass and why it seems so ritualistic and monotonous. These questions have been asked by Protestants. Other topics have been brought up, but not transubstantiation yet, surprisingly…

When entering these conversations, you’ll probably know when these questions will be brought up before they happen. Usually before one is brought up I put in a sentence saying what I believe about the topic as a Catholic and then they will ask what makes me believe that or will present an opposing viewpoint. Here the person may get defensive easily so it is important to make sure you listen to them explain what they think and let them talk. You can ask them what they believe and why too. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t scramble for an answer, but just be honest and say you are sill learning about that topic and don’t feel confident in answering right now. If e person seems open to your reasoning and explanations you haven learned through the Word, then maybe you can invite them to talk again or do a Bible study together or even offer to take them to Mass with you on a weekday when there are less people so it is less overwhelming.

Hope this helped! Good luck! 🙂
 
Since you are getting ready for college, you might want to start looking for a parish that is close to your school. Hopefully one that has a young people’s group or a group that is dedicated towards students. I know many parishes that are close to colleges and universities generally have something. Once school begins, you can always begin church shopping meaning you attend a mass and see how comfortable you feel inside the church. If you don’t like it, go somewhere else. It will take some time and discernment to determine which parish God wants you to attend. I personally find if there is a church you like, get involved somehow (as to not disturb your studies) because you get to learn a great deal about the church by volunteering.

Not all colleges have Newman centres therefore you should also look for clubs that are for Catholic students. The university I attend presently doesn’t have a Newman centre but we do have a Catholic student group. Getting into contact with the school’s multi-faith chaplaincy or Catholic chaplain would be a good idea so that you will have a place to go and make friends. Plus some chaplaincies offer masses either/both week days and weekends for their Catholic students. It really depends on the school.

Picking up several copies of the book: why do catholics genuflect by Al Kresta and the you Ucats would also be a good idea since it has the Catholic faith in simple question and answer format. Having a copy of Catholicism for Dummies, would also be a good idea. All three books are simple to read and are essential to everyone’s library. I can also provide more titles if you wish.

When you attend college, it is also important to have fun, study hard, and enjoy your time because it goes very quickly. Remember as you study, it is important to attend mass every week especially during exams and get connected to a Catholic community. This will help you to grow in your relationship with God and it will open many doors. You should also join a club that is connected to your program of study because it will help you to network with students in your field.

If you have any questions. Please send them along. I am presently completing my master’s at a very secular university in Canada therefore I understand the challenges that Catholics face when they are attending school.

SG
 
LaMusicaSenior said:
Hello all!

Just wanted to throw this out there for people to comment on. I’m getting ready to go to a non-Catholic college in less than two weeks. I’m wanting to share my faith, so I’m doing continuing brush-ups on common subjects people may bring up when Catholicism is mentioned. Trying to be a little prepared if someone asks something like “So, how can you belong to a Church whose priests abuse kids?”

What are some things you’ve been questioned about concerning the Catholic faith and does anyone have any hints for sharing my faith on campus?

Thanks!

Chloe M.
Click to expand...
Razanir said:
Current college student, secular university.
  1. Look for a Newman Center. They’re awesome for networking with other Catholic students.
  2. Bring a Catechism and a Bible. Both are good for debates.
  3. Actually read that Bible. It’ll help in debates. One thing to know is that some of the verses Protestants use are taken out of context.
    3a) There’s a nice 365-day plan here. I’m going through it at about 6 days per day with Catholic Memes, just without the Catechism column. At a normal speed, though, it’s no more than about 5 chapters per day.
  4. Things I’ve heard:
    From a non-denominational: Catholics aren’t Christian because we don’t read the Bible. (Umm… explain, then, why I’m in the middle of a 60-Day Bible Challenge with Catholic Memes)
    From a Lutheran: Prayer to the saints seems unnecessary. (Never tried debating this. I think he already agrees that it’s theologically sound)
    From an atheist: Same-sex “marriage,” pro-choice, not wanting her grandma to find out she’s atheist… I gave up on conversation and ate my Thanksgiving turkey silently until her roommate showed up to end the awkwardness. Fair warning– It can get awkward quickly if you’re the only conservative theist at a table with a few liberal atheists.
    But really, I haven’t heard too much vitriol. Most of the debates I’ve had are in one of two groups.
    *Got caught up at “Are Catholics Christian?” without even reaching stuff like papal supremacy or veneration of the saints
    *Completely cordial, and mostly just explaining doctrinal differences between me and a Lutheran friend.
  5. Don’t be ashamed that you’re Catholic. I, at least, respect anyone’s religion more if they own up to it.
    5a) Similarly, respect other people’s beliefs. That’s the bulk of the reason I find it more pleasant to talk to my Lutheran friend than some of my atheist friends back home. We actually respect each other’s views in discussion/debate.
  6. Remember things like Holy Days of Obligation and Lenten fasting. You’re on your own now, and have to look out for yourself.
  7. Last, but certainly not least, remember you have us here at the CAF to fall back on if you need help in debate, living a Catholic life, or even just surviving college. I know I’ve used it like that, and I’ve not even been here a year.
Click to expand...
Absolutely!! I went to a VERY secular college, but I came out so much stronger in my faith and closer to God than I was when I started 😃

Just my two cents. . .
  1. Be aware that you WILL be exposed to both students AND professors who are going to be almost violently anti-Catholic and anti-religion. The students are one thing. But seeing professors – authority figures – saying such radical things as fact is something that I don’t think I ever quite got used to. Pray, pray, and pray some more to receive the grace to see them as children of God, as I’ve seen even the most devout and holy Catholics become bitter and filled with anger at these people. Eventually, when you can do so without belittling them or reacting emotionally, you’ll be able to confront them with love – even in class.
  2. If your campus has FOCUS missionaries, DEFINITELY get in touch with them. If there’s a Newman Center, they’ll surely be around there. However, if you aren’t at a FOCUS campus, check out the FOCUS Digital Campus in addition to any solid Catholic student groups on campus. They’ve got great people and are a fantastic resource as well! I’m a FOCUS Alum, and I can testify that FOCUS does a great job at keeping college students in the Church and strengthening their faith, because ALL their missionaries and staff have been to college, so they know exactly what you face. 👍
Feel free to message me if you want to talk further! 🙂
 
acarlson said:
  1. Be aware that you WILL be exposed to both students AND professors who are going to be almost violently anti-Catholic and anti-religion. The students are one thing. But seeing professors – authority figures – saying such radical things as fact is something that I don’t think I ever quite got used to. Pray, pray, and pray some more to receive the grace to see them as children of God, as I’ve seen even the most devout and holy Catholics become bitter and filled with anger at these people. Eventually, when you can do so without belittling them or reacting emotionally, you’ll be able to confront them with love – even in class.
Click to expand...
However, if you get lucky like me, you’ll have a grad student instructor who’s Catholic. (And even gave me a St. Ignatius medal when she found out I was)
 
angell1 said:
hi chloe, congratulations on college.

as for preparation, there are a hosts of questions you can face all depending on who you talk to.

protestants: you worship mary, the pope, statues, jesus’s words were symbolic concerning the eucharist, having a pope is not biblical, the mass shouldn’t be a sacrifice, saints can’t hear you because they’re dead, confession is not biblical, and a bunch more of other such things
muslims: jesus was not crucified, christians were deceived and thought he was when in reality it was someone else because god would never let that happen to his prophet
atheists: god doesn’t exist or else you’d be able to prove it to me, catholic curch is corrupt because of small eprcentage of priests, church is just interested in money

anyways i think you get the point. just try to be prepared on any topic you dont’ understand. perhaps you should get a copy oc the catechism and also know the bible really well
Click to expand...
Thanks so much for the reply! I’m printing this list off and going through each question…you never know who/what you’ll run into and it is always helpful to have already played through what you are going to say BEFORE you have to say it. 😃
 
Trigonometric said:
You should start reading the Bible now if you don’t already, as that will come up if you talk with protestants.

I’ve gotten in to a few discussions on abortion and the like as well. Have good sources, and be confident. I’ve found most people stay fairly civilized when talking about it- I think they were more nervous about the discussion than I was.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the response. I try to read the day’s readings in the morning, and have been familiarizing myself with verses often misinterpreted in discussions.

Exactly - and to remember that it’s not about “winning” an argument, it’s about being Christ’s hands and feet to that person and acting out of love for them.
 
Razanir said:
Current college student, secular university.
  1. Look for a Newman Center. They’re awesome for networking with other Catholic students.
  2. Bring a Catechism and a Bible. Both are good for debates.
  3. Actually read that Bible. It’ll help in debates. One thing to know is that some of the verses Protestants use are taken out of context.
    3a) There’s a nice 365-day plan here. I’m going through it at about 6 days per day with Catholic Memes, just without the Catechism column. At a normal speed, though, it’s no more than about 5 chapters per day.
  4. Things I’ve heard:
    From a non-denominational: Catholics aren’t Christian because we don’t read the Bible. (Umm… explain, then, why I’m in the middle of a 60-Day Bible Challenge with Catholic Memes)
    From a Lutheran: Prayer to the saints seems unnecessary. (Never tried debating this. I think he already agrees that it’s theologically sound)
    From an atheist: Same-sex “marriage,” pro-choice, not wanting her grandma to find out she’s atheist… I gave up on conversation and ate my Thanksgiving turkey silently until her roommate showed up to end the awkwardness. Fair warning– It can get awkward quickly if you’re the only conservative theist at a table with a few liberal atheists.
    But really, I haven’t heard too much vitriol. Most of the debates I’ve had are in one of two groups.
    *Got caught up at “Are Catholics Christian?” without even reaching stuff like papal supremacy or veneration of the saints
    *Completely cordial, and mostly just explaining doctrinal differences between me and a Lutheran friend.
  5. Don’t be ashamed that you’re Catholic. I, at least, respect anyone’s religion more if they own up to it.
    5a) Similarly, respect other people’s beliefs. That’s the bulk of the reason I find it more pleasant to talk to my Lutheran friend than some of my atheist friends back home. We actually respect each other’s views in discussion/debate.
  6. Remember things like Holy Days of Obligation and Lenten fasting. You’re on your own now, and have to look out for yourself.
  7. Last, but certainly not least, remember you have us here at the CAF to fall back on if you need help in debate, living a Catholic life, or even just surviving college. I know I’ve used it like that, and I’ve not even been here a year.
Click to expand...
Thank you for the hints! I’m going to get involved in our Catholic Campus Center. With the great resources that I am blessed with, I know that I can be a great Catholic witness.
 
angell1 said:
oh good point, forgot about that. also the church’s teaching on contraception as well as homosexuality. those are touchy issues these days
Click to expand...
True - and those most commonly misinterpreted concerning the Church’s stance.
 
dlobrien said:
I have definitely been asked about praying to Mary and to the Saints. I have also been asked about the Mass and why it seems so ritualistic and monotonous. These questions have been asked by Protestants. Other topics have been brought up, but not transubstantiation yet, surprisingly…

When entering these conversations, you’ll probably know when these questions will be brought up before they happen. Usually before one is brought up I put in a sentence saying what I believe about the topic as a Catholic and then they will ask what makes me believe that or will present an opposing viewpoint. Here the person may get defensive easily so it is important to make sure you listen to them explain what they think and let them talk. You can ask them what they believe and why too. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t scramble for an answer, but just be honest and say you are sill learning about that topic and don’t feel confident in answering right now. If e person seems open to your reasoning and explanations you haven learned through the Word, then maybe you can invite them to talk again or do a Bible study together or even offer to take them to Mass with you on a weekday when there are less people so it is less overwhelming.

Hope this helped! Good luck! 🙂
Click to expand...
This did help, thank you for responding! Yes - the important thing to remember is humility and honesty - as well as a listening ear.

Thanks again!
 
SecretGarden said:
Since you are getting ready for college, you might want to start looking for a parish that is close to your school. Hopefully one that has a young people’s group or a group that is dedicated towards students. I know many parishes that are close to colleges and universities generally have something. Once school begins, you can always begin church shopping meaning you attend a mass and see how comfortable you feel inside the church. If you don’t like it, go somewhere else. It will take some time and discernment to determine which parish God wants you to attend. I personally find if there is a church you like, get involved somehow (as to not disturb your studies) because you get to learn a great deal about the church by volunteering.

Not all colleges have Newman centres therefore you should also look for clubs that are for Catholic students. The university I attend presently doesn’t have a Newman centre but we do have a Catholic student group. Getting into contact with the school’s multi-faith chaplaincy or Catholic chaplain would be a good idea so that you will have a place to go and make friends. Plus some chaplaincies offer masses either/both week days and weekends for their Catholic students. It really depends on the school.

Picking up several copies of the book: why do catholics genuflect by Al Kresta and the you Ucats would also be a good idea since it has the Catholic faith in simple question and answer format. Having a copy of Catholicism for Dummies, would also be a good idea. All three books are simple to read and are essential to everyone’s library. I can also provide more titles if you wish.

When you attend college, it is also important to have fun, study hard, and enjoy your time because it goes very quickly. Remember as you study, it is important to attend mass every week especially during exams and get connected to a Catholic community. This will help you to grow in your relationship with God and it will open many doors. You should also join a club that is connected to your program of study because it will help you to network with students in your field.

If you have any questions. Please send them along. I am presently completing my master’s at a very secular university in Canada therefore I understand the challenges that Catholics face when they are attending school.

SG
Click to expand...
Hello - thanks for answering! I’m actually staying at home during my college classes - which is a huge help in encouragement to stay faithful to the Church (being a good example to my seven younger siblings). I am reading through the Catholic Survival Guide put out by Catholic Answers quite a while ago. God bless you and guide you in your college endeavours as well!
 
acarlson said:
Absolutely!! I went to a VERY secular college, but I came out so much stronger in my faith and closer to God than I was when I started 😃

Just my two cents. . .
  1. Be aware that you WILL be exposed to both students AND professors who are going to be almost violently anti-Catholic and anti-religion. The students are one thing. But seeing professors – authority figures – saying such radical things as fact is something that I don’t think I ever quite got used to. Pray, pray, and pray some more to receive the grace to see them as children of God, as I’ve seen even the most devout and holy Catholics become bitter and filled with anger at these people. Eventually, when you can do so without belittling them or reacting emotionally, you’ll be able to confront them with love – even in class.
  2. If your campus has FOCUS missionaries, DEFINITELY get in touch with them. If there’s a Newman Center, they’ll surely be around there. However, if you aren’t at a FOCUS campus, check out the FOCUS Digital Campus in addition to any solid Catholic student groups on campus. They’ve got great people and are a fantastic resource as well! I’m a FOCUS Alum, and I can testify that FOCUS does a great job at keeping college students in the Church and strengthening their faith, because ALL their missionaries and staff have been to college, so they know exactly what you face. 👍
Feel free to message me if you want to talk further! 🙂
Click to expand...
Thank you so MUCH for sharing about FOCUS digital campus. I cannot wait to check it out and get involved. They are not on my campus, but a lot of our friends who are currently in college / post college participated in FOCUS and loved it. This is a great way for being able to get involved!

Thanks again!
Chloe M.
 
Razanir said:
However, if you get lucky like me, you’ll have a grad student instructor who’s Catholic. (And even gave me a St. Ignatius medal when she found out I was)
Click to expand...
What a great blessing! It’s always awesome when someone who shares the Faith is in a position in which to help and guide us!
Thanks for the response!
 
Congrats on your recent graduation and upcoming college adventure. 🙂

I would recommend two great books that might be helpful (in addition to the Bible and Catechism, of course): Disorientation: How to Go to College Without Losing Your Mind and How to Defend the Faith Without Raising Your Voice: Civil Responses to Catholic Hot Button Issues.

These two books are a great to help you recognize the unspoken intellectual assumptions of those around you (the first book) and how to respond to them clearly, concisely, and kindly (the second one).

Not that you’ll need more books to read. 😛 But these are both relatively short, easy-to-read, and very helpful.

I’ll say a prayer for you as you embark on your college journey.
 
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