How to start a ministry?

[Ravyn_Guiliani]

I converted to Catholicism from a background that not only included a Protestant fundy cult but also occultism. I would like to use the years of experience I have in paganism, witchraft, occultism, New Age, and even satanism to help others come out of the darkness. How might I get something like this started? Just start writing apologetic essays on the subjects and see if I can submit them to magazines or websites? I feel it is a real danger today that many people do not take seriously. And I was not adequately prepared (in RCIA) for some of the challenges I have had to face breaking free of the darkness, I would like to help others avoid the pitfalls.
Ravyn

 

[HailMary]

I’m not sure but start praying about it and ask your Guardian Angel for help.

 

[stbruno]

First I would start by getting a spiritual director and explain what you feel you are being called to do.

Secondly, follow his/her advice. More than likely it would include talking to your pastor to see if he would be receptive…after all you will need to have a meeting place, a way to announce your ministry and a way to promote it.
Third…go talk to your pastor.
Fourth…recruit others…no ministry is successful unless you include others in your efforts.
But before you do anything…pray, pray and pray some more.

 

[puzzleannie]

bruno has the best suggestions. follow up by finding out what your diocese already has in place, and with your pastor’s backing, work with the office of catechetics or adult ministry to start something. Be prepared by doing your homework, show what resources, books, videos etc. you would be using in such a presentation. Pastor or diocese won’t endorse you unless they know what you will be teaching and in what context. go for it, I think it is badly needed. You might want to start with a one-time presentation to HS or college kids.

 

[dhgray]

I feel your need to tell the world…to shout it from the mountain top. I too am a convert to the faith. Best thing to do is to read…start with the CCC and other bible studies. Look across CA (cahtolic.com) library and study the faith. Read anti-Catholic litature and arm yourself with the truth. You can also get lots of answers here.

Best thing to do is study and learn. You can evangalize others by the way you act more than by words. God Bless you.