Here’s a list of some of the things I love about the Church that have solidified my decision to become Catholic. This was originally an email to a friend and I was excited, so my wording may not be the most theologically sound, but you get the gust!
-Accountability is big. You are held accountable by a priest by going to confession. So many times I have tried to stop doing something or start doing something but I haven’t because I have no self-control and no one to hold me accountable.
-Being Catholic affects your day-to-day living if you are really into being Catholic. For example, I can pray the liturgy of the hours or go to daily mass. There should be a crucifix over one’s bed.
-Novenas
-Saints! No one has to feel like no one understands ever again. There are a bajillion saints and at least one of them has lived through what you’ve been through. They are praying for you! You have a bajillion saints praying for you! That feels so good! God’s closest friends are praying for YOU and talking to God about YOU!
-Jesus is here. We don’t have to pray to ask him to come because he is in the bread and wine.
-Priests, calling them “Father”
-Special prayers
-The rosary
-Church buildings-are always beautiful, and not just some room in a school or movie theater.
-The symbolism of everything. Everything in mass is symbolic. Wearing medals, etc.
-How Catholics say “Welcome Home” to someone who is converting
-Rituals help you get closer to God and learn more about Him.
-Holy water-I like how I have a wet spot on my forehead for the first five minutes. It is a constant five minute reminder of what to focus on. That sensation gets me “in the mood.”
-It costs something-your whole heart. Either you are Catholic or you aren’t. Being Catholic requires so much more of you and you receive so much more in return. It isn’t as easy as showing up every Sunday. You have to live it. It holds you accountable.
-The church calendar, especially Lent and how there are readings for each day. Makes devotional Bible reading so meaningful!
-How the most misunderstood aspects are usually the most beautiful.
