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RebeccaJ
Guest
Go to Mass and take note of what you like about it. For one, it is unfamiliar, the people are strangers, and you just might be a little more sensitive to feeling “out of place”. You aren’t out of place. Everyone should be there, even the grumpy ones.
Pray for patience. Pray for God’s guidance.
Pray for patience. Pray for God’s guidance.
K
Kay_Cee
Guest
You know, I would have been tempted to say, “Sorry, I didn’t realize your hair is more important than my immortal soul.”
I wouldn’t have actually said it, but I sure would have been tempted!
You come across as someone dedicated to getting close to Christ. So I’m surprised you allowed other people’s bad behavior to have so much power over you.
I’d like to take a moment to speak as someone who has been made late by another person in the confessional (this individual took about half an hour). Frankly, I find it a cause for rejoicing. Either this person was confessing a lot, or the priest was giving him a lot of guidance and counseling. Besides, it gave me more time for prayer in front of the Blessed Sacrament, and what could I do with my time that was more valuable than that?
Next time you go to confession, take as long as you need. Your soul is worth infinitely more than the entire world. If you happen to be in front of me, don’t worry about it. I’ll be in the pew, rejoicing.
K
kalt
Guest
If you want to find faith in the one true church, you must first renounce Satan and his allies, The Red Sox.
Conversion is what you need. There is a Mass being said this week by the Pope in Yankee Stadium. Doesn’t that speak volumes?
OK, seriously. I know what you mean about the colder atmosphere in a lot of Catholic parishes as compared to a lot of Protestant churches. However, it seems that you’re picking your religion based on how much you like or dislike the attitude of the religion’s adherents.
Grumpy old women–They’re everywhere. The ones at church are nothing compared to the ones in the market, but that doesn’t stop you from buying groceries where you know the prices are right, does it?
You’re tough. You can take it. It’s time to cowboy up!
G
guanophore
Guest
I think you answered your own question. Jesus is calling all of us to demonstrate our love not by how well we “feel” when we gather, but how well we manifest faith, hope and love. It is to love these “old coots” that is our calling, so that others can love us when we get to be that way! May it never be! But, we are to bear one another’s burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ (love). Such a person does not just “happen” to cross your path when you exit the confessional. On the contrary, Jesus put that person there to make sure you are not depending on how you feel, or how others treat you.
This is a great example of how the Father allows us to be tested to find out if we are really serious about taking up our crosses and carrying them. I had a very similar experience. I came for confession, and planned to stay for Sat. eve. Mass, but there was a film crew and a wedding party using the altar like a photo studio. I was so put out when I could not have my “sacred” quiet prayer time I did not stay for Mass. Intolerance is within each of us, and it is our call to get past these things and focus on the prize, who is Christ.
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guanophore
Guest
Yes. This is our duty. By such sacrifice are we perfected in Christ. Maybe a better way to say it is “get through it”, because only through prayer and grace can we love as He loves.
Oh, I don’t agree with this at all! The problem is that we can 't change other people, only ourselves. Though their fault is their responsibility, it does affect us. It is the effects that we must cope with, and since we are able to make decisions for ourselves how we will handle rudeness (with forgiveness and kindess - turning the other cheek) then that is where we need to focus. I still pray, however, that the Spirit will show them their fault.
I agree, but you can’t “make” others be loving and polite to you. All you can do is be responsible for your part. Bearing it patiently when we are treated in an unkind manner is part of our witness. I think that is one reason that rude and impatient people are put into our path, so we can pray for them.
M
manualman
Guest
To the OP:
So basically, you are picking your religious ‘truth’ based on how the experience makes you feel, right? Honestly now, think about that. Are emotions really the best way to discern truth from error?
Please also recall that there is a basic philosophical difference between the catholic idea of ‘church’ and the protestant. In the catholic church, the weeds grow right next to the wheat, no argument there. But Jesus told us to expect that! Instead of treating the grumps and pew sitters as something stinky on the bottom of our shoes, we are to see them as people to share the love of Christ with!
Many protestants have a “retreat and regroup” approach to church. When a congregation becomes ‘contaminated’ with the lukewarm, the faithful often uproot and go join an ‘on-fire’ church or ‘plant’ a new one. That works great for a generation or so until lukewarmness appears there too. Eventually you have tens of thousands of differing denominations. My question is: who’s left to be a witness to the abandoned congregations? Who stops the activists from turning the infrastructure of the old denomination into something evil? Nobody.
So basically, you are picking your religious ‘truth’ based on how the experience makes you feel, right? Honestly now, think about that. Are emotions really the best way to discern truth from error?
Please also recall that there is a basic philosophical difference between the catholic idea of ‘church’ and the protestant. In the catholic church, the weeds grow right next to the wheat, no argument there. But Jesus told us to expect that! Instead of treating the grumps and pew sitters as something stinky on the bottom of our shoes, we are to see them as people to share the love of Christ with!
Many protestants have a “retreat and regroup” approach to church. When a congregation becomes ‘contaminated’ with the lukewarm, the faithful often uproot and go join an ‘on-fire’ church or ‘plant’ a new one. That works great for a generation or so until lukewarmness appears there too. Eventually you have tens of thousands of differing denominations. My question is: who’s left to be a witness to the abandoned congregations? Who stops the activists from turning the infrastructure of the old denomination into something evil? Nobody.
A
angelroompatti
Guest
as I have not read all I apologize if I repeat someone…
my mother stopped going to church when I was 10 I started going to Protestant churches (all denomins) at 18… 40 years later… 3 years ago I returned to the church… I was blessed with an awesome pastor whos homilies are always food directing to the Lord.
but, in those three years I have not developed one friend there(hang on this is not a negative post) peoples lives are really busy… I work out of the house…and I was not able to have children…(so that limits development) I am in an age range that it is difficult to develope friends… I have particpated in church… teaching children… have cantored twice and in choir , but developing friendship as been an issue. but this is not a personal thing it is just what life has handed me and I CHOOSE to be joyful in life as it is.
and most importantly I treasure the Mass, I treasure the fullness of the faith.
I encourage you to be strong… there will always be someone who is not strong or mature in the faith, and there will always be someone elses temperment that can offend, I say sooo… who is he or she to me that my feelings get hurt… (agree pray for them, cause believe you me they will not lose sleep over you)
, remember the Catholic faith is not a feeling… ( on our part) is loving and serving and being obedient to what God has called us to.
when I started attending Mass… 11 o’clock it seems like a zoo to me… people trailing in (that I admit gets to me) and babies who have had it by consecration…so I went to vigil… lovely… then when dh was not able to go I decided to join 8:30 am choir… lovely people… but there was so much prep motion I felt I hadn’t worshiped at all… so left after Christmas… ironically dealing with babies is a piece of cake now! lol.
Now my suggestion is let Mass be Mass… forget about the cranky lady… (btw priests have reconcilation by appointment so you don’t have to feel rushed)
go to Mass at different times… find one that suites your temperment (you all know what I mean, style)
and when there is an issue in seating… go ahead and move, people will probably agree with you! (just don’t do it in a huff)
the fellowship part… save that for a group within the church get to know them with additional common interests and goals with the the Church.
I am so thankful to be home in the Catholic Church I wish you that joy and peace that comes from it.!
my mother stopped going to church when I was 10 I started going to Protestant churches (all denomins) at 18… 40 years later… 3 years ago I returned to the church… I was blessed with an awesome pastor whos homilies are always food directing to the Lord.
but, in those three years I have not developed one friend there(hang on this is not a negative post) peoples lives are really busy… I work out of the house…and I was not able to have children…(so that limits development) I am in an age range that it is difficult to develope friends… I have particpated in church… teaching children… have cantored twice and in choir , but developing friendship as been an issue. but this is not a personal thing it is just what life has handed me and I CHOOSE to be joyful in life as it is.
and most importantly I treasure the Mass, I treasure the fullness of the faith.
I encourage you to be strong… there will always be someone who is not strong or mature in the faith, and there will always be someone elses temperment that can offend, I say sooo… who is he or she to me that my feelings get hurt… (agree pray for them, cause believe you me they will not lose sleep over you)
, remember the Catholic faith is not a feeling… ( on our part) is loving and serving and being obedient to what God has called us to.
when I started attending Mass… 11 o’clock it seems like a zoo to me… people trailing in (that I admit gets to me) and babies who have had it by consecration…so I went to vigil… lovely… then when dh was not able to go I decided to join 8:30 am choir… lovely people… but there was so much prep motion I felt I hadn’t worshiped at all… so left after Christmas… ironically dealing with babies is a piece of cake now! lol.
Now my suggestion is let Mass be Mass… forget about the cranky lady… (btw priests have reconcilation by appointment so you don’t have to feel rushed)
go to Mass at different times… find one that suites your temperment (you all know what I mean, style)
and when there is an issue in seating… go ahead and move, people will probably agree with you! (just don’t do it in a huff)
the fellowship part… save that for a group within the church get to know them with additional common interests and goals with the the Church.
I am so thankful to be home in the Catholic Church I wish you that joy and peace that comes from it.!
C
Carolinagirl411
Guest
I am a protestant (baptist) convert to Catholicism. The funny thing about the other posts is that I always fell ostracized by the Baptists and welcome in the Church. The people my age that attended the Baptist church only went for social connections and the food after. They would treat you all warm and fuzzy up front but then return to their cliques and leave you high and dry and all by yourself. I knew something was missing. The first time I went to Mass with the serious intention of joining the Church I felt at peace. I could sit by myself and not feel odd. That’s how I felt Christ was there b/c I wasn’t alone, He was there. The people were warm and inviting and over a year later, they still are.
Granted I started having doubts when I joined this thread b/c so many people were angry, bitter, judgmental, and possessed a self righteous holier than thou attitude. Then I realized it wasn’t for the people I joined the Church it was b/c Christ was there. As long as He is in the Church that is where I should be regardless of snippy people.
Granted I started having doubts when I joined this thread b/c so many people were angry, bitter, judgmental, and possessed a self righteous holier than thou attitude. Then I realized it wasn’t for the people I joined the Church it was b/c Christ was there. As long as He is in the Church that is where I should be regardless of snippy people.
R
Redsox
Guest
Thanks to all in this forum I really appreciate the advice from all and I will pray for all and hope i will be prayed for too…Thanx
A
Al_Masetti
Guest
Say the rosary every day.
Say this prayer several times a day: “Dear Lord, Please hold me in your arms, forgive me my sins, and make me the way you want me to be. Holy Spirit, please provide me with direction, guidance, cash flow and work.”
Go to daily Mass; just sit in the back and let God’s grace work on you.
Put me on your prayer list and I will put you on my prayer list.
Say this prayer several times a day: “Dear Lord, Please hold me in your arms, forgive me my sins, and make me the way you want me to be. Holy Spirit, please provide me with direction, guidance, cash flow and work.”
Go to daily Mass; just sit in the back and let God’s grace work on you.
Put me on your prayer list and I will put you on my prayer list.
S
Singinbeauty
Guest
I don’t want to derail this thread at all but I have a question,
Why would someone attending a protestant church mean they were being led by the devil? Does this mean you think protestants are led by the devil?
I would have to STRONGLY disagree with that!
One thing that I have learned, RedSox. Don’t let someone else block you from God. Whether family, friends, or the old lady who wants to touch up the grey. If you feel you should be in Mass then by all means, that is where God wants ya, so that is where you are. He is all that matters. But if you experience the Holy Spirit (who is also God) in the protestant church then perhaps that is where He wants you. Go where God wants you, not where others may dictate you should be.
Why would someone attending a protestant church mean they were being led by the devil? Does this mean you think protestants are led by the devil?
I would have to STRONGLY disagree with that!
One thing that I have learned, RedSox. Don’t let someone else block you from God. Whether family, friends, or the old lady who wants to touch up the grey. If you feel you should be in Mass then by all means, that is where God wants ya, so that is where you are. He is all that matters. But if you experience the Holy Spirit (who is also God) in the protestant church then perhaps that is where He wants you. Go where God wants you, not where others may dictate you should be.
G
graceandglory
Guest
I’m right with ya Redsox. The old coots are keeping people from entering the Church. It happened to me when I converted with my evangelical children 3 1/2 yrs ago. It was our first Christmas Midnight Mass, and my 3 yr old daughter was squirmy. The old coot gave me the dirtiest look. As if to say: “How DARE you bring your squirmy child to MIDNIGHT MASS, when I am dressed up to the hilt looking my most beautiful self, and want to be entertained with the best Mass of the year.”
Satan is going to pull out the big guns to do what is necessary to keep you from being in full communion with the one, holy and apostolic Church, and the FULLNESS OF FAITH.
My daughter is 3 yrs older, still squirmy and not well-behaved, but I rarely encounter the old coots anymore. I really do think there was something in the spiritual realm going on in that encounter.
Come back, remember there will always be tares growing alongside the wheat in our churches until Jesus comes again.
Please come back, and Stay!!!
G
graceandglory
Guest
Hi Singinbeauty. I enjoy your posts. I have to disagree with you here. “Experiencing the holy spirit” has nothing to do with the TRUTH. It is a feeling. God gave us each a brain to use to discern truth and to discern the will of God. We are different from the animals because God made us in His image. We use REASON with our FAITH to know God’s Will for our lives.But if you experience the Holy Spirit (who is also God) in the protestant church then perhaps that is where He wants you. Go where God wants you, not where others may dictate you should be.
We are commanded to worship in Spirit AND Truth. If your feelings “tell you” that the Holy Spirit is there, that is nothing more than divination, and it’s wrong.
S
Singinbeauty
Guest
How can Truth and God be separated? If the Holy Spirit is in the protestant church then God is there, therefore, Truth is there.
By saying that just having the Holy Spirit there is nothing more than ‘divination’ as you call it then you say that just having God there is not enough.
God is ALWAYS enough. Feeling the Holy Spirit is His way of revealing Himself to you. It is a great and wonderful thing. If you find that in a protestant church, better that than not feeling or experiencing Him at all.
I am sorry, but I will have to kindly disagree with your assertion that God is not in the protestant community. (as you cannot separate God from Truth and if we hold no Truth then you say God is not present there)
I firmly believe that if you find God there, stick with Him and He will lead you where you need to be.
J
jmcrae
Guest
Good question, So, now we have to figure out whether the Holy Spirit can be in the Protestant churches.
Are they teaching what the Catholic Church (which is the Holy Spirit’s Church) teaches? If so, then yes. (And if so, then why not simply become reunited with the Catholic Church, instead of dividing away from it?)
If not, then no.
S
Singinbeauty
Guest
Well, according to some catholics we are led by the devil so I don’t doubt this is what some anti-protestants think. BUT doesn’t the catholic church even acknowledge that God uses and is involved with protestant churches?
J
jmcrae
Guest
Of course! But we are talking here about bringing atheists and the unchurched into a rudimentary knowledge of Jesus; not about pulling Catholics out of the fullness of the faith.
S
Singinbeauty
Guest
So how can He use and be involved with protestant churches if He isn’t there???
So we are back to the question… how can you separate God and Truth? It can’t be done.
If God is there and He has led you where you are, then you are where you are supposed to be. Are you going to stay there? Maybe, maybe not. But that is between you and God.
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