Need Encouragement- Conversion Cold Feet

[FaustinaFaith]

Hello! This is my first post here.

I am of a Protestant/Baptist background and am currently away at college. I am still very much a dependent of my parents. I come from a very sheltered background without ever doing much independently or making my own decisions. Over the last year, I have- quite by accident- fallen in love with the Catholic tradition. I adore the Eucharist (literally- I go to Adoration every morning for an hour!!) and I know that this church is where God is instructing me to go… or at least I did.

October-December of first semester I studied independently and made this choice pretty much on my own - I discovered the Eucharist and that whole branch of theology, started praying the Rosary, and asked intercession of specific saints, etc. I knew that this was where I was called. I felt the fire burning inside of me and I had never felt so alive in my faith.

I officially was approved to get confirmed this year (special circumstances) a few weeks ago and I finally told my parents what I had decided. They at first didn’t understand why I told them so abruptly but when they found out it was happening next month they were even angrier. My mom has reacted so negatively. She has practically cut off contact except to try to start theological debates where she tells me how aligning myself with this church means that I am condemning my family and everyone I love. sigh My dad told me covertly a few days ago that from his estimation of her reaction, if I go through with this “our relationship as a family is over”.

Her harsh comments, accusations, and theological hole-poking is wearing me down. She tells me I’m rushing because I seemingly made this decision right now, but really I made the decision in October… If I give indications that I’m not sure or that I won’t do it, then she goes back to being normal and happy again. With all of the pressure I’m feeling from her I feel unsure of my decision, that I want to still do it, but maybe I should wait a year… or more. I feel like I’m not ready.

I cognitively know I am ready- I’ve been interviewed and approved by 2 priests, a sister, and I’m more knowledgeable than I think everyone else in my RCIA class, but I still feel unsure.

…Help?

 

[Fraevo63]

@FaustinaFaith

I am concerned about your relationship with your parents, especially your mom. Before you fell in love with Catholicism did you pray with your mom and dad?
I think it would help your mom if you assured her that your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior has not changed because you are embracing the Catholic Church. She may be very upset right now thinking you aren’t trusting Christ the same as before. Let her know, Jesus is still and always will be your Savior and Lord. See if you can pray together with your parents. I hope this helps.
God bless.

 

[Dlee]

I had a similar situation - I spent time in adoration and asked God to make it clear. When I walked out, I had such a peace that the Catholic Church was the true Church. My family is still not happy about my choice, but it was my choice. This is the time where Satan knows he has one last chance. St. Michael, pray for us.

 

[sancte_trinitatis]

I too am a convert (Baptist) and understand where you’re coming from. My dad and grandma gave me grief about it. It caused problems in the family for a while. But my conviction was so strong, I knew that God would work it all out for me. And He did.
God will help you through this if you ask Him. As Dlee stated, Satan will make a point to try to thwart you. Stand firm knowing that God will aid you as you move forward.
You are in my prayers.

 

[Irishmom2]

I have invited @(name removed by moderator) to this thread, but you may want to go read some of her threads. You will find them of interest as she has a similar conversion story going on.

Some of her story is in this thread, OP, you may get something out of this thread.

I don't know where to put this, but I need help converting Spirituality

I’m a 15 y/o agnostic Baptist who has wished to devout himself to the Church, but I’m not sure how to ask my parents. I’ve prayed many times to try and get an answer, but I think this is a thing that’s too personal for God to get involved. My immediate family aren’t devout but my mom and my sister go to church here and there. So I figured I should ask my dad and then he can spread it or at least someone knows before I tell my mom. I just want someone to help me out and maybe give me ideas. I’m…

 

[Mary888]

Tell your mother that to love Christ through the eyes of His mother is not to love Him less, but to love Him more. She is a mother. She will understand.
Also make sure you let your family know you love them, and your ancestors, and you pray for nothing else but that you may see each other saved in Heaven.
God bless you.

 

[Saxum]

Here’s what Jesus said:

"Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.“

 

[Tis_Bearself]

Praying for all in this thread. It must be so hard when your parents are not supportive. My heart goes out to you.

Please make sure your family knows that you are not condemning them, but you’ve found the truth and you need to do what God is calling you to do.

Many saints have been in your position where their families did not approve of their Christianity and actively opposed them or even had them arrested. I don’t think your family will go that far. They will be upset for a while and then get over it. Pray for them and hang in there.

 

[jasonthechief]

I converted from Mormon to Catholic two years ago, much to the chagrin of my LDS parents. Ultimately it came down to going to the church established by Christ, that the Holy Spirit had called me to. It’s still a sore spot to some degree, but I think my certainty in the Catholic faith has made them see that it’s where I’m going to be, no matter their wishes. Just my opinion, but I doubt your mother’s stance will soften if you postpone receiving the sacraments for another year.

 

[Dan_Defender]

‘Do not take it to heart when you are deserted by a friend (or family member), knowing that in the end we must all be parted from one another.’ - The Imitation of Christ

 

[po18guy]

Go before Christ in the most Blessed Sacrament for spiritual strength and reassurance. As to family, ask them if it is OK for you to willingly violate your conscience, or if it is better to follow the leading of your conscience.

Oh, and while you are before our Lord, offer fervent prayer on behalf of those who persecute you. Works every time.