Poor Catechesis

[jericho777]

Exactly. My parents kept a large family bible in our living room as I was growing up, yet we NEVER read it. I have also heard Catholics say that it can be dangerous to read scripture because it can be so easily misunderstood. Well, yes it can but that is why you LEARN about it!!

When I grew up also reading it was frowned upon also. It was a place where you recorded births deaths and marriages. And the bigger the bible was the more spiritual you were

One of the Churches’ complaints against the reformation was letting the common person read the bible for themselves. And as you said were afraid people would misunderstand it. The King James was a response to let every body have the word of G-d in their own language. Most bibles were in Latin and few could read it.

When you can read the word of G-d for yourself it opens your eyes to the truth of who G-d really is. It allows you to ask questions. No longer can someone just tell you what it says or how to think but you can see and think for yourself. It allows accountability for all parties.

 

[twopekinguys]

Sadly, I’m certain the family member wouldn’t be open to this. She’s not open to conversation at all. She has a lot of anger at the Church, and I’m pretty certain I know what the issue is. I know just the priest who could help her, too, but she’s just not open. I’d appreciate it if you’d remember her in your prayers, along with my dad, who at age 80 recently left the Church, also with lack of understanding.

It’s a great idea to invite everyone to RCIA. The church I attend also invites Catholics, and we have several of them who attend, of all age ranges. I enrolled last year to make certain that I was understanding the Church correctly. Though I was, the priest has a way of putting things that added layers to what I already knew.

I actually belong to another parish (long story) and the CCD program there is as poor as mine was. My daughter completed it and was confirmed last year. I’ve taught her a lot, but to continue her learning, she wanted to take the same program I did last year, so I’m re-taking it with her. She’s 17 and the youngest there.

She invited a friend (age 18) who, last August, told me he didn’t know if he believed in God or not. Now he is talking to the priest about joining the Church.

THAT’S the power of a good program.

Sounds like you have a lot on your plate.

I will definitely keep you and your family in our prayers.

You made a very key statement, and that was about you teaching your daughter alot. Even the best CCD or RCIA program in the world is no substitute for parental involvement. Unfortunately, that doesn’t sink in with many parents.

I think what you are doing is very admirable.

You also brought up another interesting thing. Our pastor always says, “If you have an idea for a new ministry, then you are the person being called to lead it.” He also says that it applies to *improving *ministries within the parish.

Maybe you are being called to be a Catechist. (If you aren’t already), or even a DRE. Pray, and be open to it.