Staying Catholic in College

[manila]

Can anyone confirm the statistic that 70% of those who practiced Catholicism before college did not during college? About a year ago, a Catholic college evangelizer who came to my church told me this statistic. And furthermore, why do you think the statistic is so?

In college right now, I also have much questions about my faith. I’ve been feeling there is too much pressure to do the right thing all the time. I have had thoughts about being atheist or another religion, but my family has a deep catholic faith. I guess I “know” that the Catholic religion is the true church, but other practices seem more appealing and not so strict.

 

[NewUlm1976_2000]

That sounds about right. Many times Confirmation is just part of “going through the motions” of growing up. There is almost always a natural break in their spiritual growth where many break loose and live it up, which is a normal part of young adulthood. Some discover Campus Ministry (on Catholic college campuses) or Newman Centers (on public university campuses).

This young-adult gap holds until the late 20’s to early 30’s when it is time to start a family. Then many start to trickle back, (depending on the parish of course). Young Adult groups and Theology and Tap help somewhat, but it is a new child which really brings them back to the parish for their child(ren)'s sake, but not for the Church’s sake.

 

[InLight247]

………… but other practices seem more appealing and not so strict

Between the true Church and a more “appealing” practice, which one should you choose?

Would you give up receiving the Eucharist (the Real Presence of body, blood, soul and divinity of our Lord Jesus) for an easier and looser church teaching of another denomination?

I don’t see how anyone could leave the Church once he understands how authentic, rich, and precious the Catholic faith is.

I suggest you to read Scott Hahn’s “The Lamb’s Supper, Mass as Heaven on Earth” as a start.
At the same time, it will be good for you to join a Catholic group on campus.

God bless!

 

[sanctamaria17]

I notice that the kids who do practice in college do so b/c they want to outside of family pressure, I even know kids who converted or are in the process of converting (so I’m not the only convert, lol). I have the pleasure of knowing kids who are very devout and into their faith, especially the guys (see my post about one of my guy friends). And I’m not at a Catholic school, my school is very liberal, Protestant affiliated. Most of the people I’ve met are at least devout Christians or they are cool with anyone practicing any faith (including Christianity) because they appreciate free thought. As for whether it’s “cool” or not, I think most people here on campus could honestly care less about what’s cool.