Told Not To Be Catholic?

[WonderingInDall]

If I had a reason, maybe I would feel better too, but I just get this strange “well where you go now sounds nice, why don’t you just stay there?” or “the church has a lot to work out right now”

Perhaps this is just God’s way of making sure that I’m following him, regardless of if I can feel entirely “sure” in my own knowledge… or most especially, regardless of what other’s say.

 

[camerong]

If I can put in my two cents, as a recent convert…

I majored in Theology, and at my time the University, I’ve studied a number of different faith traditions, inside and out of Catholicism. What is remarkable to me about Catholicism is how intelligent and well-reasoned it is, while still being so deeply spiritually real. The intellectual “heavy weights” of Protestant traditions absolutely pale in contrast with even the relatively unknown Catholic theologians. No faith tradition so boldly confronts truth, with as much respect for real expertise and science, while remaining so internally consistent, as Catholicism. (These are things you already suspect, but it might help to have them reaffirmed nevertheless.)

One phenomenon I noticed, especially studying non-Catholic theology, was how many of the pros in the field were pretty much studying fantasy–I mean they were studying Christianity, but it ended for them as an intellectual pursuit. For a long time I thought that no one could have it both ways, the spirituality of the mystic as well as the understanding and education of a theologian. But that is exactly what I found in Catholicism.

It sounds as if you’re well-versed in the apologetics of Catholicism, but let me say that this is only a start to understanding and expressing the glorious truths of our faith. Apologetics (necessary as it may be), as my priest-professor used to say, is always limited because it is trying to prove a point. It is not open to discovery. Look into the theology, into the vastly diverse yet harmonious understandings of God by the Church’s wealth of nearly supernaturally-brilliant theologians, and you can see even more of the true beauty of what the apologists are hinting at. If you haven’t the time, take my word for it–the waters run so, so much deeper in Catholicism. So deep, in fact, that it is often difficult to see to the bottom; but that only means there is so much more to discover.

There are times some of the things we do seem kind of nuts (I like to tell my wife, a cradle Catholic, how crazy “you Catholics” are ) but it helps to know that many of the very most intelligent people in modern times and in history pray(ed) the Rosary just like we do.

 

[cbsjrcol]

After several years of searching and study, I believe I have been convicted of truth of the Catholic Church. The problem? Everyone I know that I’ve told has told me, “You really don’t want to become Catholic right now…”

So I’m trying to find a parish on my own, and I have no idea where to start. Does anyone know of any good parishes in or around Dallas, TX? I know the diocese’s website, but I would really like a recommendation - I have two young children, so I want to do a lot of “pre-work” so that I’m not bouncing them all around the county unnecessarily.

Thank you for any advice you have. I must admit the “You really shouldn’t become Catholic” thing is messing w/ my head, and making me doubt my research/thoughts.

My brother is very active at St Ann’s in Coppell. I could put you in contact with him if you want!

God’s Peace

 

[Dorothy]

Catholics who are not enthusiastic about your telling them you want to be Catholic perplexes me.

This would not be the way a devoted Catholic would act with such news. Perhaps you can find a church with a great RCIA program and go with that.

Someone mentioned St. Anthony’s in Wylie, Texas, and that they have a great RCIA program. (not far from Dallas). Although I live in the south, I have been there more than once when I went to visit my son and family. My opinion is that it is a great parish!

 

[Marsha_Adams]

If you want to go to a conservative parish with English Masses, find a parish that has regular adoration and it will probably suit your needs.

 

[Student09]

I heard a Journey Home program in which the guest said that when he first told a priest he wanted to become Catholic, the priest said, “Why would you want to do that? Aren’t you one of those Anglicans? They’re such nice people.” That was in the seventies or eighties, if I remember correctly.

The guest converted anyway. He didn’t seem to have any regrets!

 

[ccolley2]

If I had a reason, maybe I would feel better too, but I just get this strange “well where you go now sounds nice, why don’t you just stay there?” or “the church has a lot to work out right now”

Perhaps this is just God’s way of making sure that I’m following him, regardless of if I can feel entirely “sure” in my own knowledge… or most especially, regardless of what other’s say.

“If I am right, thy grace impart still in thy right to stay. If I am wrong, oh teach my heart to find the better way.”
Elizabeth Anne Seton, Saint, and founder of the Sisters of Charity, in personal prayer just before her conversion to the Catholic Faith from Anglicanism.

Elizabeth Anne Seton’s Life can be found here…emmitsburg.net/setonshrine/
I am to St. Elizabeth Anne for you.
CC

 

[PJM]

If you want to go to a conservative parish with English Masses, find a parish that has regular [Eucharistic] adoration and it will probably suit your needs.

This is very good advice:thumbsup:

I would add, that if the parish offers also the Latin Mass, it’s a real winner!

Love and prayers,

Pat

 

[WonderingInDall]

Thank you all so much for the prayers - they mean so much to us. We have called the diocese (and are waiting on a call back), but will definitely check out St. Anthony’s in Wylie, possibly St. Ann’s as well.

The “I can’t believe people would say that…” response that I’m getting here really helps me to feel better… LOL. At the end of the day its all about following Jesus, but its a little unnerving when you are trying to step out in faith and people that you would think would WANT you to “come over” are like “eh… not really,” you know?

Thank you thank you thank you all for the prayers and comments - I appreciate them more than you can know.

 

[PJM]

-Thank you all so much for the prayers - they mean so much to us. We have called the diocese (and are waiting on a call back), but will definitely check out St. Anthony’s in Wylie, possibly St. Ann’s as well.

The “I can’t believe people would say that…” response that I’m getting here really helps me to feel better… LOL. At the end of the day its all about following Jesus, but its a little unnerving when you are trying to step out in faith and people that you would think would WANT you to “come over” are like “eh… not really,” you know?

Thank you thank you thank you all for the prayers and comments - I appreciate them more than you can know.

Remember my friend,

When life is not going smoothly, or as we would like, it nevertheless is going according to God’s Divine Provential Plan. “If you would come after Me, take up your Cross and follow Me.”

The bumps in the road of life are intended to keep us alert and focused on the GREATER things

You’re doing good, keep praying and trust in how very much God loves you!

Love and prayers,

Pat

 

[Linda_Marie]

The “I can’t believe people would say that…” response that I’m getting here really helps me to feel better… LOL. At the end of the day its all about following Jesus, but its a little unnerving when you are trying to step out in faith and people that you would think would WANT you to “come over” are like “eh… not really,” you know?

Well, from what you have said, their arguments against becoming Catholic are somewhat nebulous and have nothing of substance. If they say something like that again, ask why they are still Catholic and why do they go to Mass every Sunday. You just may get them to examine their own faith more deeply and come to know what a treasure they have in the Eucharist.

In the meantime, pray for them and continue to follow what God is telling you.

May God bless you.
Linda

 

[crazzeto]

After several years of searching and study, I believe I have been convicted of truth of the Catholic Church. The problem? Everyone I know that I’ve told has told me, “You really don’t want to become Catholic right now…”

So I’m trying to find a parish on my own, and I have no idea where to start. Does anyone know of any good parishes in or around Dallas, TX? I know the diocese’s website, but I would really like a recommendation - I have two young children, so I want to do a lot of “pre-work” so that I’m not bouncing them all around the county unnecessarily.

Thank you for any advice you have. I must admit the “You really shouldn’t become Catholic” thing is messing w/ my head, and making me doubt my research/thoughts.

cathdal.org/

There’s a very convinent “parish finder” utility that I wish my Diocese had.

 

[fdesales]

Any so called practicing Catholics that are telling you not to become Catholic have some issues with the Church. I wouldn’t take their advice, and I wouldn’t go to them for questions about Catholicism. They are clearly lacking in adequate catechesis.

Good advice.

When someone belongs to an organization - and tells you not to join - and yet, they remain in it freely - it makes you wonder what is going on upstairs in their mind… More than likely, they go to Mass out of habit and have no clue on what is going on at the greatest of prayers. If they were aware, they would point out how they experience Jesus Christ, the Son of God, close and personal, in the Eucharist. How can a good Christian suggest that one NOT come to meet Jesus in this unique manner???

Regards

 

[PJM]

Good advice.

When someone belongs to an organization - and tells you not to join - and yet, they remain in it freely - it makes you wonder what is going on upstairs in their mind… More than likely, they go to Mass out of habit and have no clue on what is going on at the greatest of prayers. If they were aware, they would point out how they experience Jesus Christ, the Son of God, close and personal, in the Eucharist. How can a good Christian suggest that one NOT come to meet Jesus in this unique manner???

Regards

Dear friend,

For those God blesses with an opportunity to select a parish to join, both a signifiant opportunity, and a sugnifiant obligation exist.

From the perspective of stats published by the PEW Report in 2008 and as Christ Himself instructs us: “By there fruits you shall know them,” that reveal that "Fallen away catholics are the second largest christian denomination in America, second only to what one prays are TRUE Catholics, ones choice of parish can be either helpful or dentremental to the condition of your souls.

Given the number of innovations over the past 40 -50 years and the obvious loss of souls caused in great part by them, further given the recent permission by Rome for priest to on “there own authority” to use The Extrodinary Form of the Sacred Liturgy, and the Popes personal example of ONLY giving Holy Communuion on the tongue and kneeling, as signs of “latria” God Only centered Worship, one should seek a parish that at least as options, offers these practices, without disparagement.

Faith is a gift from God, greatly aided by personal piety, and especially improved where there is regular Expositition of the Blessed Sacrament. Those are to be considered as priamry and essential elements is selecting a new parish.

May Guide your search!

Love and prayers,

Pat

 

[jtexman24]

My family and I go to St. Anthony’s parish in Wylie and we love it.
The Mater Dei community (fssp) is also wonderful. Fr. Longua is a
great priest.

As for your Catholic “friends” who bad-mouth the Church, turn the
other way when you see them coming. If they only knew how the
heart of Jesus grieved at their lukewarm attitude…

I’m a convert who came into the Church 6 years ago and I can tell you
that the water is warm. You won’t regret it.

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!”

 

[PJM]

“Great Post” THANKS,

Welcome to Thee Forum:thumbsup:

 

[fisherman_carl]

For some people, Catholic or not, going to church becomes just a tradition that they do every Sunday. Without a genuine faith in what they are doing they simply go through the motions and are never satisfied. They are never satisfied with church because they don’t have a relationship with the person Jesus. They do not partake in spiritual things, they only partake in the motions of tradition. They have the structure but not the spirit. In order to fully participate in church we need to have both the spirit and the structure. Our focus should be on receiving Jesus in the Eucharist, not merely bread but the actual person of Christ, the LORD, who died for our sins on a cross because of his great love for us.

God Bless

 

[PJM]

For some people, Catholic or not, going to church becomes just a tradition that they do every Sunday. Without a genuine faith in what they are doing they simply go through the motions and are never satisfied. They are never satisfied with church because they don’t have a relationship with the person Jesus. They do not partake in spiritual things, they only partake in the motions of tradition. They have the structure but not the spirit. In order to fully participate in church we need to have both the spirit and the structure. Our focus should be on receiving Jesus in the Eucharist, not merely bread but the actual person of Christ, the LORD, who died for our sins on a cross because of his great love for us.

God Bless

Amen

Thanks Carl, welcome to The Forum!

 

[Kindness]

WonderinginDal as a convert myself I would just emphasize that this is a process and a journey, a journey deeper into God that we continue all our lives. This is not a decision that is a snap-judgement, you can join a parish and RCIA with all your questions, doubts and confusion, God will reveal all to you in good time. We are all in a unique relationship with Jesus and the action of the Holy Spirit within us will be as individual as we are. Therefore what draws you to the church may be very different from another convert or even cradle Catholic. I would say come to the water and drink, let the Holy Spirit woo you and if ever other peoples’ comments confuse you just come here or talk to a Priest, a director of RCIA or read the Catechism.

I love the church and am so grateful for all God has given me and continues to give me, trust in the Holy Spirit and welcome to the all the spiritual richness, depth and beauty of the church.

P.S. I would also recommend you purchase (or borrow from a parish) a Catholic bible. I would personally recommend the New Jerusalem Bible as it is so beautiful and poetic.

 

[fdesales]

Dear friend,

For those God blesses with an opportunity to select a parish to join, both a signifiant opportunity, and a sugnifiant obligation exist.

From the perspective of stats published by the PEW Report in 2008 and as Christ Himself instructs us: “By there fruits you shall know them,” that reveal that "Fallen away catholics are the second largest christian denomination in America, second only to what one prays are TRUE Catholics, ones choice of parish can be either helpful or dentremental to the condition of your souls.

Given the number of innovations over the past 40 -50 years and the obvious loss of souls caused in great part by them, further given the recent permission by Rome for priest to on “there own authority” to use The Extrodinary Form of the Sacred Liturgy, and the Popes personal example of ONLY giving Holy Communuion on the tongue and kneeling, as signs of “latria” God Only centered Worship, one should seek a parish that at least as options, offers these practices, without disparagement.

Faith is a gift from God, greatly aided by personal piety, and especially improved where there is regular Expositition of the Blessed Sacrament. Those are to be considered as priamry and essential elements is selecting a new parish.

May Guide your search!

Love and prayers,

Pat

Pat,

I am not sure how this addresses my point, that people who mindlessly attend Mass just out of habit are not good sources of whether the Church is “the right place to worship” or to take their advice not to join the Catholic Church…

Personally, I do not understand the hoopla over the rituals. They are NOT ends, they are means by which we have a relationship with Jesus Christ. They are not magical incantations - they depend upon God, not the minister. If someone leaves the Church over such things, their faith in God was not very strong to begin with…

Regards