Wandering

[Tommy2Tone]

Hello all. I am and have been an Atheist my whole life, but I am still young (18). Out of all religions Catholicism seems to make the most sense to me after reading the Bible. My fiancee whom I have a child and possibly another on the way is also a Catholic. I was wondering more about some of the ideas, teachings, and lifestyles of Catholics. As my fiancee and I do not live together, because of her parents they won’t let us communicate. I am doing this more for myself than for her, because I want to feel spiritual guidance in my life and have something strong I can believe in. So any information would be greatly appreciated, along with prayers that are often used, what goes on during mass, differences between Catholic religion and Christian religions, and what would be needed of me to become Catholic. I hope for much helpful information, and one day to have faith and be a part of your religion. Also I am Italian decent, much of my immediate family is not religious, but older generations were Roman Catholic if that helps, thanks all.

 

[kristie_m]

Welcome!

I think the very best piece of advice that I could give you is to contact your local parish, and inquire about RCIA classes. This is the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Basically, they will help guide you in the faith, and if you so desire, prepare you to receive the sacraments and be initiated into the church. You can also go to Mass, and Eucharistic Adoration, just be aware, that it would not yet be appropriate to receive communion, as there is a lot of preparation and instruction needed to receive for the first time.

You will get some conflicting messages here on CAF…most of them well meaning, but not always accurate. Best bet is to talk to someone in person, from your local parish.

Praying for you on your journey!

 

[Hiskid1973]

Reading your post made me think of the parable of the lost sheep and how the shepherd takes off looking for it…God desires a relationship with each of His creation and is always waiting for them…I saw you ask for prayers but reach out to Him now in your own heartfelt pleas…Open up your heart to receive Him and He will change you from the inside out…Seek Him wit all your heart and you will find Him…Personally, I feel we are living in the times of Christ’s return and satan is working overtime to destroy life…But God is moving mightily among us…May the Lord bless you, guide you and draw you close to Him…I know this is nothing about becoming Catholic but as you come to Him, He will guide you where you can learn and grow among His people…Blessings in Christ…Kim

 

[JanetF]

Hello all. I am and have been an Atheist my whole life, but I am still young (18). Out of all religions Catholicism seems to make the most sense to me after reading the Bible. My fiancee whom I have a child and possibly another on the way is also a Catholic. I was wondering more about some of the ideas, teachings, and lifestyles of Catholics. As my fiancee and I do not live together, because of her parents they won’t let us communicate. I am doing this more for myself than for her, because I want to feel spiritual guidance in my life and have something strong I can believe in. So any information would be greatly appreciated, along with prayers that are often used, what goes on during mass, differences between Catholic religion and Christian religions, and what would be needed of me to become Catholic. I hope for much helpful information, and one day to have faith and be a part of your religion. Also I am Italian decent, much of my immediate family is not religious, but older generations were Roman Catholic if that helps, thanks all.

Tommy, check out the Faith section of this website, there is all sorts of valuable information about catholicism. Borrow or purchase a copy of the catechism of the catholic church. If you have access to a catholic bookstore, you might spend some time there looking over some of the books they have about Church history. Call a local parish and ask to speak to a priest, explain why and hopefully they will bend over backwards to help you

Best of luck in your spiritual journey.

 

[Catholic1954]

Welcome Home! The Holy Spirit is calling you into the Catholic Church. Your first step would be to find a parish where you are comfortable in attending Mass every week. Catholics are obliged to attend Mass EVERY Sunday, so this is important. Like people, Catholic parishes have different personalities, so you might have to try several before you find one that fits. You should attend a Mass as soon as possible, Anyone can go to Mass at a Catholic church, but it would be great if you can find a Catholic friend or family member to go with you the first few times, to walk you through it, but if you don’t have anyone, you can still go on your own. Just remember that you must refrain from receiving Communion. After you have attended Mass, you should call the parish office and ask about entering their RCIA program. You can also make a appointment with the pastor or another priest, who will be happy to answer your questions and address any concerns (you will have them!). If you are a reader, you might want to pick up a copy of “Catholicism for Dummies”, it does a pretty good job of explaining the Faith to people who are not already Catholic, and you can also check out EWTN television network and their website. They are true to the Pope, the teachings of the Church, and are a wonderful source (like Catholic Answers!) of all things Catholic.