V
ValiantDomain
Guest
Thanks again to all. I plan on talking to my priest about my dilemma soon.
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V
ValiantDomain
Guest
I’ve been thinking a lot about this issue between last night and today and am starting to feel frustrated again…despite how much I try trusting in God.
Sometimes I want to give up and just become Episcopalian, but when I love the Church so much, I know I never could allow myself to do such. This is hard.
Pray for me.
Sometimes I want to give up and just become Episcopalian, but when I love the Church so much, I know I never could allow myself to do such. This is hard.
Pray for me.
V
vince2paul
Guest
I will pray for you. Don’t give up, there is something good waiting for you at the end of this suffering. Btw, how about praying novena to St. Jude since tomorrow is his feast day.
B
blessedstar
Guest
Be patient, persevere and I will offer my Eucharist for you, your circumstances and your intentions.
V
ValiantDomain
Guest
[sign]update [/sign]
Well, it seems I’ll get to attend RCIA sooner than expected! In fact, I should begin my first session this coming Wednesday night!
A lot has happened in the past few days, but I truly believe the Spirit is guiding me in making these pivotal decisions for my life. You see, one thing which I didn’t mention in my original post was that I have been questioning whether or not an MBA is something I truly want to be cracking away at. While an MBA does not necessarily mean I’d get stuck doing business/office work for a living, it does seem that most MBA graduates wind up doing something along those lines. While my original intent for pursuing an MBA was for me to grab an executive position in a top corporation and make lots of money, I realize now that “making money” is the wrong reason to do anything. This is evidenced by the fact that my heart has not been into my studies. While I make As and Bs and am doing well in my studies, I attribute this more to the fact that the Lord has given me the smarts to tackle any obstacle I put my mind towards. And so, having said that, I’m pulling out while I can.
I took the advice and began making intercessional prayers to St. Jude, and I, of course, have been steeped in prayer concerning all of this, and sometime Saturday, it struck me (for the third and final time) that I’m unhappy pursuing this MBA and would rather be devoting my time and money elsewhere. I’m fairly certain that I’ve not reached the end of the road of education, and while I do see some advantages of completing the MBA, the road appears to be far too long and expensive for me to remain sane.
The more I pray on this matter, the more certain I feel - the more assured I am that the Spirit is guiding me.
Soon after realizing this fact, I also realized I could begin RCIA, which thoroughly delighted my soul! I’ve contacted the necessary people, and should be hearing back from them soon - but one nice lady was able to tell that I shouldn’t have any difficulty beginning right away!
Thank you all for your prayers. I’ll keep you updated on further developments!
Well, it seems I’ll get to attend RCIA sooner than expected! In fact, I should begin my first session this coming Wednesday night!
A lot has happened in the past few days, but I truly believe the Spirit is guiding me in making these pivotal decisions for my life. You see, one thing which I didn’t mention in my original post was that I have been questioning whether or not an MBA is something I truly want to be cracking away at. While an MBA does not necessarily mean I’d get stuck doing business/office work for a living, it does seem that most MBA graduates wind up doing something along those lines. While my original intent for pursuing an MBA was for me to grab an executive position in a top corporation and make lots of money, I realize now that “making money” is the wrong reason to do anything. This is evidenced by the fact that my heart has not been into my studies. While I make As and Bs and am doing well in my studies, I attribute this more to the fact that the Lord has given me the smarts to tackle any obstacle I put my mind towards. And so, having said that, I’m pulling out while I can.
I took the advice and began making intercessional prayers to St. Jude, and I, of course, have been steeped in prayer concerning all of this, and sometime Saturday, it struck me (for the third and final time) that I’m unhappy pursuing this MBA and would rather be devoting my time and money elsewhere. I’m fairly certain that I’ve not reached the end of the road of education, and while I do see some advantages of completing the MBA, the road appears to be far too long and expensive for me to remain sane.
The more I pray on this matter, the more certain I feel - the more assured I am that the Spirit is guiding me.Soon after realizing this fact, I also realized I could begin RCIA, which thoroughly delighted my soul! I’ve contacted the necessary people, and should be hearing back from them soon - but one nice lady was able to tell that I shouldn’t have any difficulty beginning right away!
Thank you all for your prayers. I’ll keep you updated on further developments!
B
blessedstar
Guest
That’s wonderful, I am so very pleased for you.
Thank you Jesus and Mary.
Thank you Jesus and Mary.
K
Kevin42
Guest
Glad to hear that you are starting RCIA soon! There’s nothing better at making a day good than hearing someone else is coming home
! I’ll also pray that you find what God is leading you to do as far as education and profession go. Peace be with you, and keep us updated on anything new going on!
! I’ll also pray that you find what God is leading you to do as far as education and profession go. Peace be with you, and keep us updated on anything new going on!
J
Jlcastagna
Guest
Valiant,
Great glad to hear the good news. Keep us posted and know we will gladly assist you with any problems you might encounter, just ask for help.
May God bless and protect us,
JLC
Great glad to hear the good news. Keep us posted and know we will gladly assist you with any problems you might encounter, just ask for help.
May God bless and protect us,
JLC
L
lumbeerunner
Guest
Valiant…
Your words and passion for the Church reminded me of myself just over 4 years ago. I grew up in the Presbyterian Church and over time I knew there was more…then I met my wife and she help me find my way “home.” Please keep the desire and the passion…the Church needs it.
Now I am going to say something and I don’t want you to take offense…because it was something I needed to hear 5 years ago.
It’s not about you. At the beginning of your discourse you wrote about wanting to find a church where the beliefs “fit yours.” While I understand your feeling I also think you need to realize the beliefs and doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church were not invented to “fit” anyones belief…we were designed by God instead to “fit” into the Church’s eternal truth. I know you weren’t expressing arrogance by your statement but I would also warn you against a common ex-Protestant problem…“New Catholic snobbism.” I know because I had this for a while and sometimes still do. I truly believes it comes from a desire to want other to see, experience, hear, smell, and taste all that our Loving Father has done for us…especially what is given to us through the Church. As a result, we tend to gain an “I’m a better Catholic than the next guy” mentality but I assure you I don’t think it is of malicious intent. When you become a Catholic…and it will happen…pour your passionate heart into helping others (Catholics and non-Catholics alike) to learn about their faith. Get involved with RCIA and help make adjustments from “within.” You have come home…and you are knocking on the door. God hears you…but he opens the door on His time…not our own. It can be frustrating, even maddening, but know that if you firmly believe what you believe then keep knocking. Attend mass and confront the Eucharist with longing in your heart. Don’t take it as saying you are not good enough…as you have probably learned in your studies…Jesus established the church and the sacraments must follow the prescribed way…it was his will and that of his father.
Finally, I adamently agree with another post about the boundary rule being obsolete. There are many who still feel this is the case but it is not. I know this from experience. When I began attending RCIA I was in my last year of medical school. My schedule was inflexible at times so I had to set up two options for attending the necessary classes. On available Sundays I would drive 2 hours to a Parish where my future wife was living to attend classes after mass. I would then stay for the next mass and drive back (two more hours). Occasionally would make a local parish RCIA on Thursday nights. You may be encountering folks who are being dogmatic for the wrong (and misinformed reasons). But in the end…if you get “put off” again…don’t sit out another round. As hard as it may seem…you may need to put off educational plans for a semester or two, make up the classes later. You said you need to finish Grad school…but truth be told, you need to become Catholic. School will be there on the other side.
You are an inspiring testament to the power of Christ in the modern day. God be with you.
Aaron
Your words and passion for the Church reminded me of myself just over 4 years ago. I grew up in the Presbyterian Church and over time I knew there was more…then I met my wife and she help me find my way “home.” Please keep the desire and the passion…the Church needs it.
Now I am going to say something and I don’t want you to take offense…because it was something I needed to hear 5 years ago.
It’s not about you. At the beginning of your discourse you wrote about wanting to find a church where the beliefs “fit yours.” While I understand your feeling I also think you need to realize the beliefs and doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church were not invented to “fit” anyones belief…we were designed by God instead to “fit” into the Church’s eternal truth. I know you weren’t expressing arrogance by your statement but I would also warn you against a common ex-Protestant problem…“New Catholic snobbism.” I know because I had this for a while and sometimes still do. I truly believes it comes from a desire to want other to see, experience, hear, smell, and taste all that our Loving Father has done for us…especially what is given to us through the Church. As a result, we tend to gain an “I’m a better Catholic than the next guy” mentality but I assure you I don’t think it is of malicious intent. When you become a Catholic…and it will happen…pour your passionate heart into helping others (Catholics and non-Catholics alike) to learn about their faith. Get involved with RCIA and help make adjustments from “within.” You have come home…and you are knocking on the door. God hears you…but he opens the door on His time…not our own. It can be frustrating, even maddening, but know that if you firmly believe what you believe then keep knocking. Attend mass and confront the Eucharist with longing in your heart. Don’t take it as saying you are not good enough…as you have probably learned in your studies…Jesus established the church and the sacraments must follow the prescribed way…it was his will and that of his father.
Finally, I adamently agree with another post about the boundary rule being obsolete. There are many who still feel this is the case but it is not. I know this from experience. When I began attending RCIA I was in my last year of medical school. My schedule was inflexible at times so I had to set up two options for attending the necessary classes. On available Sundays I would drive 2 hours to a Parish where my future wife was living to attend classes after mass. I would then stay for the next mass and drive back (two more hours). Occasionally would make a local parish RCIA on Thursday nights. You may be encountering folks who are being dogmatic for the wrong (and misinformed reasons). But in the end…if you get “put off” again…don’t sit out another round. As hard as it may seem…you may need to put off educational plans for a semester or two, make up the classes later. You said you need to finish Grad school…but truth be told, you need to become Catholic. School will be there on the other side.
You are an inspiring testament to the power of Christ in the modern day. God be with you.
Aaron
B
bpbasilphx
Guest
<<
My story is one of continually searching for the one faith and religion which gives me a sense of comfort, sustenance, etc. and one which fits my own faith and beliefs like a glove. >>
It’s interesting how TRUTH doesn’t fit into your spiritual search at all, merely your own preferences.
In other words, you want your tummy patted and your ears tickled.
1 Timotny 2:3-4
3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
My story is one of continually searching for the one faith and religion which gives me a sense of comfort, sustenance, etc. and one which fits my own faith and beliefs like a glove. >>
It’s interesting how TRUTH doesn’t fit into your spiritual search at all, merely your own preferences.
In other words, you want your tummy patted and your ears tickled.
1 Timotny 2:3-4
3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
S
Saint_Gemma
Guest
I will pray for you,ValiantDomain. 
P
pray4peace
Guest
I am sorry you are so frustrated in not being able to get to RICA classes so you can come in full communion with the Church. I think there is a solution, take a break from your studies to do this very important thing for yourself and Jesus. Jesus never said the crosses we face would be easy. He is calling you to go to Him and that is why you are furstrated .
I will pray for you for strength and courage to let God lead you to His heart.
Blessings
I will pray for you for strength and courage to let God lead you to His heart.
Blessings
N
NaturalEnquirer
Guest
Oh come on. Here we have a guy who has done his homework and is committed to joining the Church, and you’re giving him grief about his choice of words?
Valiant: Congratulations! I hope your RCIA experience is great. I’m going through RCIA myself right now, and I share many of your feelings and frustrations. I’ll pray for you if you pray for me.
R
Roy5
Guest
There are many reasons why people do not choose to be Catholic.
Code:
Sometimes it's a matter of various doctrines, such as transubstantiation or the Marian emphasis. There is simply too much that they can't believe. (Actually, a Barna poll indicates that Catholics are quite a bit more skeptical of their theology than most Protestants are of theirs. Check the net for details.)
Sometimes it's a bad experience with a priest or with a Catholic school.
Sometimes it's resentment over what they see as gender discrimination against women.
Sometimes Catholics resent the 'one, true church' claim and prefer a church that is more ecumenical, less exclusive in its claims.
Sometimes Catholics visit one of those 'rocking' churches with a friend or relative, and they find it much more exciting than what they begin to view as a typical pre-packaged mass that has little spontaneity.
Sometimes Catholic congregations are just too big and some people prefer a smaller intimate church family.
As you can see, I'm struggling with the issue myself. I know so many who have fallen away from Catholicism, most of them to nothingness - possibly mass on Christmas and Easter - but many to one or another style of Protestantism.
I guess I honestly don't believe that God cares a hoot about the label. God looks at the heart. Jesus didn't mention any particular denomination, but summed everything up this way: love God and one another. That strikes me as the keystone and central 'doctrine' of Christianity.
J
Jlcastagna
Guest
Roy5,
Jesus did say to Peter in Mt 16:18 “You are Peter (Rock) and upon this Rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” Your right that Jesus did not mention any denomination because none existed there was only His Church, His true Bride. Now which Church could that be that has been around for 2000 years and had Peter as its leader (Rock). Does kind of narrow things down a bit huh?
I’ll continue to pray for you Valiant. Post here and let us know how things have been going for you.
May God bless and protect us,
JLC
Jesus did say to Peter in Mt 16:18 “You are Peter (Rock) and upon this Rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” Your right that Jesus did not mention any denomination because none existed there was only His Church, His true Bride. Now which Church could that be that has been around for 2000 years and had Peter as its leader (Rock). Does kind of narrow things down a bit huh?
I’ll continue to pray for you Valiant. Post here and let us know how things have been going for you.
May God bless and protect us,
JLC
D
distracted
Guest
I agree. The pathetic thing is that this kind of thing seems to happen a lot on these forums… I mean, wahtever happened to “love your neibhbor as yourself.”
Poster did have a valid point but ruined it by his/her choice of words…
Anyway, praying for you
(…all ya all
).
D
distracted
Guest
Only one problem: What is love?
I frankly don’t know many people who love very well. They love those who love them and that’s about it. They don’t seem to love the unlovable. I know ONE person who seems to be the exception. True, i don’t know all that many people. But the reason i don’t is because i stay away from them since i have been through a lot of Hell in my past dealings therewith…
Anyway, I agree that God doesn’t care about labels… but i don’t agree that it is irrelevant what religion a person is. Jesus established a Church and made it the way it is because He knew human nature, and also, well, He wanted to be in that Church 24/7. His physical Presence exists ONLY in the Catholic Church…
R
Roy5
Guest
(1) When Christ said he was building his church upon a rock, recall that Peter had just confessed him as Lord. Was Christ saying that he was building his church on Peter as a person or on the testimony Peter had just given? Not an easy question to answer with any certainty unless you consider the church your one and only authority. I prefer to ponder the scrptures myself. Is that a sin?
(2) Now, the notion that the Catholic Church is the only church in which Christ is physically present depends upon acceptance of transubstantiation - the dogma that through the priest bread and wine are transformed into the literal body and body of Christ during mass. I have trouble with that as do millions of modern Catholics. It smacks of the primitive notion that God is only satisfied with a blood (human) sacrifice. Besides, isn't Christ alive everywhere and at all times? Or, is that heresy?
M
milde
Guest
It never occurred to me to not become Catholic because of a Wednesday night scheduling conflict. Is this for real?? I thought it was a search for truth.
F
FCEGM
Guest
Roy, this thread is drifting into a discussion more suitable for the “Apologetics” or “Non-Catholic Religions” section, but to address briefly the above: It is not true to say that only Catholics have the understanding of Peter’s person as the rock. This belief is shared by many non-Catholic scholars scholars who, while they would doubtless argue to varying degrees against Peter’s role continuining in the governance of the Church through those who occupied his chair, do recognize his role as rock:
catholicity.elcore.net/SimonIsTheRock.html
See also the Early Church Fathers regarding the same subject:
catholic.com/library/Peter_Primacy.asp
catholic.com/library/Origins_of_Peter_as_Pope.asp
No.
God can speak to us personally through His Word, and reading, studying and praying with Scripture should be a regular part of one’s life. The only problem with approaching Scripture as a “Lone Ranger’”, though, is when it gives rise to the presumption that makes one’s personal discernment of Scripture the final authority - one becomes one’s own pope - as Luther came to recognize. This is denied by Scripture itself: 2 Peter 1:20 and 3:15-16. It is also denied by the very forming of the canon of Scipture.The final authority is the formal and Traditional understanding of the Church. If one remains faithful to this, then one is free to discern Scripture as a private individual without going astray. Our Faith reveals to us the Spirit-guided Church’s authority; it does not reveal our personal discernment as sufficient. Christ formed us into a Church (a collective Body) for that reason. We are to hold to the same, consistent Faith: 1 Cor. 1:10. This is essential.
Perhaps the articles below will help clarify for you the Church’s teaching - a teaching, btw, shared by all true Apostolic Churches, although their terminologies will be different than the Latin-rite “transubstantiation”.
First, this, from an earlier post of mine in another thread:
Jesus’ real Presence in the Eucharist is metaphysical, not physical. The physical elements of the Eucharist are bread and wine. We perceive them as bread and wine, since that’s all our senses are able to see and perceive. We do not have to “pretend” that they are Jesus in a physical sense; since, in a physical sense, they are bread and wine. But, we know by faith that their metaphysical nature has changed and that this nature is the Real and Personal Presence of the risen Jesus Christ - Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.
forums.catholic-questions.org/showthread.php?p=2772158#post2772158
Our Lord has given us His Body and His Blood so that we may truly become what we eat. Through consuming Him we become one with Him and with each other. This Food is also strength for our pilgrimage to Him as we are formed to more and more closely resemble the One Whom we love.
Some other articles that you may find helpful in better understanding the Church’s teaching regarding the above subjects:
bringyou.to/apologetics/a87.htm
bringyou.to/apologetics/PeterRockKeysPrimacyRome.htm
bringyou.to/apologetics/a57.htm
bringyou.to/apologetics/a18.htm
bringyou.to/apologetics/num8.htm
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