What I Was Before I Became a Catholic
I was raised by a Catholic mother, my wife is Catholic, and my kids were going to Catholic school. I also went to the Catholic Church, but I was never baptized into it.
Why I Converted to Catholicism
It was my way of being more of a part of my family's life. I felt odd about being a non-Catholic. Even though my dad is non-Catholic, I could not relate to that well. My dad became a diabetic, and it resulted in a triple bypass and two surgeries to the neck for minor strokes. I made a promise to God that if He were to take care of my dad after all these surgeries, I would join the Church and continue to serve Him. He kept his part of the bargain, I joined 15 years ago, and my dad is still doing well, along with my mom.
How I Converted to Catholicism
Went through RCIA. I had the encouragement of Deacon Howard, who at that time was going through training to be a deacon. He offered support and good general direction. I also had Sister Mary Pierre, who was the director and a wonderful person who was gentle with us all, as well as encouraging.
Advice
- I thought of myself as a good person, but I could do better. When going through RCIA, I thought of myself as a sheep just outside the fenced pen. The Lord was my shepherd, urging me to come inside. I was looking for the gate, with the wolves just beyond the reach of the good shepherd, but there always, waiting. The Lord led me to the gate, and now I am safe within His fold, and the wolves have moved on to other potential lambs.
