Were You a Cradle Catholic or a Convert?
I am a cradle Catholic.
How Old Were You When You Left the Catholic Church?
Mid-thirties
How Old Were You When You Returned to Catholicism?
Fifty-two
Why I Left the Catholic Church
Growing up we were always in church. We went to Catholic school. Every novena, funeral Masses for people we didn't know—anytime there was something going on in church, my family attended. When I hit my 30's and had my own family I became disillusioned with my faith. My dad, who went to Mass every day, was active in our church as a lector, etc. He had a heart attack, was on the mend, and then passed away. I could not understand how God could take away such a good man, and I left the Church. Although I did make sure all three of my children received their sacraments, none of them attend Mass due to my bad decision.
Why I Returned to Catholicism
My mom passed away four years ago, and I could find no comfort or solace except at Mass. I discovered a peace within me that I didn't have while I was away from the Church. I have been attending faithfully ever since.
Advice
- My only advice would be think long and hard as to why you have left the Church and what the ramifications might be. I have three children who do not attend Mass, and it is all because of my decision to leave the Church.
