Were You a Cradle Catholic or a Convert?
I was a cradle Catholic who attended Catholic grammar and high school.
How Old Were You When You Left the Catholic Church?
I was about 21 when I left the Church after college.
How Old Were You When You Returned to Catholicism?
I was about 47 when I returned to the Church—a 25-year absence!
Why I Left the Catholic Church
After college, I realized I could no longer participate in both the college Catholic and evangelical ministries. I was already attending a Southern Baptist church, so I continued to go there. For some reason I never considered joining a Catholic Church in town!
Why I Returned to Catholicism
After attending a Southern Baptist seminary, I eventually moved back home to New York. I went to a Baptist church for a while, but I never felt like I belonged, so I stopped going to church for a while. My mom, who I later realized had been praying for me all this time, asked if I would consider returning to the Catholic Church. At first I resisted, but eventually the Holy Spirit opened my ears and heart to what He was saying. Through reading, watching EWTN, and searching the internet, I came to see that my objections to the Catholic Church were unfounded. After going to Mass for the first time in about 25 years, I spoke to a parish priest. We met weekly, and by that Advent, I realized I was ready to return to the Faith.
Advice
- Never underestimate the power of a mother's prayers!
- Even if you're not sure it's true, pray before the Blessed Sacrament.
- It's good to read and watch Catholic media, but don't forget to talk to someone who can help you understand what you're learning.
- Be not afraid!
- Don't expect perfection, either from yourself or other Catholics.
- Seek Christ at all times; do not seek yourself or others.
- Expect and embrace the Cross. Difficulties will come. Christ is giving you an opportunity to join in His sufferings for the Church.
- When the Church disappoints you, remember how much She loves you. We are all sinners!
