Were You a Cradle Catholic or a Convert?
I was born and raised a Catholic and attended Catholic schools and church.
How Old Were You When You Left the Catholic Church?
In my 20's, I started to search and heard the Protestant doctrine.
How Old Were You When You Returned to Catholicism?
In my 50's, it was as though my spiritual eyes were opened.
Why I Left the Catholic Church
When I heard the Protestant doctrine, it made me doubtful of the Catholic Church. Consequently, I stopped my relationship with the saints, and I even started to think it was wrong to pray to the Virgin Mother. The doctrines I heard made me think that everything about the Catholic Church was wrong.
Why I Returned to Catholicism
As I mentioned it was as though my spiritual eyes were opened, and I started to understand apostolic succession. I started to read the writings of the early Church Fathers. And I realized, "Why would the Lord wait 1,500 years (till the Reformation) to start the true Church?" It didn't make sense. The writings of the early Church Fathers seem to confirm everything that occurs in the Mass to this day. The beauty of the Church is unparalleled, and what we see here on earth is just a glimpse: the beautiful art, the beautiful music, the magnificent writings and understandings. The mystical writings and unique prayers. They are not vain repetitions at all; they are beautiful inspirations that stir up the spirit.
There is so much information on the internet about Catholicism, it is fascinating. The lives of the saints: They are the true heroes. The rosary is a special time of prayer; it's as if I'm sitting with the Blessed Virgin, and she shares understanding with me about the events of the Holy Family. It is truly a community, the Communion of Saints. And why shouldn't it be? After all, God is the God of the Living.
I am very thankful to the Lord for calling me back. I am also thankful to my family for bringing me up in the Catholic Church.
Advice
- We live in a world full of information, but there is also lots of misinformation. Genuinely seek the truth. More than ever we understand why it is so essential to have the Magisterium of the Church. It is wise to look to the Church, to apostolic succession, for guidance. The Catholic Church is the oldest Church on earth, since the time of Christ. The fruits of the Church are undeniable. We are told that we will know a tree by the fruit it produces.
