Thorgs Posted August 2, 2010 Share Posted August 2, 2010 I was raised a Mormon. I went on a mission for my church, but came back early due to depression. After all, I served in Washington state and walking in the rain every day from sun up to sun down really takes a toll on you. Anyways, I stopped going to church around the age of 23 because members of my church were giving me bad looks and talking behind my back. It hurt me deeply and since then my world has been falling apart at the seams. I lost faith in God and stopped praying or going to church all together. I'm 28 now and would like to get God back into my life. I recently went to a Catholic church. It is completely different than being a Mormon. Although I'm not used to this religion, I'd like to go without feeling awkward. Any tips or advice on switching religions and getting God back into your life? Thank you very much in advance. Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 2, 2010 Share Posted August 2, 2010 hugs to you for attempting to decipher the mystery of the Mother Church – I'm a cradle Catholic and am amazed at what I'm *still* learning!!! but back to your original question, how to get God back into your life. It's quite simple, though maybe hard to do at first: Just begin praying. If it's in the form of a petition ("Lord help me not go crazy," "Take away my pain") or even just a simple thanks ("You gave me the most beautiful sunset today," etc), it's striking up a dialogue with someone incredibly patient who is always willing to listen. And remember, he loves you like no other has ever loved you in your life ... if you're uncomfortable doing that, try music. Whatever floats your boat, but helps you be aware of him. My favorites are a couple of Los Lonely Boy tunes (Heaven and Forgiven) and something by Jon Anderson (the guy from the 70s group Yes), called "Ave Verum" – you can find them on YouTube, and they're wonderful for helping me get centered in that dialogue with the Big Guy ... most of all, don't give up. If you find Church A isn't something you can relate to, there are others you can try on for size, and remember, the best one for you is the one that helps you connect with God. All that other stuff – the gossip, the funny looks, the judging – is just bullshxt you don't need to deal with. you'll be in my prayers, kiddo Link to post Share on other sites
Author Thorgs Posted August 2, 2010 Author Share Posted August 2, 2010 hugs to you for attempting to decipher the mystery of the Mother Church – I'm a cradle Catholic and am amazed at what I'm *still* learning!!! but back to your original question, how to get God back into your life. It's quite simple, though maybe hard to do at first: Just begin praying. If it's in the form of a petition ("Lord help me not go crazy," "Take away my pain") or even just a simple thanks ("You gave me the most beautiful sunset today," etc), it's striking up a dialogue with someone incredibly patient who is always willing to listen. And remember, he loves you like no other has ever loved you in your life ... if you're uncomfortable doing that, try music. Whatever floats your boat, but helps you be aware of him. My favorites are a couple of Los Lonely Boy tunes (Heaven and Forgiven) and something by Jon Anderson (the guy from the 70s group Yes), called "Ave Verum" – you can find them on YouTube, and they're wonderful for helping me get centered in that dialogue with the Big Guy ... most of all, don't give up. If you find Church A isn't something you can relate to, there are others you can try on for size, and remember, the best one for you is the one that helps you connect with God. All that other stuff – the gossip, the funny looks, the judging – is just bullshxt you don't need to deal with. you'll be in my prayers, kiddo Thanks Anne. I'm sure it will be awkward at first going to a Catholic church, but I'll get used to it (I'll be going alone just like everything else I do in my life). I just emailed the Father (I think that's what he is) at a local Perish and waiting to hear back from him. Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 2, 2010 Share Posted August 2, 2010 yes, Father is the proper title, and he's the guy in charge of the parish. The parish might also have deacons, who are married but who also do the "men in black, with collar" thing. Sometimes it can be easier to relate to the deacon because he's got a wife and family, and possibly kids, all just depends on what your particular needs are. don't know why I didn't think to tell you this the first go-round, but call the church office to see if they have RCIA classes, which are basically Catholic 101 sessions for those interested in Catholicism. Many of the people taking the classes are actually looking to become Catholic, but that's not a requirement. Mostly, it's to help you discern whether this is the right church home for YOU. you might also check with the priest to see if there are any prayer groups you can hook up with – there are the folks who pray the rosary, the folks who are on the sick call list and offer up prayers for people who need them, etc. I'm sure if you're in a bigger city, there will be interdenominational Bible study classes, which always include prayer ... Link to post Share on other sites
Author Thorgs Posted August 2, 2010 Author Share Posted August 2, 2010 yes, Father is the proper title, and he's the guy in charge of the parish. The parish might also have deacons, who are married but who also do the "men in black, with collar" thing. Sometimes it can be easier to relate to the deacon because he's got a wife and family, and possibly kids, all just depends on what your particular needs are. don't know why I didn't think to tell you this the first go-round, but call the church office to see if they have RCIA classes, which are basically Catholic 101 sessions for those interested in Catholicism. Many of the people taking the classes are actually looking to become Catholic, but that's not a requirement. Mostly, it's to help you discern whether this is the right church home for YOU. you might also check with the priest to see if there are any prayer groups you can hook up with – there are the folks who pray the rosary, the folks who are on the sick call list and offer up prayers for people who need them, etc. I'm sure if you're in a bigger city, there will be interdenominational Bible study classes, which always include prayer ... Thanks Anne, you have been very helpful. I went to one perish about a month ago and enjoyed it. It was with my ex, but I'd go on a different day that she does so I don't see her and open up healing wounds. I've just notice that ever since things started going bad in my life is about the time I lost faith. So it's been going on for about 5 years now. On top of it I have a dead end job, no college, and no friends or family around...so life is very tough for me right now. Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 2, 2010 Share Posted August 2, 2010 sometimes it seems that when it rains, it pours, and nothing but nothing will make it better. But I'm really proud of you for reaching back behind the closed door and considering this as a solution. Because no matter how much people disagree on whether there's a God or not, or if prayer has any real value, if it means something to *you* it's going to be the thing that turns the situation around. keep the faith, kiddo ... you'll see it pay off handsomely Link to post Share on other sites
Author Thorgs Posted August 2, 2010 Author Share Posted August 2, 2010 sometimes it seems that when it rains, it pours, and nothing but nothing will make it better. But I'm really proud of you for reaching back behind the closed door and considering this as a solution. Because no matter how much people disagree on whether there's a God or not, or if prayer has any real value, if it means something to *you* it's going to be the thing that turns the situation around. keep the faith, kiddo ... you'll see it pay off handsomely Thank you Anne, I truly appreciate your help and kind words. Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 2, 2010 Share Posted August 2, 2010 I'm just a PM away if you ever need to chat or anything like that ... Link to post Share on other sites
skydiveaddict Posted August 2, 2010 Share Posted August 2, 2010 I'm a cradle catholic too, but haven't been to mass since I got home from the war. I seem to have lost my way. Any suggestions? Link to post Share on other sites
Author Thorgs Posted August 2, 2010 Author Share Posted August 2, 2010 I'm just a PM away if you ever need to chat or anything like that ... Thanks, much appreciated!! Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 sky, do you know any priests or deacons from your parish (or really, from any church you've attended) that you can touch base with? Or even the base chaplain? If you can find such a guy, just go talk with him about what you're feeling inside. You don't have to reveal anything you're not comfortable with, but definitely give them an idea that you were on assignment/where so that they can help you better. and don't be afraid to ask for their prayers as you find your way back. I don't know exactly what you're going through, but as the aunt of a nephew who is about to head off on his second tour of The Sandbox ... and the daughter of a Vietnam vet ... I can only imagine you experienced some stuff that still haunts you, and just the knowledge that someone is praying for you can help you reconnect with your spiritual side. also, as I've suggested to Thorgs, start out with simple prayer. Use music or literature or art or even just God's gorgeous creation for inspiration ... once you place the focus outside yourself and whatever might be hurting/haunting you, you'll find your way to Him. big hugs to you, buddy. You're also in my prayers ... Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 not sure if this would be of interest to you, but this is a great bunch of gals: Lufkin nuns as members of a cloistered order, these Dominican nuns' primary charism is to pray for others as they live a contemplative lifestyle. You can contact them with prayer requests – nothing is too simple or out of the question – or you can schedule a spiritual retreat on their grounds. I met them through my job 15 years ago, pretty much they were my first serious "encounter" with religious women, and they blew every preconceived image out of the water when I did that first interview with them. They're full of joy and life and spirit ... and fantastic prayer warriors ... Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 just know God is there for you, all you have to do is ask. beautifully said, BNB Link to post Share on other sites
skydiveaddict Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 Thank you Quankanne. You give me hope Link to post Share on other sites
Author Thorgs Posted August 3, 2010 Author Share Posted August 3, 2010 Hopefully God can give me hope soon, I had an absolutely horrible day Link to post Share on other sites
txsilkysmoothe Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 Such an uplifting thread! I, too, have shut God out to varying degrees and at different times in my life. The thing I'm certain of is that he always welcomes us back. I firmly believe God is all one needs to make it through life. Thorgs, Unfortunately, you will encounter some church members who just don't get it. They think they have earned a special place with God and can judge others. They are very wrong. Please don't allow them to prevent you from finding the peace you seek. Link to post Share on other sites
pureinheart Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 hugs to you for attempting to decipher the mystery of the Mother Church – I'm a cradle Catholic and am amazed at what I'm *still* learning!!! but back to your original question, how to get God back into your life. It's quite simple, though maybe hard to do at first: Just begin praying. If it's in the form of a petition ("Lord help me not go crazy," "Take away my pain") or even just a simple thanks ("You gave me the most beautiful sunset today," etc), it's striking up a dialogue with someone incredibly patient who is always willing to listen. And remember, he loves you like no other has ever loved you in your life ... if you're uncomfortable doing that, try music. Whatever floats your boat, but helps you be aware of him. My favorites are a couple of Los Lonely Boy tunes (Heaven and Forgiven) and something by Jon Anderson (the guy from the 70s group Yes), called "Ave Verum" – you can find them on YouTube, and they're wonderful for helping me get centered in that dialogue with the Big Guy ... most of all, don't give up. If you find Church A isn't something you can relate to, there are others you can try on for size, and remember, the best one for you is the one that helps you connect with God. All that other stuff – the gossip, the funny looks, the judging – is just bullshxt you don't need to deal with. you'll be in my prayers, kiddo This reply is really cool...and encouraging:)...if I might add, ask God to reveal Himself to you...He loves to do that because He loves us little humans that much...you got my prayers. Link to post Share on other sites
pureinheart Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 Hopefully God can give me hope soon, I had an absolutely horrible day (((((((((((((hugs))))))))))))!!!!!!!!! and lots of love to you. I understand how you feel, there are things that have just not moved, long-term issues that have been taxing on me.... If God be for us, who can be against us...for God did not give a spirit of fear, but power, love and a sound mind...faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen...GBU T Link to post Share on other sites
pureinheart Posted August 3, 2010 Share Posted August 3, 2010 I'm a cradle catholic too, but haven't been to mass since I got home from the war. I seem to have lost my way. Any suggestions? Wow SDA...you've been through a lot...cradle Catholic here too. Well we are the church...we are having church right this minute, not forsaking the fellowship is not just going to a building, it's communication with other believers. You know SDA, I have a special place in my heart for the Catholic church...I used to go to church everyday, sometimes 3 and 4 times a day...went to a Catholic school, which I might add gave a wonderful foundation concerning education. You are like way cool SDA, will be lifting you up....((((((((SDA))))))) Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 4, 2010 Share Posted August 4, 2010 and it helps to remember that God doesn't present you with any "opportunities" (positive or negative) that he also doesn't provide the necessary graces to deal with them ... I hope your day goes better tomorrow Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 5, 2010 Share Posted August 5, 2010 jeremiah 29:13-14 Link to post Share on other sites
Author Thorgs Posted August 6, 2010 Author Share Posted August 6, 2010 Still have not heard back from the perish I emailed. I'm too shy to just show up or call :/ Link to post Share on other sites
taiko Posted August 6, 2010 Share Posted August 6, 2010 Still have not heard back from the perish I emailed. I'm too shy to just show up or call :/ I'm curious, what kind of responce are you expecting from an email. While some have active ministries and volunteers to reply Churches, as a whole, predate such technology and they are geared up to accept folk who just walk in. At some point you either will or will not take a step forward (some may say backward) Link to post Share on other sites
quankanne Posted August 6, 2010 Share Posted August 6, 2010 calling the church office is prolly your best bet, besides hanging out after the Mass and asking the priest or deacons what kind of programs they've got for folks interested in learning more about the faith/joining community. Or, better yet, look to see if the parish has a website – more often than not, they'll list the different ministries and the contact persons for it. Link to post Share on other sites
hopesndreams Posted September 5, 2010 Share Posted September 5, 2010 I was raised a Mormon. I went on a mission for my church, but came back early due to depression. After all, I served in Washington state and walking in the rain every day from sun up to sun down really takes a toll on you. Anyways, I stopped going to church around the age of 23 because members of my church were giving me bad looks and talking behind my back. It hurt me deeply and since then my world has been falling apart at the seams. I lost faith in God and stopped praying or going to church all together. I'm 28 now and would like to get God back into my life. I recently went to a Catholic church. It is completely different than being a Mormon. Although I'm not used to this religion, I'd like to go without feeling awkward. Any tips or advice on switching religions and getting God back into your life? Thank you very much in advance. It's like picking up the phone. "God? You there? It's me." Link to post Share on other sites
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