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Sara
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Hello,
My name is Sara. I am 23 years old and married with no children. I was raised in the Church of Christ (Non-Denominational Christian) but since I moved away from home at 17, have fallen away.
I have always struggled with my faith, but the main issue that bothered me was that my religion seems to hold the belief that only baptized Church of Christ members will be admitted into Heaven. I do agree with the Baptism part but to me anyone from any religion or denomination that does good and gives glory to God should have the same chance at a Heaven-bound eternity.
I have always found the rituals of Catholicism very interesting and the few Catholics I have known seem to be very vocal about their beliefs and their love of The Lord. I guess my question would be:
- Would it be acceptable for me to attend Mass even though I have never been to a Catholic service before?
- Would it be possible to set up an appointment with a priest to discuss conversion?
I would love to be able to actually speak to someone with quite a bit of knowledge on the subject instead of just reading.
I'm grateful for any information that anyone may have for me.
Thanks and God bless.
Sara
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Would it be acceptable for me to attend a Catholic Mass even though I have never been to one? }
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Mike replied:
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Hi Sara,
Thanks for the very good question.
You said:
- Would it be acceptable for me to attend Mass even though I have never been to a Catholic service before?
Yes! We would welcome you (and any non-Catholic or non-Christian) even though you would not be able to receive Communion. This question and answer will address what you can do:
You said:
- Would it be possible to set up an appointment with a priest to discuss conversion?
I would love to be able to actually speak to someone with quite a bit of knowledge on the subject instead of just reading. I'm grateful for any information that anyone may have for me.
Sure! Just make an appointment at the rectory: the building where the secretary of the parish is located. They have a program called RCIA which has multiple benefits:
- you can learn, if it's a good one, what Catholics believe, then use our database and read the Catechism to fill in the blanks
- you can make new friends and work in different ministries
Though most priests are very knowledgeable, if you don't get one, you can usually find a faithful, knowledgeable priest at a religious house, like a monastery or convent.
I hope this helps,
Mike
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Bob replied:
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Sara,
Yes, you are most welcome to come to any Mass at a Catholic Church.
Secondly, you would be welcome to meet with the Catholic priest to talk about the beliefs and ways to enter the Church.
You are right that Christ set up Baptism as a prerequisite for the kingdom of Heaven, however, there are circumstances where people do not receive Baptism but are still saved. You have excellent instincts and I'm sure the Holy Spirit is working in you.
Keep on your journey! Best wishes and God bless you.
Peace,
Bob Kirby
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