The Church leader I contacted about converting to Catholocism seems like he's not real interested in talking with me about what I need to do. Several weeks ago he did give me a couple of books to read and said to call him anytime to talk about questions I might have. I have called him twice, last week was understandable with it being Holy Week. When I called him today, he sounded as if I was bothering him when I asked when we could get together to discuss any questions I might have. Are all Catholic priests and deacons this unfriendly? I have made the choice to convert, but I would like to feel as if I were welcome in the church and not a bother. That is one thing I have to give many protestant leaders credit for, they will almost bend over backwards to gain a new member.

-- Jeff (celticfirestorm@hotmail.com), April 14, 2004

Answers

Perhaps give your priest another chance - Easter is a busy time and maybe he is stressed. Or try contacting another priest in your area. I have had a good experience with people willing to help in my journey to enter the Catholic Church.

Also, check out the Coming Home Network for Protestants who wish to become Catholic. Their site should be able to help answer some of your questions, and they can pair you up with another person who is journeying toward the Church.

Don't give up on Christ's one true Church. The sins of her members should be no hindrance to you from the Truth. Don't let yourself fall into the trap that many non-believers assume - that there are too many hypocrites or sinners in the Church. In reality, we are all sinners in need of God's grace.

-- Emily (jesusfollower7@yahoo.com), April 14, 2004.

Hang in there. Take Emily's advice. Your decision is a good one, but not an easy one. Pray for him and all Church leaders.

-- Mark Advent (adventm5477@earthlink.net), April 14, 2004.

+JMJ

hey Jeff,

here is an excerpt from the Rule of St. Benedict. Although you are not entering into monastic life it's worthwhile to read for spiritual direction.

"Do not grant newcomers to the monastic life an easy entry, but, as the Apostle says, Test the spirits to see if they are from God. Therefore, if someone comes and keeps knocking at the door, and if at the end of four or five days he has shown himself patient in bearing his harsh treatment and difficulty of entry, and has persisted in his request, then he should be allowed to enter and stay in the guest quarter for a few days. After that, he should live in the novitiate, where the novices study, eat and sleep."

Peace

-- Blaine (blainewilliams@comacst.net), April 15, 2004.