https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:10:12 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-563410 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 10:53:30 +0000 honeybear 563410@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Chillybear: Congratulations! That's really fantastic. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-553537 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 10:09:24 +0000 jedeve 553537@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Congrats to your family! Have a blessed lent. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-553384 Thu, 07 Feb 2013 08:50:10 +0000 Chillybear 553384@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I just wanted to update this thread as my husband has decided to go through with the RCIA program. He started meeting with the deacon every Wednesday since the end of December and they are hoping to confirm him the week after Easter. I go to the meetings with him when i can but i tend to work until 8 on Wednesdays. Since he has a very strong knowledge of the Lutheran faith they're really just focusing on the differences and the Deacon feels very confident that he will be ready by april. I'm happy that he decided to go through with it (i'd be fine if he didnt, too) but it will be nice to be go to church and celebrate as a family. I really like our new parish as well. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-449795 Sat, 15 Dec 2012 09:44:49 +0000 Sugar.Biscuit 449795@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Our situations were similar to yours. I was the Lutheran &amp; he was the Catholic. We married in the Catholic Church w/o a mass ceremony. Before we married I attended mass pretty much every Sunday w/ DH. Our goal was every week, we enjoy going to mass. DH is very admit about raising our children catholic &amp; in the catholic schools. So a year after we married I surprised him by registering for RCIA (in October?) &amp; my MIL was my sponsor.<br /> The classes were once a week for 1-2 hours &amp; they continued to Easter. There are certain requirements like having to attend certain masses because you are a part of the mass. They let us know on our first day what the requirements were. I was slightly intimidated &amp; over whelmed but that soon changed. I enjoyed the process so much that next year I plan on sponsoring. </p> <p>DH &amp; I were never overly religious but the process of converting defiantly brought us closer to eachother &amp; our faith. DH even attended some of the classes. Had his work schedule been better he would have gone to all of them w/ me. I would recommend you take the class w/ your DH. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-449371 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:58:48 +0000 honeybear 449371@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Yes. RCIA is usually weekly and the classes run from the fall until the Easter Vigil, when the class is baptized and/or confirmed. Also, you can definitely go along to classes! (Plus, you may want to--ours were on a weeknight, so we all ordered dinner/rotated bringing food.) He'll need a sponsor, and sponsors are encouraged to attend. </p> <p>Here is a good overview: <a href="http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/who-we-teach/rite-of-christian-initiation-of-adults/index.cfm" rel="nofollow">http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/who-we-teach/rite-of-christian-initiation-of-adults/index.cfm</a></p> <p>I had a fantastic experience in RCIA, so I'm biased of course, but I count it as one of the best things I've done in my life. That said, it is also one of the hardest things I've ever done, spiritually and intellectually. </p> <p>Can I make two reading suggestions (because you'll probably be reading the Catechism for class, which is well-written, but not exactly a page-turner...)? C.S. Lewis' "Mere Christianity" and Thomas Merton's "The Seven Storey Mountain." The latter is an excellent conversion story, and a fast read. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-449331 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:49:28 +0000 Mrs. J 449331@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My dad converted from Lutheranism to Catholicism, and our former pastor (who married me), said my dad didn't have to do RCIA, he just had to make a profession of faith. However, he had been coming to Mass with us for many years by the time he converted. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-449323 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:43:45 +0000 DigAPony 449323@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I converted when I was a kid, so I did CIC, the kids' version of RCIA. Once a week classes starting in the fall and going through til a little after Easter. Your husband would have to wait until next year to start, but you could totally go to the classes with him. You might even be able to be his sponsor; I can't remember if spouses can do that. No way to "test out," I'm afraid! :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-449294 Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:14:13 +0000 jedeve 449294@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm sure they'd let you go with him. My dad was my mom's sponsor when she converted. Good luck to you! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-435278 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:50:28 +0000 singingbee 435278@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Chillybear: they are weekly at my church. They cover EVERYTHING about the catholic faith that you would Ned to know before coverting. At our church there is a time you can o at the beginning to see if it is something you want to continue with then after a certain time in the year, only those who will covert continue in the classes. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-434789 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 14:04:53 +0000 DpeachLu 434789@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Yep although I was raised Catholic (I still am) DH wasnt and I sat through all of the RCIA classes with him before we got married. We would go to class once a week for two hours. Basically they teach you about the faith, the mass, the sacraments, and everything else the religion entails. We enjoyed the classes and learned a lot of what we didnt know. Also, any doubts or questions that came up were answered.<br /> Basically its just a class to teach you about the religion :-). </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-434786 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 14:03:07 +0000 Chillybear 434786@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I told hubs that if they let me, I'd go to the classes with him. Are they weekly? and it takes a whole year?</p> <p>What do the classes cover? He wanted to know if he could "test out" of the classes since the religions are so similar. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-434780 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 13:59:13 +0000 singingbee 434780@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I went through rcia!!!! Usually u sign up and then u attend classes throughout the year. U join on Easter vigil night. Call because it may b too late to join for this yr but u could b ready for next yr. </p> <p>I went thru it and am still involved with it so if u have any questions ask away! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/rica-converting-to-catholicism#post-434775 Thu, 06 Dec 2012 13:56:48 +0000 Chillybear 434775@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm Catholic and my husband was raised Lutheran, but has attended many different churches (baptist, presbyterian, episcopalian, etc) We were married in a catholic church and when we attend mass its at a catholic church. While neither us is super strong in our faith and going to mass is not usually a priority we plan to raise our children catholic (in the sense that thats where they will recieve sacraments). Maybe by the time we have kids it will be more of a priority.... </p> <p>Anyway, we had talked about me registering at the parish by our home (instead of my parents parish) and hubs shocked me by saying he was thinking of converting. He says it would make things easier when we have kids, he doesnt have any strong ties to being Lutheran and from what he can tell they are very similar. He doesnt think his parents will feel one way or another either. </p> <p>I started doing some research and found out that the parish we'd be joining has a RICA program but I dont really know what that entails. Has anyone done the program that could tell me what to expect? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-381836 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 14:52:25 +0000 ladyfingers 381836@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I just want to say I have a friend who is extremely liberal, both socially and politically, and she is a practicing Catholic. That's just to say that she doesn't agree with all the teachings anyway, but she has found a church and a priest that is aligned with her personal beliefs, and managed to stay in the Catholic religion (which is what she grew up with and where she's more comfortable). It can be done! She finds great comfort in her faith. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-381782 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 14:40:12 +0000 mediagirl 381782@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My husband and I grew up Catholic and definitely don't believe in some of the things the Catholic church believes in. We considered staying members of the Catholic church but ended up joining an Episcopal church because of their welcoming attitude, rather than feeling shunned, like we did from the Catholic church. We got married outside of the Catholic church, so we are no longer allowed to participate in Catholic communion. To me, that was the final straw that sent me looking elsewhere. </p> <p>We actually went to 4 different Catholic churches in our area before we decided to start looking at other religions. We found the Episcopal religion very familiar, yet without restriction.</p> <p>I think it's all about finding a church that makes you happy and that you feel comfortable in. Definitely "try out" various Catholic churches in your area and then start to talk to the Priests about what it would take to "become" Catholic again.</p> <p>Haha...I just realized I posted on this 11 months ago. Too funny. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-381702 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 14:15:12 +0000 Honeybee 381702@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I didn't see this thread originally, but I'm a (very) liberal Catholic' I converted as an adult, in my senior year at college. My husband was raised in the religion, we were married in the Church, and our kids are baptized (and will be raised) in the Church, as well. </p> <p>Spiritually, I actually leave more towards agnosticism; politically, I'm a socialist, and very liberal in my beliefs/views. Although my beliefs do not always match the Church's theology, I believe with the broader messages of the role of the community in salvation, worship, our connection to God, and our responisbilities as human beings. I've always attended liberal parishes where the priests have openly disagreed with some of the Chruch's teachings, so I guess I've only seen models of Catholic communities that encourage members to question and discuss the theology of the Church while still identifying as a Catholic. I know that we will soon be attending a more conservative Catholic parish, but I hope they still have the openness I've become accustomed to in my previous experiences.</p> <p>All this is to say that are a lot of Catholics who don't agree with all of the Church's teachings but identify with the basic tenants of the faith. Hopefully, if you return to the church, you'll find a parish that respects your choice to disagree, even if they don't support your objections. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-381644 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 13:58:50 +0000 meredithNYC 381644@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Another Catholic here - and a pretty liberal one, at that. Like many have said, the feel of the church really varies from parish to parish. I am lucky to be in a major city and have a lot of options, which I understand isn't the case for everyone. For me, joining another denomination is not something I would ever consider, as I feel at home in Catholic church - despite some of its flaws. But good luck, no matter what you decide! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-381607 Tue, 06 Nov 2012 13:40:48 +0000 honeybear 381607@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@sorrycharlie: Apologies for resurrecting an old thread, but I need a break from politics today. So let's talk about religion! ;) </p> <p>If you're still deciding whether to pursue this, one thing you might look into is RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) classes in your area. The aim of these classes is to move people towards the sacraments of baptism (if they aren't already baptized--baptism in most Christian denominations is respected by the Catholic Church) and confirmation at the following Easter Vigil. </p> <p>In any event, you don't have to agree that you will eventually be baptized/confirmed to go to the classes. They should be free, too. Good RCIA classes will be like a fantastic college seminar, participatory and thought-provoking. Also, they generally aren't led by priests and I've never seen any "hard sell" tactics. (So don't be scared!) If you've already been confirmed, but just want to "audit" a class to see if Catholicism is really right for you, I'm sure the RCIA leader would be happy to have you. ;) </p> <p>Best wishes! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/godparent-gifts#post-232061 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 10:09:04 +0000 LivsMama 232061@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Foodnerd81: awesoem thanks. I think I will go the photo frame route. Godparent gifts are big around here. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/godparent-gifts#post-232019 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 09:38:25 +0000 Foodnerd81 232019@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I don't think I got a gift for being a god mother, and I know I didn't expect one! I think anything, even something small, would be appreciated. I might be cheesey, but I would love a small framed photo of my godson. I don't get to see him often enough and I'm always pulling up his photos on my phone. Really, I was so honored to be his godmother than I really never thought about a present.<br /> However, I would love to get a godmother card from him on mother's day :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/godparent-gifts#post-232001 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 09:28:21 +0000 LivsMama 232001@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Does anyone have any creative ideas for gifts we can give Liv's Godparents? (Side note-I TOTALLY fogot to order gifts and her christening was almost 2 months ago...oops. Luckily they are siblings and understand lol) So anyways, I dont know that I want to go the traditional photo frame route, and definitely no jewelery. Any other ideas? I got a travel coffee mug once that had a nie silver plaque on it, but I dont know about that for them... </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-36012 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 19:42:22 +0000 Mrs. D 36012@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>like @MamaMoose:, I'm Presbyterian, and I love my congregation. My DH grew up Catholic and had many issues with the priests at the church he attended growing up, so he left, but found when we got together that he loved my church, and has since converted. Good luck searching out a good fit for you, regardless of denomination. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-35718 Sat, 17 Dec 2011 03:05:18 +0000 DigAPony 35718@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I am a former Catholic, and I also recommend just trying out different churches, both Catholic and Episcopalian. (From my understanding, the main differences are that Episcopalians do not follow the Pope as head of the church, and they do not believe in transubstantiation in the same way.)</p> <p>You're right, this is not an easy thing to figure out, but if you feel the need to join a church community of some kind, don't hesitate to try different churches! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-35242 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:04:09 +0000 hopeful 35242@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I was raised Catholic and still am practicing. My husband was raised Catholic and got disillusioned after he was thrown out of CCD class at age 14 for trying to talk about evolution ~ a fact that astounds and saddens me since the Catholic church officially is very pro-science (a Catholic monk came up with the big bang theory!), so that teacher was in pretty poor form. Anyway he doesn't practice any more though he did go along with me through the process to get married in the church. And I consider myself to be a pretty liberal Catholic. </p> <p>Since I was in school forever (PhD), I spent a decent amount of time at university-based churches, which are definitely more on the liberal side of the spectrum. Even now, 3 years after graduating, I live in a college town and the university's Catholic church is the one I attend - it's quite large, offering something like 6 masses at different times every weekend, with lots of non-students in attendance. So if you have a university in your area you might want to check them out to see if they have masses for non-students. </p> <p>In grad school my roommate was a non-denominational Christian and I went to several faith groups with her, which was really interesting. They were a great group of people and I enjoyed our discussions, even if I was a bit of an outsider as a Catholic ~ in the end it is all Christianity, so.... what can I say, I'm pretty open minded about this! I do love the rituals of the Catholic church so can't see myself ever leaving, though. </p> <p>As for it being hard to figure out~ working out one's beliefs is not an easy thing to do. But, as trite as it might sound, I'd suggest praying about it! God will help you end up where you are supposed to be :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-34688 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:18:36 +0000 mrs. wagon 34688@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I agree with most of the posters above-- every church is different, Catholics and Protestants have different beliefs (but a lot in common)... I would suggest researching churches in your area (and asking friends/family for suggestions), going to their websites and reading about their beliefs. Once you find one or two that resonate with you, visit them on a Sunday and see how you like the service. There are so many churches out there and you will hopefully be warmly welcomed and not seriously pressured to join... I too think it's wonderful that you are seeking and you are so openminded! I'm a Christian and attend a protestant church. Oh and I agree that the Pastor or Priest has a lot to do with the church! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-34640 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 11:34:01 +0000 heartonastring 34640@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Both DH and I were raised Catholic, but have strayed from the Church and its doctrine. As a result, I really didn't feel comfortable getting married in the Church, as I thought it would be disingenuous, and I really didn't want to be married by an institution with whom I disagreed so vehemently on certain issues. </p> <p>Anyhow, I ended up finding a Protestant Church that very much fits my beliefs (is Liberal in certain ways, i.e. they conduct gay marriages), but also traditional enough that it still feel comfortable for me coming from the Catholic Church. My DH doesn't come either :)</p> <p>All that to say, it might be worthwhile to check out some other churches, Episcopalian (for me, this was still too close to Catholicism, but maybe it will work for you) and other Protestant denominations. Spend a few Sundays trying out different churches and see which you like the best. I also think so much of it comes down to your personal connection with the Pastor. Good luck! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-34447 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:15:09 +0000 MamaMoose 34447@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@sorrycharlie: Definitely look into Episcopalianism. I have a lot of friends who converted after growing up Catholic. We are actually Presbyterian so I don't have first hand experience but I know a lot of people who are really happy in their Episcopal churches. It's almost like Catholic light. Or as my friend (who is a protestant who married a catholic) calls it "The Church of the Holy Compromise". With the Catholic church it really doesn't matter how open minded the priest is. The Vatican decides how Catholics should view social issues so there's really not a lot of flexibility on the teachings as far as homosexuality, birth control, etc. So if you don't agree with the Vatican's view I imagine it would be very difficult to be a parishoner in the church. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-34410 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:37:41 +0000 sorrycharlie 34410@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Hmm you guys are giving me a lot to think about! I'm gonna really have to start doing my research...I didn't realize it'd be so hard! :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-34406 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:34:27 +0000 venice4504 34406@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I grew up Catholic, went to a Catholic k-8 and a Jesuit high school. That being said I don't attend church now because I haven't/really didn't look found one that is a little more liberal. If you were to find a church that maybe didn't agree with everything but didn't make everyone tow the line I think I would be more inclined to go back to Mass.</p> <p>We are looking at sending our kiddo to a Catholic school though. I had fantastic schooling. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/question-about-catholicism#post-33693 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:20:20 +0000 MrsBrewer 33693@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I grew up Catholic, went to private school and everything. But now I no longer am a practicing Catholic, I consider myself a Christian though, and I go to a Christian church, I also don't agree with a lot of the Catholic teachings, but I do follow the teachings of Christianity. </p>