Some help, please?

Question

I am a disenchanted Catholic looking to convert to another faith. My question has two parts:
1. Any suggestions on what faith to join?
2. Based on your suggestions, what are some resources that I could look into gain more knowledge on your group?

Thanks

Answer 1

I would suggest any faith that understands that salvation can not be bought or earned. It is a gift from GOD apart from our works and it is not assured by baptizing a baby.

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Answer 2

That depends. What are you looking for? If you are looking for a religion with the same general belief, specifically Jesus Christ is the Messiah, then any Christian sect could be a good fit. Ones that are very close to the Catholic tradition are Episcopalian or Lutheran. They use much of the same ceremony but are a bit more open. Something that is even more open and accepting would be the United Church of Christ. They are a much simpler church without much of the pomp and circumstance.

If you are looking for alternate religions, you have many to choose from. Muslims share much of the same tradition from the Old Testament, Buddhists are very peaceful and look inward. A final option that I will mention is one of the many varieties of Pagan traditions. You have the freedom to choose whether you will create your own beliefs from many different traditions or join a group and learn from them.

As to resources, you can look information on all of these up on the Internet to start. From there, I'd suggest visiting different churches until you find one that feels right. That is really the best way to do it.

Good luck!!

Answer 3

What exactly makes you disenchanted with the Catholic faith? The recent scandals? The popcorn theology present in most parishes? The fact that, in most Catholic parishes, it seems as if there is NOTHING SUBSTANTIAL to this religion? Most of the bad things that are happening within the Church right now are not actually in line with Catholic doctrine.

Well, there is very much that is substantial to the Catholic Faith. Go read St. Thomas Aquinas if you're looking for something enriching. There are also many good books out on real Catholic doctrine. Check out Ignatius Press for some more good books, and www.ewtn.com for some more information.

Keep praying, and good luck.

Answer 4

I am not going to suggest any particular group or faith to join. I believe that first you have to answer some questions for yourself. What do you believe in a spiritual manor? Within that belief, what do you recognize to be the authority of that belief? What is it you want out of your spiritual path?
These are very important things to ask yourself before making any kind of decision on what to convert to. Other beliefs are not necessarily like that of the Catholics where you must be a member to enjoy the fruits of it's practices so therefore if you are incline, you may be able to observe and personally ask questions of the religious organization that you are interested in.
It is your decision and no one should be advising you to go one way or another. Faith is a personal commitment that you make and many others can become harassing about their own beliefs. Start with your own convictions and research from there.
Blessed Be on your spiritual path. May you always find your way.

Answer 5

Roy M,
"1. Any suggestions on what faith to join?"
No. You have the answer. Where is your heart leading you. Did you disaffect from the RCC, or did you disaffect from God? If you still want to come to God, then He is leading you to Him.

"2. Based on your suggestions, what are some resources that I could look into gain more knowledge on your group?"
I'm a Protestant. I would recommend listening to drgenescott.com. But you make your own decisions.

Answer 6

Hi Roy,

I'd love to help you out on in a more personal way. But you need to be a little bit more specific. Lutherans are almost Catholic. Anglicans are almost Catholic. There are 21 different branches of Catholicism. The Byzantine Divine Liturgy is one of the most beautiful services I've ever attended.

When I left the church I tried Buddhism for a time. They taught me to pray then sent me back to my church. Now I'm back with a FIRE under me!

There are as many different kinds of Buddhism as there are kinds of Catholics. I read a lot of books by Thich Nhat Hahn. He was a very close friends of Thomas Merton's. Probably how I ended up coming back to the church.

Answer 7

That depends on *why* you are disenchanted with Catholicism. Have you talked to your priest? Perhaps you might be able to resolve your difficulties and stay in the church. If that is not possible, I know former Catholic people who were very happy with the Episcopal Church. You really need to research it and attend services in area churches, and speak with their religious leaders. It will probably be a long process and I hope you find your peace and happiness.

Answer 8

I would try to find the most unbiased source that you can, in your search. A reference I like is: www.religioustolerance.org They spell out the differences in faiths in a very approachable way.

As far as which faith to join, right now you know what you're *not* (a catholic). Find out what it is that you ARE. Once you know what you believe in, you can start looking for one that mirrors your own values. Even if you value "questioning your faith" - there are belief systems that honor this.

Good luck in your search.

Answer 9

You need to be in a church that you like, if you're saved that is the most important part as you well know. Find a church where you can listen to the preacher on Sunday morning and just can't wait to get back Sunday night. If you find a church like that your faith will grow stronger everyday!

Answer 10

Your faith ought not be in any religion, but in Jesus Christ. And so your only real search I believe should be for a good Bible-believing Church that does not stifle the word of God or the Holy Spirit, and where you can have genuine fellowship with other Christians!