I am thinking of converting...(read rest of question)?

Question

I have been a Fundamentalist all my life. I am thinking of converting to Catholicism because of some research I have done. Now's your chance to convince me otherwise or encourage me. I am hesitating because my family will probably not be happy.

Any advice or help welcome.

Answer 1

I'm in the same boat you are (did a lot of research which let to Catholicism). I am currently going through RCIA and finding out even more. Don't let anyone talk you out of it or try to talk you into it; even your family. It's your decision. If you want to talk send me an e-mail. =)

Answer 2

I am a conservative Christian (some might say Fundamentalist) and I too have considered becoming Roman Catholic. There are many things I like about the RC church, its history, art, sense of beauty and majesty. Yet I cannot fully accept some of their doctrines. I also feel unsatisfied with the homilies and interest in Scripture among priests. I've been fortunate enough to hear some gifted pastors and I also studied the Bible, theology and philosophy in college. I also think the Bible states quite clearly that we are saved by faith alone, not faith and works (despite a few passage in James).

Pray, examine your motives, and follow your conscience.

Answer 3

Please don't rely on your research. I was raised a Fundamentalist as well. Fundamentalism usually gives you a good grounding in scripture. Although raised Baptist, I knew there was more to a relationship with the Lord than re-committing my life to Christ over and over again. I started broadening my options.

My aunt and uncle gave my parents a book called "They Speak With Other Tongues" when I was about 10. As a child I was much more open to experiencing God in other ways than my parents. For over twenty years I was the only one in my family who had experienced the further walk with God experience called the "Baptism of the Holy Spirit". It is wonderful and all you have to do is ask Him. It is okay to have a group of people pray for you for the Baptism or "Shower in the Holy Spirit". It is wonderful...nothing weird. Once that happened to me the Lord started teaching me so many things and my spiritual experience expanded greatly. But once you experience this "fullness of the Spirit" you need to get yourself planted into a church that teaches the Full Gospel. Be careful not to get caught up in any sect that forces members to wear their hair long, avoid makeup, and jewelry, etc. Look in the phone book for Charismatic or Full Gospel churches. You will be glad you did!

Answer 4

Follow your heart. I think that you may find Catholicism a little more realistic, more educational than Fundamentalists. As long as you love God you will be fine. I think that it is healthy to explore different faiths, then you can form a more mature relationship with God. I think that it is strange that you say your family will be unhappy, why?, it is not like you are becoming an axe murderer.

God Bless You

Answer 5

I know some Catholics who are freer and more joyous believers in Christ than many of their non-Catholic counterparts. I just recently went to a funeral at a Catholic church and heard more straight-up preaching of the Gospel than I've heard preached in a great many non-Catholic churches. And I rejoiced to hear the Gospel actually being preached! Many non-Catholic churches have abadoned the faith that was once delivered to the saints in favor or vain philosophy. It's a sad fact, but a fact nonetheless.

It is important where you fellowship, but it's even more important that you are born again. For those who are not born again cannot see the kingdom of God. If you are born again, then Jesus wants to baptize you into His body, which is the biblical definition of the church, by the Holy Spirit. If you know you that it is Jesus, who is Lord, leading you to the Catholic church, then that's all you need to know, right? Ultimately, it's Him you will have to answer to and not man.

Answer 6

Am glad you're starting to believe. My advice would be follow the Bible, you'll find there precious lessons a the truth about life.

"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." -- Jesus --

"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." -- Jesus --

"These are the Scriptures that testify about me," -- Jesus --

The Bible testifies about God. Study the Bible to find God's will for your life. He'll never force His will upon you, and He'll never do anything for your sadness.

You may check out these webpage: http://www.amazingfacts.org/items/study_guides.asp?tTitle=New%20Revelation

I, the LORD, speak the truth; I declare what is right. Isaiah 45:19

Answer 7

I have a friend who conveted to Christianity. His family is atheist, and they got upset at him. Whenever you become a Christian the enemy, Satan, will use whoever he can to try and bring you down. He will use those closest to you because they usually have the biggest impact on you. If they don't have Christ then they will not be able stop him, nor will they have any idea what is going on. Watch out for this if you convert. I would suggest that you surround yourself with Christians.

Answer 8

Religion does not save you, Jesus does. I have Lutheran background, so I was baptized as a baby, and confirmed at the age of 15. I walked away from my childhood faith, and I found my way back.

I currently attend the non-denominational Christian church. And I am very happy. Relationship with God is the most important thing.

Answer 9

I think you are telling a fib. If you were raised a fundamentalist, you could not do enough research to convince you to consider catholicism. That dog won't hunt.
What are you really after?

Answer 10

Considering that the reformers believed the Catholic church to be antichrist, I would be hesitant to join that apostate church. There can be no union between Christ and antichrist.

The Bible is the highest authority, not the Pope or the church, or tradition.