Not a church-goer, but a believer??

Question

My family is Catholic and I don't go to church as often as I should or used to. I realize that I am sort of afraid to establish a relationship with God and I do fear Him, but I don't know why. My mom works every Sunday and no one else can drive me and my sister to church. I don't consider myself to be a devout Catholic because I was not raised in the church, but my mom and aunts kind of were. I feel left out when my friends all know a lot about the Bible and I don't. I feel like I'm sinning or something, although i do pray quite often (at least once a day)...what should I do?

Answer 1

You've already got a good start.God can do wonders with a willing heart.I am sorry if this offends but I can understand why you would have a lack of interest in church.I have found the catholic religion very unfulfilling and lacking in truth.I know this sounds bold but just try it, you can go to church wherever you choose to.Look in the phone book for an Assembly of God church.Call them and ask if there would be someone that could give you a ride to and from church.Be sure and take your Bible with you, they use it there.If they can't give you a ride, forget everything I just said.

Answer 2

God wants a personal relationship with you first then He wants you to find a place where you can go and worship with others - if there is a problem with a ride ask one of those friends to take you or find a church that you can walk or take a bus to - it is important but not a sin - I would also say that reading the Bible is very important but also get some Christians books to help you understand what is being written - scripture can be easily confussed and then you will likely give up all together if you are not understanding it properly - there are lots of things you can find online or on the radio to hear and learn to understand God's Word
I will pray for you - God Bless

Answer 3

I too have been afraid to open up to God. I'm 29. I grew up in the church so I know a lot of things about the Bible. It's always a risk, but every time I've taken a step, I've been glad. I've never regretted getting closer to God. You can totally read the Bible on your own. You're encouraged to. It's God's words speaking to you personally.

You're not sinning to not go to church, especially at a young age. The reason to go is to worship God in a community and to have a group of people around you to support you in your walk. It's hard to live a holy life out here in the world, and having a group of friends that are walking with you makes it easier. They are there to support you and give advice and help you. It's a great thing. I would encourage you to find a good church as soon as you are able. Look for a friendly place with good people that you can trust and look up to.

Answer 4

I am not a church goer, but I study the Word all the time.
You can go to i-tunes and get podcasts daily that will help you with bible study. There are a couple really good ones that I listen to.
You can also find someone who is willing to help you with bible study. Do your friends go to a youth group? Youth is awesome for kids like you. Both my older children have been involved in youth. They love it and are constantly learning on their level which is important. Also, they do alot of great activities with youth. During the summer they go to spirit west coast, that is a Christian music festival that lasts like three or four day's. It is just a great opportunity for teens.
If you are in prayer at least once a day, sweetie, you have a relationship with God. The Father is not only in church.....He is everywhere.

Answer 5

Strange, if you were baptized into a Catholic family, there should have been some kind of a promise to raise you accordingly. If I'm not mistaken, Mass is an obligation.

What about a phone call to the local priest to explain your situation? Could Mass be said in your home? Have you talked to your parents about how important this part of your life is to you? I "feel your fear" of an Almighty God, but that God has also invited you into a relationship with Him, and your priest will verify that (he better, anyway!). So, time to make your life better. Take some action, and good luck.

Answer 6

The role of the church in Christianity is very powerful, since the beginning. The church at times control the lives of its followers. In the past, priests and church ministers were seen as someone who cannot sin, and a person who has the authority to forgive sins. But you can't stay away from the church, since Jesus in the Bible has said that his teachings is a religion, and the church plays a significant role in this religion.

Islam, however, does not have such an institution. You should study Islam, to get closer to God. Islam also believes in Jesus as God's messenger and prophet, but not as a redeemer nor Son of God.

Answer 7

Begin studying the Holy Bible.

If you want a closer relationship with Jesus, spend time with Him. We can do this through daily Bible reading, prayer, praise (music, songs, www.klove.com) and worship.

If you don't know where to start in the Holy Bible...start with the Book of John in the New Testament. Once you've read it, read it again!

Then I would suggest going to the book of Jude (the one before Revelation) read it. Then read book by book going back to Matthew. You don't need to speed read, take your time and study it. Once you understand the New Testament, begin reading Malachi (last book of the Old Testament) and continued book by book until you get to Genesis. It might seem a little weird but I promise if you seek the Lord earnestly (with your heart) you will find Him...He will reveal Himself to you.

Try not to "fear" God instead, respect Him, Love Him...adore Him.

God loves you so much that He sent His only Son for you.

I hope this helps!

Jesus saves, forgives and LIVES!!!

Answer 8

If you can get to church that would be great for a lot of reasons. But church attendance is not a requirement to be a christian or to enter Heaven for that matter. Place your faith in Christ. Read your bible. Pray. Pray. Pray. Ask God to guide you where He wants you to be. Everything else will come naturally

Answer 9

As always, you do your best. The fact that you have a prayer life is a great thing! Since you can't get to church for bible study or other religious education, do some research online:

http://www.disciplesnow.com/ (for Catholic teens)
http://www.lifeteen.com/ (for Catholic teens)
http://www.bustedhalo.com/ (for Catholic "young adults")

Answer 10

Hebrew 10:25.