Eric, thank you for the resources you're putting together here. I'm a Protestant, from the Reformed tradition (although many years working in different cultural contexts have led me to hold that fairly loosely) but in recent months have (due to my work) had occasion to talk to a number of Catholics about their faith and also attended Mass a couple of times. This, along with some other things, has led me to think I should at least investigate the Catholic church and learn more about it. I have a lot of questions, as you recognise many Protestants would have, but I look forward to reading more and perhaps eventually chatting to the local Catholic priest to learn more from someone in person; unfortunately I don't have any Catholic friends I can talk to, and most of my Protestant church friends would be horrified that I might have such an idea. It actually kind of shocks me how many of my Christian friends and family members wouldn't even recognise Catholics as fellow Christians, due to the many misconceptions there are.
Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for writing this; I'll be reading and carefully considering more of your articles and some of the resources you recommend.
Hello Caitriana, sorry for the delayed response! Thank you so much for the kind words. If there are particular issues you would find helpful to see addressed, please don't be shy about reaching out. I know how overwhelming and strange exploring Catholicism can be. A local priest is a good idea, though fair warning that your mileage may vary. Priests have 7 years of seminary, but the quality of seminary formation is sadly not uniform (though younger priests tend to be better formed in America) and parish responsibilities may not have left them time for extensive study. That's just to say, the average parish priest is well-equipped for most questions but shouldn't be your only source of information. You'll always want to make your first stop the Catechism of the Catholic Church, available in print or online here: https://usccb.cld.bz/Catechism-of-the-Catholic-Church/
Lastly, I know how lonely and scary seriously considering Catholicism can be in a context like yours. I felt some fear, but mostly sorrow that there would be some degree of separation from me and nearly everyone I loved, even if we were still all Christian. That said, it was the best decision I ever made. Seeking the fullness of Christ is always worthwhile, no matter the cost. I'll be keeping you in prayer!
Eric, thank you for the resources you're putting together here. I'm a Protestant, from the Reformed tradition (although many years working in different cultural contexts have led me to hold that fairly loosely) but in recent months have (due to my work) had occasion to talk to a number of Catholics about their faith and also attended Mass a couple of times. This, along with some other things, has led me to think I should at least investigate the Catholic church and learn more about it. I have a lot of questions, as you recognise many Protestants would have, but I look forward to reading more and perhaps eventually chatting to the local Catholic priest to learn more from someone in person; unfortunately I don't have any Catholic friends I can talk to, and most of my Protestant church friends would be horrified that I might have such an idea. It actually kind of shocks me how many of my Christian friends and family members wouldn't even recognise Catholics as fellow Christians, due to the many misconceptions there are.
Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for writing this; I'll be reading and carefully considering more of your articles and some of the resources you recommend.
Hello Caitriana, sorry for the delayed response! Thank you so much for the kind words. If there are particular issues you would find helpful to see addressed, please don't be shy about reaching out. I know how overwhelming and strange exploring Catholicism can be. A local priest is a good idea, though fair warning that your mileage may vary. Priests have 7 years of seminary, but the quality of seminary formation is sadly not uniform (though younger priests tend to be better formed in America) and parish responsibilities may not have left them time for extensive study. That's just to say, the average parish priest is well-equipped for most questions but shouldn't be your only source of information. You'll always want to make your first stop the Catechism of the Catholic Church, available in print or online here: https://usccb.cld.bz/Catechism-of-the-Catholic-Church/
Lastly, I know how lonely and scary seriously considering Catholicism can be in a context like yours. I felt some fear, but mostly sorrow that there would be some degree of separation from me and nearly everyone I loved, even if we were still all Christian. That said, it was the best decision I ever made. Seeking the fullness of Christ is always worthwhile, no matter the cost. I'll be keeping you in prayer!
Thank you Eric, I appreciate your response! I may be in touch if I have questions I can't find answers for!