CATHOLICS COMING HOME TO THE CHURCH
The Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination in the United States, accounting for about 25 percent of the country’s population. The Church continues to grow and many people have chosen to convert to Catholicism. The Church is a vibrant, active community of believers which continues to have a positive influence on the lives of many people. However, there are people who for one reason or another have stopped actively participating in the Church and attending Mass. We live in a busy culture and society. There are many demands that are placed on us. Yet people are searching for a deeper sense of meaning, for a closer relationship with God, and for a more authentic spiritual identity.
Since the Church is a family, we miss those Catholics who may have left the Church or who have stopped participating in its vibrant liturgy and sacramental life. Perhaps you or someone you know are in this situation and do not know how to come back or how to become active again. The first thing you need to know is that you are always welcome back. The Church misses you and hopes that you will choose to come home as an active member.
Please feel free to explore any questions you may have about the Catholic Church or how you can return to an active participation in the Church by visiting the Catholics Come Home website.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
People have chosen to enter the Catholic Church for various reasons. Members of the Church have different understandings of what makes them Catholic or why they are Catholic. However, there is a common thread that binds all Catholics together. Catholics belong to a Christ-centered faith community that views Jesus Christ as the foundation. Catholics share Jesus’ vision and model their lives after Jesus’ example of love. Catholics are called to care for one another and to use their unique gifts and talents for the good of the community and the world. Below is a listing of some of the basic beliefs and values of a Catholic:
ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT BECOMING A CATHOLIC?
Becoming Catholic - Welcome to the Journey - GIVE US A CALL - 760-789-0583
In his weekly general audiences in 2006 and 2007, Pope Benedict XVI spoke about the lives of the apostles. In doing so, the Pope painted a picture of the apostles who were very much human and also very much searching for a deeper connection with God. Each one had to leave behind what was known in their lives and embark on a new journey with Jesus. This journey involved taking risks, trusting in God, and being open to change and conversion. When the journey was over, this ragtag group of individuals had become a true community of faith, hope, and charity. The Church was born.
Perhaps you find yourself in a similar situation. You are searching for meaning in life. You hear Jesus’ call to “come and follow me.” You desire closeness and intimacy with God. You want to be a part of a community of faith. You have come to the right place!
Our hearts seek the One who creates us and who seeks us as well. The God of mystery became visible when Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was born into our world and lived a human life as one of us, teaching us how to live and love. His death and resurrection reconciled us to the Father and to one another and gave us the promise of eternal life. Jesus is the starting point and center of Christianity. He entrusted his apostles with the mission of continuing his presence on earth. Within the Church, life is no longer a solitary search for meaning, but rather a journey with companions in the faith. God reaches out to His Church community, the family of God, and they reach back together to the God who is love.
The Catholic Church welcomes your interest in our Church. The initiation process has been a blessing for the Church. Those in the Catholic faith community speak of the renewal of their own faith as they witness those engaged in the initiation process prepare to become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church.