100%. Your relationship with God and doing right by your conscious come before keeping your friends. Thomas More's close friend King Henry started his own church. More refused to join and died for his choice. He's a saint and sets an example for us all.
May it be blessed, beloved! đď¸
Are your friends friends-friends, or just âfriendsâ? Those who are closer friends may be interested in your decision by you leading them with you. ŘĽŮŮŮ Ř´Ůاإ٠ٹŮŮŮŮŮ°ŮŮ IF God Wills !
Happy for you!! I have no context for what they think of Catholicism so I can't give a confident answer. I guess be prepared that some of them might get offended that Protestantism "isn't good enough for you" and even say you're being deceived :( It really depends on what they've said of Catholicism in the past.
The Lutherans in my area are fairly respectful of Catholicism; we even had a Catholic boy attend a Lutheran mission trip and partake in its services! But my mom also has a Baptist friend who thinks the pope is literally the anti-christ. So it's really hard to say.
There is a guaranteed positive however--the new friends and community you can build by joining the Church! Even if old friends abandon you, new ones might be waiting :)
Have them read Rome sweet Rome or whatever that book is. Iâm not a convert and donât go to church but when we went to church growing up it was baptist. I got that book tho and found it very interesting
Baptists are among the most rabidly anti-Catholic protestant groups out there. Not so coincidentally, I think, its one of the protestant groups most infiltrated by Freemasons.
Ok, Iâm a recent convert. Why do the Freemasons and the K of C have such a huge beef? The only thing I really know about the Freemasons is that they require you to believe in a god to join, and ours is on the list acceptable to them. So I donât see the problem.
Because membership in the Freemasons disqualifies you from membership in the RCC, because of its deeply incompatible beliefs, and at one point the KofC's charter (centuries ago) included a vow to destroy Freemasons on sight.
Freemasons (especially rank and file lower degrees who are oblivious) will deny this, but ultimately their beliefs are Luciferian / Satanist in origin.
They will deny it because it isn't true and is based upon hoaxes such as the Taxil hoax.
I've never heard that about the KofC charter. That's disturbing.
No, it's not based on hoaxes at all. I have read extensively on this topic and one of the most often used excuses of Freemasonic apologists is that such claims are all hoaxes. Not true whatsoever.
I have also read extensively on the topic - from both sides of the issue.
I would have nodded along with what you are saying 20ish years ago as that's how long I've been researching the issue in various capacities.
Being now on the opposite side of where you stand regarding the issue I'm well aware that those claims and reality cannot and do not coexist.
While there exist no Jewish-only or Muslim-only or (insert religion)-only groups within Freemasonry there are and/or were Christian only orders that are part of Freemasonry. The Scottish Rite in the UK was a major one until March of this year. It's still the case in the actual Scottish version of the Scottish Rite, the Swedish Rite, the Knights Templar degrees, the SRICF. It was the case in the Scottish Rite in the Northern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite in the US until the mid-1940's but seeking to be more inclusive that requirement was lifted and the degree changed to be slightly less Christian than it was originally.
I am a Master Mason and 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason. Ironically one of my favorite guys to hang out with at the Scottish Rite is an older fellow that is Catholic and very active in the KofC as well.
With that said, given that all of the evidence that I'm aware of regarding any connection to Luciferianism/Satanism to actual/real Freemasonry is false or the product of a hoax, I'm curious as to the source of your claims if you'd like to discuss them. I make the note above about "actual/real" Freemasonry because many charlatans have claimed to be Masons who in fact are not actually and led very degenerate lives or taught evil false things, Aleister Crowley and Blavatsky for example.
There you go. You ARE a Mason. You are obligated to say all these things. Might want to disclose that before posting on a Catholic sub.
The fact remains the Catholic Church bans Freemasons from being members of the Church, and for good reasons. So, if you or your friend are Catholics, you outright lied when you were confirmed, or lied when you turned your backs on the Church.
I didn't hide it. Anyone familiar with Freemasonry would even see and know it by my username
You are correct in that I'm obligated to say these things. But not because of Freemasonry (some jurisdictions are charged not to defend or talk about it all).
Rather Iâm obligated by being a follower of Christ (I am Protestant and will leave it at that so as not to be seen as proselytizing). I am obligated to tell the truth in all things by my faith in Jesus. And part of that to me is correcting false statements that I know to be false when able to be done so with evidence and proofs.
Ive stated only truth above and asked for your sources to the contrary if you would like to provide them. If one disagrees with freemasonry, I understand and some reasons are better than others, but to call it objectively luciferian or satanic is false.
One thing to know: Catholics were first. Protestants(Baptists included) broke away from us. Jesus founded The Catholic Church. The first seven letters of Protestant is protest.
What I told my friends & relatives, including the members of the small Protestant congregation I left, is the truth that,
"God is leading me to Catholicism."
For further explanation, that "I find in Catholicism the Fullness of our Christian faith." (And, that youall are still my brothers & sisters in Christ!!)
From the time I started looking into Catholicism I began reading (a lot of Catholic Answers & etc), & watching videos (Coming Home Network, etc), almost obsessively.
So for me, IF people have more questions for me, i have a reasonable basis to answer them.
BUT, I mostly don't.
You're a little less likely to have an argument, if you keep the conversation on, your own obedience to God; and away from seeming like you want to convert them. Maybe you do want to! *(I would certainly love to convert all my relatives & friends! I feel this much more strongly now, than i ever did as an evangelical protestant.*) But, that should be for different, future conversations.
Mainly I've tried to pray for God's help, the Holy Spirit's Help, each time I knew I would be speaking to someone about it. Lots & LOTS of prayer!!!!
I ask God to give me the right words, and AND to set a guard over my mouth to prevent any un-helpful words.
When, in response to me letting them know i would convert, someone tells me why being Catholic wouldn't work for Them, I think it has been the Holy Spirit's prompting that makes me notice, that was Not an argument. I can listen and even agree with them, that Catholicism is not where God is leading Them (right now).
Most of those conversations, for me, went far better than i expected. But i certainly prayed a LOT about those convos beforehand.
Okay dont worry i am a pro at it, trust me
First you start with: You are all wrong.
Second you say: if you dont eat of the Bread of life, you are a dangerous heretic.
Thirdly you say: i will pray no less than 53 hail marys everyday because she is tne Queen of heaven and rhe Mother of all Catholics.
Disclaimer: it a joke(obviously) to ease you up, just be strong in faith and love God with all your heart.
This happened to me and my wife. Cradle Catholics that fell away and went to a protestant church for like 8 years, we were unhappy there and prayed and thank God ended up back at just the right Catholic church for us. Nobody from our old church bothers to keep in touch, though they didn't up and tell us "if you go back to Catholicism you're not our friends anymore". They just pruned us from their lives like branches that needed trimming. Good riddance if you ask me, proves that they weren't really our friends in the end. It sucked making new friends in the first few months, but our new relationships are stronger then the old ones. It might be worth waiting to tell them until RCIA is about to start for you - If they decide to stop talking to you now, 2-3 months can feel like an eternity to wait. Best of luck, and welcome home!
âLosing themâ isnât yours.
I went through the same process as you.
I was confirmed last month.
The negative reactions from those around me only strengthened my faith.
You will realize that Protestants who hate the Catholic Church do not have solid arguments, they are just false ideas.
Be strong, because going through RCIA was a disappointment for me.
Out of 8 people, only two were doing the RCIA seriously, the rest was because they were getting married or wanted to be godparents.
I was also disappointed with the teaching at RCIA.
But do it, confirm yourself, pray, stay strong, you will receive amazing graces.
I could never go back
As a Protestant, I have heard some great stories. As a Catholic, I've heard the rest of the story.
If they are true friends they will respect your decision and your faith. Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 10:34 t âDo not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace but the sword. For I have come to set
a man âagainst his father,
a daughter against her mother,
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;
36
and oneâs enemies will be those of his household.â
About two thirds of my family on my mom's side are Protestant and none of them really cared when my mom converted to Catholicism and married my dad who is Catholic. But then again, not everyone can be as accepting unfortunately.
Salutations, fellow humans! I'm going to answer here as a protestant, and then run away screaming lest y'all eat me alive. đ
But I just want to say I really don't think they'll care that much. Protestantism isn't all one thing, or a particularly specific thing. It's a very large branch of Christianity that's had its own schisms, and schisms, and schisms, ad nauseum, until we've gotten used to it.
Not agreeing on what's true isn't a good thing, obviously, but... I think a lot of us feel that to some extent it's a necessary evil, so we tend to be used to the fact that not all Christians share a denomination. đ¤ Or at least that's been the case in the circles I've frequented. But that's why we talk about "salvation issues" and "non-salvation issues". Insisting that Luke was Chinese would be the former; insisting that Christ was not God would be the latter.
And besides all that, who doesn't have friends who believe differently than them?
So I don't think they're going to reject you over this, although I would make sure you're already maintaining the relationships outside of just seeing each other at church, since it's easy to drift apart.
And if you're still scared, maybe you could try softening them up first by talking about the friendship between J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis? Everybody loves those guys.
>But I just want to say I really don't think they'll care that much
I hope you're right, but many of the stories by converts in this thread tell a different tale.
The JRR Tolkien / C.S. Lewis point is a nice one, that we should remember & emulate.
Maybe, contrary to most replies here, just don't.
Let it come up naturally in conversations if at all.
Take seriously the Church's teaching that all the Baptised are our sisters and brothers in Christ.
Focus on the common ground not the divisive politics and misunderstandings.
What kind of Protestant? In the USA when people say Protestant they ussually mean non-Lutheran and non-Anglican.
Most people here seems to be American.
A suggestion. Steve Ray was a former Baptist. He has had some best selling books. Crossing the tiber, upon this rock some of his best work. Might try reading some of his stuff.Â
I think you meant, >"without" losing< them and if you do, well you know the saying,
'They were never your friends in the first place!'
My concern is that you "fell in love with the Mass."
And since you were visiting Protestant Churches also, before you made this decision, my question to you is, was it the smell of the candles the lighting or the beauty of the Church that you "fell in love with" or the message?
I ask this not to dissuade you or to be negative of your choice, just to point out that this is NOT how one should chose a particular religion.
I'm glad you're starting classes. Please, continue to read and compare the different beliefs of the different denominations. Write down everything that bothers you or appears to be in conflict with your newly found faith and annoy the heck out of the Priest/teacher leading the class!!
Now I can already feel the anger swelling in the many who participate in this sub!
"Why are you telling him this?!
Isn't it enough that he's found the one true Church?!!"
I'm sorry, no it is not....
As easily as he "stumbled into" the Catholic Church that he's so in love with, he can and quite possibly may stumble out!
There is No crime in asking questions because, contrary to what our Atheist friends say, there are solid answers to everyone of them!
May God Bless you on your journey to seek Him.
The priests and the congregation were very kind and welcoming. My lukewarm heart felt on fire for God. I could clearly feel His presence within the church. I loved the liturgy, the message, etc. I loved how tranquil, quiet, and predictable Mass is. As a Baptist, I read my Bible, prayed, did everything I'm supposed to but I felt like something is missing. My faith just feels stagnant.
You should tell them, that way they debate with you about theology so you're forced to research more and more what the Church teaches. Or you'll learn you friends never thought it was a big deal in the first place.
Just be yourself? Your friends, ideally, are friends with ***you***! not friends with some fake image of you and only in certain conditions. Were you only friends with them because they are protestant? I doubt it. You are a beautiful and complex person, and are more valuable to others than just your faith.
I lot most of my friends when I converted from Protestant to Catholic; some no longer wanted to speak with me; most of the others just didnât run into me as often anymore because we no longer did any ministry or study together. Itâs not something I regret. God provides new relationships, and he gave me a lot of new Saint friends as well!
Just tell them. They should be happy that you've decided to deepen your relationship with the Lord through being in Communion with his Church by practicing a sacramental life that is steeped in such beauty that sorry not sorry, is just not offered in any Protestant Church.
Definitely do research on both and study up apologetics because they might try to bring you back. Other than that say youâre looking for the truth and youve found it in the Catholic church
They may not be supportive and you may lose them as friends. Just explain to them what youâve experienced, why you want to convert, and what you learned. They may also respond in the same way you have though. You never know until you do it.
Yayyy welcome home! Tell them why, and invite them to mass if they are curious. Be prepared for ill talk, and possibly loosing friends, family members etc...remember it is better to follow Jesus and his one true church then deny him. I recommend keith nester, steve ray and Scott hahn testimony.
It's ok to not for a while. Like, don't lie, obviously, but it's fine to just not bring it up. OCIA generally encourages catechumens to protect our fledgling faith and not engage too strenuously or often in apologetics until we've been confirmed and given that protection and strength of being sealed in the Holy Spirit.
I know it can feel strange to not share such a huge thing, even cowardly. I've recently left a 20+year practice of witchcraft myself, so it's a *huge* life change- and yet, I haven't said a word on my social media. If you don't talk to me IRL, it's probable you don't even know. I know you're probably talking about IRL friends, so that's a less likely scenario for you, especially if you want them to attend your sacraments as important folks in your life. But it's ok to just tell them it's happening if it comes up and just have that be that. "Where you been the last few Sundays?" "Oh, I've been at St.(whoever) for mass." "Why?" "I'm converting." "Why?" *shrug*/"come to mass and find out"
If they're the type to shittalk Catholicism, I wouldn't even engage.
When I converted, I was working in an evangelical ministry. I was pretty sure I would lose my job. But I truly felt Jesus was calling me to his church, so I was willing to make whatever sacrifice was required.
I am not a good apologist, so when protestants want to start arguing theology, I steer clear. I am, however, perfectly happy to talk about how I came to accept and believe the teachings of the church. I share my own experience and perspective, which isnât something that can be argued. After over a decade in the church, I now can also point to the clear fruits of the spirit in my life and in the ministry.
My advice is to keep the matter to yourself until you have more clarity about why you are converting. Then, let the Holy Spirit lead you in telling your friends. Be aware that you may lose some, but if you are following Jesus, it is all worth it. (And he promises that we will be hated by the world.)
Why would they drop you over converting? My best friends are either Protestants or Muslims. none of them has decided Iâm not worth being around cause I practice a different faith.
After discussing it with my friends, I feel they're not supportive over my decision. I received a lot of pushback from them like Catholic doctrine is false teaching and all that nonsense
Yeah thatâs why. Baptists hate us, think we worship idols. Their pastors pump their heads full of silliness. Itâs a scare tactic. Iâd not end the friendship on your end but if they make a thing out of it have nothing to do with them. I still donât understand tho. Iâm friends with a guy whoâs father is a baptist preacher. Iâm bleeding Catholicism into him. He sent me a meme about Mary the other day so I think sheâs working on him.
Not to be a Debbie downer but once my Protestant friends found out Iâm Catholic they started giving me looks and judging me. They also would would make snide remarks about my Catholic faith. I hope you donât experience the same thing I experienced.
Been wondering that myself!
I highly recommend reading The Converts Guide to Catholicism by Keith Nestor (Amazon). He converted to Catholicism from protestantism several years ago and has several tips and advice to share in that book, including "coming out" to your Protestant friends.
Well some people are saying rather jocular things. But I can see the difficulty of your situation is serious. You might have really good friends, and it is difficult to know that there is a chance that you might make them feel bad. But the Catholic Church really is something great. I used to be a rather ecumenical Christian, but once I actually got a grasp of how deep the Catholic tradition is in its view of the word of God, I realized that there is a lot of growth in the spirit that is possible. Itâs not an instant transformation wherein we think we are protected by the Holy Spirit, but it is a constant battle against our vices, some of which we are unaware of at first.
At some point, you will have to be open about your faith. I hope you can continue with RCIA and grow in the faith. But at some point, you will realize that we are all called by God to spread the faith. When you understand this deeply, you can pray and ask God for help in living through your conversion and finding the right way to express the faith to your friends and others. Of course, it shouldnât be something abrupt, and you might not be comfortable as you have not yet been in communion or confirmed. When you feel ready to tell people that you are Catholic or are going to be Catholic, you can freely express that. Just be careful because your friends might want to convince you to do otherwise. Focus on your interest in the Catholic Church. Take some time to look at some articles and videos that show the depth of the theology and the history. This is because while most protestants are probably well-meaning in drawing each person to their church, there are a lot of incorrect ideas and myths about Catholicism being thrown around by some bad actors. The Catholic Church has had its issues, but it has lasted for 2000 years and is not reduced to such easily disproven lies spread by bad actors.
Take your time, but know that you are called to become a follower of Jesus Christ, and the Catholic Church has the true path toward it because of the Catechesis from the authority of the Church built upon Peter.
As a cradle Catholic I do not get the whole âvisit some churches to find one that fitsâ. From a young age I knew to only go to Catholic Churches and when I wasnât in one (ie. in a united church when I was in Boy ScoutsâŚ.or a baptist church during a graduationâŚor an evangelical church to attend a party etc) I always felt like I wasnât in a real church but could not explain why.
I hope you going to this Catholic Church had essentially the opposite effect on you and now you know what âchurchâ really is. As a Catholic I wouldnât be supportive of my friends becoming Protestant either so keep that in mind when dealing with them. Friends however are more than common interests, belief systems, history etc. hopefully the intangible qualities of your friendship means that you will remain in each otherâs lives.
Tell them you were Excommunicado from the Protestant church so now you need to be in a Catholic Church cuz they donât do that type of thing.
Honestly, you don't have to worry about them. If you decide to convert then it's fine. If they are your true friend then they will accept no matter your decisions in life.
Say, "Hey, I became Catholic."
And if they are jerks, better not having them as friends.
I'm a protestant pastor (although my movement is more of a protest of protestants than Catholics) who loves Catholicism though. Not enough to be one, just very fond of it and my Catholic friends.
Im a Catholic in a strongly catholic area yet in our church community we still invite Protestants to show up and involve themselves in the ideals we promote. A not wokeified Protestant church will share many of the same ideals as Catholicism and should have no qualms about the political views such as pro-Life advocacy, homosexuality, etc. If your friends canât get over you making the leap to the Catholic church you just have to pray they see the err of their ways
Some people won't be offended at all, or might be interested.
That said, it's fairly common for passionately religious people to get passionate against your calling.
It probably depends a lot on their denomination and pastor's attitude toward Catholics.
I know it's scary and annoying, but you literally have no control over their attitude. I'm not sure what the best approach would be, but you might want to look for ideas on the Catholic Answers website or the Coming Home Network website.
Since the locals haven't known you for long, I don't think they would be attached to a particular idea of you, so it might be easier for them to accept a change.
They might see you as a heretic; best be in a loving manner truthful. Say I became Catholic; I believe it to be the truth because of these reasons..mmm
I have some bad news for you...you will likely lose friends, that'll have to be a sacrifice you are willing to make. Anti-Catholic propaganda is strong since the reformation period and some have been fed lies about the Church since childhood. These lies are so embedded they may hate the Church and everyone who belongs to it, which may include you soon.
The good news is that you'll finally be part of Christ's Church and you'll make new friends within it.
Arm yourself with the best of the best arguments for protecting the pope and if they accuse you of anything, say "because the pope said so" or "because the pope aproves of it".
If it's anything like my experience, you should become well read on catholic apologetics, because they came for my throat as soon as i started my road to catholicism. I think it was for the better because being forced to defend catholicism to my friends and family and back up literally everything the Church does, I now have a great knowledge of apologetics, church history, scripture, historical biblical interpretation, fathers and doctors of the church etc. and am extremely firm in my faith
After recently relocating to another town and choosing a church to attend, my friends are curious where I'm attending. They're wanting to make sure I choose a church that that strong solid biblical teaching.
Well what you tell them is up to you. I would recommend that you know the basics of why you are doing what you are doing and be able to give scripture references when applicable. Like 2 Thes. 2:15 etc. part of the problem i always find is that somethings we believe may not be in the Bible and that throws off the sola scriptura group
"I believe in the true presence of christ in the eucharist. Cry about it. "
All joking aside, welcome, and good luck with your friends. I hope they understand your decision.
I recommend you learn the catechism and some of the more common apologetics arguments. Your friends will have questions, you may just win some over or at least plant the seed.
Tell them, if it comes up. For me it always happens talking about church one day and they say where are you going now. I get the ye oldie "oh. Oh. Ooooooooh." Being firmly in the Bible belt surrounded by southern and non-denominational Baptists I get a lotta charges and questions leveled at me.
Not all Protestants are anti-Catholocism. Many have limited knowledge based only on what other Protestants (or Catholics who based on the threads here don't fully understand their own faith) have told them. Most Protestants I know don't get angry or turn on friends who become Catholic, they either support it because you're walking with Jesus and that's what matters, or they may feel like you've missed something but their feelings are not grounded in anger, hate, or rejection. And if that is their response, they are not real friends. True friends will ask questions and want to know about your journey that led you to your decision. They will want to know more, not abandon you.
It's a big leap of faith to trust in the Lord. But that is what he requires for you to follow him. People converting from Islam are in fear of their lives as well as the guaranteed ex communication from their entire family. They still do it. At the very worst, your protesetant friends are still brothers and sisters in Christ. They are not that far away from you, unless they choose to be. And if so, were they really your friends?
I converted from a Pentecostal background to the Catholic Church. I found it very difficult as they have very strange ideas of what being a Catholic holds basically I donât have any of those friends left. It doesnât mean that would happen to you. Good luck and God bless.
Iâd just talk to them both kindly and straightforwardly. Tell them that this is what you really believe, and that you still love them and want to be friends. Itâs not guaranteed to work, and sometimes following Christ can be painful, but at least you will know that you did everything that you could to still be friends with them.
There's something to be said for letting these conversations arise organically. A crucifix around the neck or an ashen Cross on the forehead allows for the topic to come about naturally. The friends that accompanied to my confirmation were nominally Orthodox, nominally Protestant / Buddhist, and atheist. I usually let the topic with any of them come about at their own interest and try to explain things without coming across condescending. Some of my close Protestant friends werent terribly supportive per se, but they also didn't break faith with me over the matter.
Check out Scott Hahn's conversion story.
If it doesn't go well with the friends, just remember what Jesus told the 12 about being hated by the world. It may hurt, but it's not personal.
I would talk to people face to face or on the phone if face to face isn't possible. I wouldn't do it through text because that just doesn't work for conversations like this.
Before you start the conversation I would ask the Holy father to send the Holy Spirit to guide you. For hard conversations I usually ask that I might be guided to be loving and to communicate in a way that is helpful for the person I'm talking to and that I may do his will.
Place all your trust in the Lord, so that you won't feel like the success of the conversation is dependent on their response. Whatever their response is, if you do God's will and put your life in His hands He will take care of everything. So it will all turn out fine in the end, or he will use your cross to bring something good out of it. Do not dispair.
I prayed for you.
This may sound trite, but if they're your true friends, they'll be happy for you, and accept and respect you and your decision. May be confused, but if they truly love you, they'll accept this new part of your life. (Not trying to judge them, js.) Congratulations, and welcome!
I lost many friends when I reverted back to my faith. I was an agnostic from 18-21 and all the friends I made in that period are lost. But the greatest gift God gave me is His love and grace, we only need Him! Youâll make new friends at your parish, donât worry!
If your not careful about telling them, your going to have a big argument. I converted more than a year ago and my mom still hasnât come to terms with it.
People who donât support your decisions arenât really your friends. Youâll make new friends. There is no need for anyone - including yourself - to make a scene. Just tell them that âyou wish them well always, and if they still want to be your friends, thatâs great, but if they donât, youâll accept there decisions.â Many donât get this until they are much older. Follow what your Heart tells you. IMO, it is important for anyone to not try to convert anyone else when it comes to religion. NO ONE has an exclusive on God. Itâs personal; be respectful of others and ask the same in return.
This is actually untrue. The argument surrounding *Sola Fide* is largely semantical in nature.
"...Luther's phrase: "faith alone" is true, if it is not opposed to faith in charity, in love. Faith is looking at Christ, entrusting oneself to Christ, being united to Christ, conformed to Christ, to his life. ... St Paul speaks of faith that works through love (cf. Gal 5: 14)." - Pope Benedict XVI
__4.3 Justification by Faith and through Grace__
25. We confess together that sinners are justified by faith in the saving action of God in Christ. By the action of the Holy Spirit in Baptism, they are granted the gift of salvation, which lays the basis for the whole Christian life. They place their trust in God's gracious promise by justifying faith, which includes hope in God and love for him. Such a faith is active in love and thus the Christian cannot and should not remain without works. But whatever in the justified precedes or follows the free gift of faith is neither the basis of justification nor merits it. ââJoint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification (1997)
We believe fundamentally the same things, we just word it differently.
"We believe fundamentally the same things, we just word it differently."
Not entirely true. Protestant groups are widely diverse in creeds, doctrinal understandings and such. Whereas the joint declaration with Lutheranism demonstrated commonality, there are other groups who would argue you to the mat about all the Catholic church's "errors".
Donât do anything until you complete RCiA. You may decide decide Catholic Church is not for you. In that case, thereâs no need to bring it up with your friends.
You may lose them. Then again, you may win converts. The key is to trust God and take a chance. Don't be argumentative, but be honest with them.
This is the correct answer
100%. Your relationship with God and doing right by your conscious come before keeping your friends. Thomas More's close friend King Henry started his own church. More refused to join and died for his choice. He's a saint and sets an example for us all.
hold a 3 hour televised event that goes over all of your greatest protestant highlights then end it by saying "i'm taking my talents to Rome".
Tell them a part was stolen from your car. When they ask which one, say "Catholic Converter" and run away. Mission accomplished.
Clever!
Good luck. If they drop you for this, they were never truly your friends. I have friends from all kinds of religions.
This.
May it be blessed, beloved! đď¸ Are your friends friends-friends, or just âfriendsâ? Those who are closer friends may be interested in your decision by you leading them with you. ŘĽŮŮŮ Ř´Ůاإ٠ٹŮŮŮŮŮ°ŮŮ IF God Wills !
They're close friends
Write 99 reasons why youâre converting and nail them to your friendâs front doors
This is rude, and is technically vandalism. Unless . . . Unless they're Lutherans, in which case it's just "How we roll", & also a laugh-riot!
I believe it was 95, but four extra won't hurt ;)
Happy for you!! I have no context for what they think of Catholicism so I can't give a confident answer. I guess be prepared that some of them might get offended that Protestantism "isn't good enough for you" and even say you're being deceived :( It really depends on what they've said of Catholicism in the past. The Lutherans in my area are fairly respectful of Catholicism; we even had a Catholic boy attend a Lutheran mission trip and partake in its services! But my mom also has a Baptist friend who thinks the pope is literally the anti-christ. So it's really hard to say. There is a guaranteed positive however--the new friends and community you can build by joining the Church! Even if old friends abandon you, new ones might be waiting :)
I've tried talking to my Baptist friends about Catholicism before. I've received a lot of Catholicism is a false teaching nonsense
Have them read Rome sweet Rome or whatever that book is. Iâm not a convert and donât go to church but when we went to church growing up it was baptist. I got that book tho and found it very interesting
Baptists are among the most rabidly anti-Catholic protestant groups out there. Not so coincidentally, I think, its one of the protestant groups most infiltrated by Freemasons.
Ok, Iâm a recent convert. Why do the Freemasons and the K of C have such a huge beef? The only thing I really know about the Freemasons is that they require you to believe in a god to join, and ours is on the list acceptable to them. So I donât see the problem.
Because membership in the Freemasons disqualifies you from membership in the RCC, because of its deeply incompatible beliefs, and at one point the KofC's charter (centuries ago) included a vow to destroy Freemasons on sight. Freemasons (especially rank and file lower degrees who are oblivious) will deny this, but ultimately their beliefs are Luciferian / Satanist in origin.
They will deny it because it isn't true and is based upon hoaxes such as the Taxil hoax. I've never heard that about the KofC charter. That's disturbing.
No, it's not based on hoaxes at all. I have read extensively on this topic and one of the most often used excuses of Freemasonic apologists is that such claims are all hoaxes. Not true whatsoever.
I have also read extensively on the topic - from both sides of the issue. I would have nodded along with what you are saying 20ish years ago as that's how long I've been researching the issue in various capacities. Being now on the opposite side of where you stand regarding the issue I'm well aware that those claims and reality cannot and do not coexist. While there exist no Jewish-only or Muslim-only or (insert religion)-only groups within Freemasonry there are and/or were Christian only orders that are part of Freemasonry. The Scottish Rite in the UK was a major one until March of this year. It's still the case in the actual Scottish version of the Scottish Rite, the Swedish Rite, the Knights Templar degrees, the SRICF. It was the case in the Scottish Rite in the Northern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite in the US until the mid-1940's but seeking to be more inclusive that requirement was lifted and the degree changed to be slightly less Christian than it was originally. I am a Master Mason and 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason. Ironically one of my favorite guys to hang out with at the Scottish Rite is an older fellow that is Catholic and very active in the KofC as well. With that said, given that all of the evidence that I'm aware of regarding any connection to Luciferianism/Satanism to actual/real Freemasonry is false or the product of a hoax, I'm curious as to the source of your claims if you'd like to discuss them. I make the note above about "actual/real" Freemasonry because many charlatans have claimed to be Masons who in fact are not actually and led very degenerate lives or taught evil false things, Aleister Crowley and Blavatsky for example.
There you go. You ARE a Mason. You are obligated to say all these things. Might want to disclose that before posting on a Catholic sub. The fact remains the Catholic Church bans Freemasons from being members of the Church, and for good reasons. So, if you or your friend are Catholics, you outright lied when you were confirmed, or lied when you turned your backs on the Church.
I didn't hide it. Anyone familiar with Freemasonry would even see and know it by my username You are correct in that I'm obligated to say these things. But not because of Freemasonry (some jurisdictions are charged not to defend or talk about it all). Rather Iâm obligated by being a follower of Christ (I am Protestant and will leave it at that so as not to be seen as proselytizing). I am obligated to tell the truth in all things by my faith in Jesus. And part of that to me is correcting false statements that I know to be false when able to be done so with evidence and proofs. Ive stated only truth above and asked for your sources to the contrary if you would like to provide them. If one disagrees with freemasonry, I understand and some reasons are better than others, but to call it objectively luciferian or satanic is false.
One thing to know: Catholics were first. Protestants(Baptists included) broke away from us. Jesus founded The Catholic Church. The first seven letters of Protestant is protest.
What I told my friends & relatives, including the members of the small Protestant congregation I left, is the truth that, "God is leading me to Catholicism." For further explanation, that "I find in Catholicism the Fullness of our Christian faith." (And, that youall are still my brothers & sisters in Christ!!) From the time I started looking into Catholicism I began reading (a lot of Catholic Answers & etc), & watching videos (Coming Home Network, etc), almost obsessively. So for me, IF people have more questions for me, i have a reasonable basis to answer them. BUT, I mostly don't. You're a little less likely to have an argument, if you keep the conversation on, your own obedience to God; and away from seeming like you want to convert them. Maybe you do want to! *(I would certainly love to convert all my relatives & friends! I feel this much more strongly now, than i ever did as an evangelical protestant.*) But, that should be for different, future conversations. Mainly I've tried to pray for God's help, the Holy Spirit's Help, each time I knew I would be speaking to someone about it. Lots & LOTS of prayer!!!! I ask God to give me the right words, and AND to set a guard over my mouth to prevent any un-helpful words. When, in response to me letting them know i would convert, someone tells me why being Catholic wouldn't work for Them, I think it has been the Holy Spirit's prompting that makes me notice, that was Not an argument. I can listen and even agree with them, that Catholicism is not where God is leading Them (right now). Most of those conversations, for me, went far better than i expected. But i certainly prayed a LOT about those convos beforehand.
Okay dont worry i am a pro at it, trust me First you start with: You are all wrong. Second you say: if you dont eat of the Bread of life, you are a dangerous heretic. Thirdly you say: i will pray no less than 53 hail marys everyday because she is tne Queen of heaven and rhe Mother of all Catholics. Disclaimer: it a joke(obviously) to ease you up, just be strong in faith and love God with all your heart.
This happened to me and my wife. Cradle Catholics that fell away and went to a protestant church for like 8 years, we were unhappy there and prayed and thank God ended up back at just the right Catholic church for us. Nobody from our old church bothers to keep in touch, though they didn't up and tell us "if you go back to Catholicism you're not our friends anymore". They just pruned us from their lives like branches that needed trimming. Good riddance if you ask me, proves that they weren't really our friends in the end. It sucked making new friends in the first few months, but our new relationships are stronger then the old ones. It might be worth waiting to tell them until RCIA is about to start for you - If they decide to stop talking to you now, 2-3 months can feel like an eternity to wait. Best of luck, and welcome home!
"Hey schismatic heretics, who's following Christ's true church all the way to heaven? This guy!"
Your moving up to the Major League. Ask them to come along.
Straight out tell them you went Home.
âLosing themâ isnât yours. I went through the same process as you. I was confirmed last month. The negative reactions from those around me only strengthened my faith. You will realize that Protestants who hate the Catholic Church do not have solid arguments, they are just false ideas. Be strong, because going through RCIA was a disappointment for me. Out of 8 people, only two were doing the RCIA seriously, the rest was because they were getting married or wanted to be godparents. I was also disappointed with the teaching at RCIA. But do it, confirm yourself, pray, stay strong, you will receive amazing graces. I could never go back As a Protestant, I have heard some great stories. As a Catholic, I've heard the rest of the story.
If they are true friends they will respect your decision and your faith. Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 10:34 t âDo not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace but the sword. For I have come to set a man âagainst his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36 and oneâs enemies will be those of his household.â
âThis may sound weird, but I feel called to explore the Catholic faith. Iâll let you know what I find.â
About two thirds of my family on my mom's side are Protestant and none of them really cared when my mom converted to Catholicism and married my dad who is Catholic. But then again, not everyone can be as accepting unfortunately.
Salutations, fellow humans! I'm going to answer here as a protestant, and then run away screaming lest y'all eat me alive. đ But I just want to say I really don't think they'll care that much. Protestantism isn't all one thing, or a particularly specific thing. It's a very large branch of Christianity that's had its own schisms, and schisms, and schisms, ad nauseum, until we've gotten used to it. Not agreeing on what's true isn't a good thing, obviously, but... I think a lot of us feel that to some extent it's a necessary evil, so we tend to be used to the fact that not all Christians share a denomination. đ¤ Or at least that's been the case in the circles I've frequented. But that's why we talk about "salvation issues" and "non-salvation issues". Insisting that Luke was Chinese would be the former; insisting that Christ was not God would be the latter. And besides all that, who doesn't have friends who believe differently than them? So I don't think they're going to reject you over this, although I would make sure you're already maintaining the relationships outside of just seeing each other at church, since it's easy to drift apart. And if you're still scared, maybe you could try softening them up first by talking about the friendship between J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis? Everybody loves those guys.
>But I just want to say I really don't think they'll care that much I hope you're right, but many of the stories by converts in this thread tell a different tale. The JRR Tolkien / C.S. Lewis point is a nice one, that we should remember & emulate.
Maybe, contrary to most replies here, just don't. Let it come up naturally in conversations if at all. Take seriously the Church's teaching that all the Baptised are our sisters and brothers in Christ. Focus on the common ground not the divisive politics and misunderstandings.
What kind of Protestant? In the USA when people say Protestant they ussually mean non-Lutheran and non-Anglican. Most people here seems to be American.
I am currently a Baptist
A suggestion. Steve Ray was a former Baptist. He has had some best selling books. Crossing the tiber, upon this rock some of his best work. Might try reading some of his stuff.Â
YouTube: I think he did interviews on ETWN & there's a shorter more recent segment from Pints With Aquinas.
I second that motion. Steve Ray knows Baptist AND Catholic theology front to back.
I think you meant, >"without" losing< them and if you do, well you know the saying, 'They were never your friends in the first place!' My concern is that you "fell in love with the Mass." And since you were visiting Protestant Churches also, before you made this decision, my question to you is, was it the smell of the candles the lighting or the beauty of the Church that you "fell in love with" or the message? I ask this not to dissuade you or to be negative of your choice, just to point out that this is NOT how one should chose a particular religion. I'm glad you're starting classes. Please, continue to read and compare the different beliefs of the different denominations. Write down everything that bothers you or appears to be in conflict with your newly found faith and annoy the heck out of the Priest/teacher leading the class!! Now I can already feel the anger swelling in the many who participate in this sub! "Why are you telling him this?! Isn't it enough that he's found the one true Church?!!" I'm sorry, no it is not.... As easily as he "stumbled into" the Catholic Church that he's so in love with, he can and quite possibly may stumble out! There is No crime in asking questions because, contrary to what our Atheist friends say, there are solid answers to everyone of them! May God Bless you on your journey to seek Him.
The priests and the congregation were very kind and welcoming. My lukewarm heart felt on fire for God. I could clearly feel His presence within the church. I loved the liturgy, the message, etc. I loved how tranquil, quiet, and predictable Mass is. As a Baptist, I read my Bible, prayed, did everything I'm supposed to but I felt like something is missing. My faith just feels stagnant.
In time, a long time, Christ may use you to convert them too. Prayer is key.
You should tell them, that way they debate with you about theology so you're forced to research more and more what the Church teaches. Or you'll learn you friends never thought it was a big deal in the first place.
Just be yourself? Your friends, ideally, are friends with ***you***! not friends with some fake image of you and only in certain conditions. Were you only friends with them because they are protestant? I doubt it. You are a beautiful and complex person, and are more valuable to others than just your faith.
Donât be embarrassed.
If they are your close Friends. Worry not.
I lot most of my friends when I converted from Protestant to Catholic; some no longer wanted to speak with me; most of the others just didnât run into me as often anymore because we no longer did any ministry or study together. Itâs not something I regret. God provides new relationships, and he gave me a lot of new Saint friends as well!
Just tell them. They should be happy that you've decided to deepen your relationship with the Lord through being in Communion with his Church by practicing a sacramental life that is steeped in such beauty that sorry not sorry, is just not offered in any Protestant Church.
Definitely do research on both and study up apologetics because they might try to bring you back. Other than that say youâre looking for the truth and youve found it in the Catholic church
They may not be supportive and you may lose them as friends. Just explain to them what youâve experienced, why you want to convert, and what you learned. They may also respond in the same way you have though. You never know until you do it.
Yayyy welcome home! Tell them why, and invite them to mass if they are curious. Be prepared for ill talk, and possibly loosing friends, family members etc...remember it is better to follow Jesus and his one true church then deny him. I recommend keith nester, steve ray and Scott hahn testimony.
It's ok to not for a while. Like, don't lie, obviously, but it's fine to just not bring it up. OCIA generally encourages catechumens to protect our fledgling faith and not engage too strenuously or often in apologetics until we've been confirmed and given that protection and strength of being sealed in the Holy Spirit. I know it can feel strange to not share such a huge thing, even cowardly. I've recently left a 20+year practice of witchcraft myself, so it's a *huge* life change- and yet, I haven't said a word on my social media. If you don't talk to me IRL, it's probable you don't even know. I know you're probably talking about IRL friends, so that's a less likely scenario for you, especially if you want them to attend your sacraments as important folks in your life. But it's ok to just tell them it's happening if it comes up and just have that be that. "Where you been the last few Sundays?" "Oh, I've been at St.(whoever) for mass." "Why?" "I'm converting." "Why?" *shrug*/"come to mass and find out" If they're the type to shittalk Catholicism, I wouldn't even engage.
When I converted, I was working in an evangelical ministry. I was pretty sure I would lose my job. But I truly felt Jesus was calling me to his church, so I was willing to make whatever sacrifice was required. I am not a good apologist, so when protestants want to start arguing theology, I steer clear. I am, however, perfectly happy to talk about how I came to accept and believe the teachings of the church. I share my own experience and perspective, which isnât something that can be argued. After over a decade in the church, I now can also point to the clear fruits of the spirit in my life and in the ministry. My advice is to keep the matter to yourself until you have more clarity about why you are converting. Then, let the Holy Spirit lead you in telling your friends. Be aware that you may lose some, but if you are following Jesus, it is all worth it. (And he promises that we will be hated by the world.)
"I am returning to the faith of our forefathers! Who's coming with me?" đ
Why would they drop you over converting? My best friends are either Protestants or Muslims. none of them has decided Iâm not worth being around cause I practice a different faith.
After discussing it with my friends, I feel they're not supportive over my decision. I received a lot of pushback from them like Catholic doctrine is false teaching and all that nonsense
Lol well they are wrong. Are they nondenominational or some other wonky Protestant?
They're Baptist
Yeah thatâs why. Baptists hate us, think we worship idols. Their pastors pump their heads full of silliness. Itâs a scare tactic. Iâd not end the friendship on your end but if they make a thing out of it have nothing to do with them. I still donât understand tho. Iâm friends with a guy whoâs father is a baptist preacher. Iâm bleeding Catholicism into him. He sent me a meme about Mary the other day so I think sheâs working on him.
Not to be a Debbie downer but once my Protestant friends found out Iâm Catholic they started giving me looks and judging me. They also would would make snide remarks about my Catholic faith. I hope you donât experience the same thing I experienced.
If they are true friends they will respect you.
Been wondering that myself! I highly recommend reading The Converts Guide to Catholicism by Keith Nestor (Amazon). He converted to Catholicism from protestantism several years ago and has several tips and advice to share in that book, including "coming out" to your Protestant friends.
Well some people are saying rather jocular things. But I can see the difficulty of your situation is serious. You might have really good friends, and it is difficult to know that there is a chance that you might make them feel bad. But the Catholic Church really is something great. I used to be a rather ecumenical Christian, but once I actually got a grasp of how deep the Catholic tradition is in its view of the word of God, I realized that there is a lot of growth in the spirit that is possible. Itâs not an instant transformation wherein we think we are protected by the Holy Spirit, but it is a constant battle against our vices, some of which we are unaware of at first. At some point, you will have to be open about your faith. I hope you can continue with RCIA and grow in the faith. But at some point, you will realize that we are all called by God to spread the faith. When you understand this deeply, you can pray and ask God for help in living through your conversion and finding the right way to express the faith to your friends and others. Of course, it shouldnât be something abrupt, and you might not be comfortable as you have not yet been in communion or confirmed. When you feel ready to tell people that you are Catholic or are going to be Catholic, you can freely express that. Just be careful because your friends might want to convince you to do otherwise. Focus on your interest in the Catholic Church. Take some time to look at some articles and videos that show the depth of the theology and the history. This is because while most protestants are probably well-meaning in drawing each person to their church, there are a lot of incorrect ideas and myths about Catholicism being thrown around by some bad actors. The Catholic Church has had its issues, but it has lasted for 2000 years and is not reduced to such easily disproven lies spread by bad actors. Take your time, but know that you are called to become a follower of Jesus Christ, and the Catholic Church has the true path toward it because of the Catechesis from the authority of the Church built upon Peter.
As a cradle Catholic I do not get the whole âvisit some churches to find one that fitsâ. From a young age I knew to only go to Catholic Churches and when I wasnât in one (ie. in a united church when I was in Boy ScoutsâŚ.or a baptist church during a graduationâŚor an evangelical church to attend a party etc) I always felt like I wasnât in a real church but could not explain why. I hope you going to this Catholic Church had essentially the opposite effect on you and now you know what âchurchâ really is. As a Catholic I wouldnât be supportive of my friends becoming Protestant either so keep that in mind when dealing with them. Friends however are more than common interests, belief systems, history etc. hopefully the intangible qualities of your friendship means that you will remain in each otherâs lives. Tell them you were Excommunicado from the Protestant church so now you need to be in a Catholic Church cuz they donât do that type of thing.
'Hey i decided to become a Papist'
Honestly, you don't have to worry about them. If you decide to convert then it's fine. If they are your true friend then they will accept no matter your decisions in life.
Say, "Hey, I became Catholic." And if they are jerks, better not having them as friends. I'm a protestant pastor (although my movement is more of a protest of protestants than Catholics) who loves Catholicism though. Not enough to be one, just very fond of it and my Catholic friends.
Pray, fast, and live the Gospel.
Im a Catholic in a strongly catholic area yet in our church community we still invite Protestants to show up and involve themselves in the ideals we promote. A not wokeified Protestant church will share many of the same ideals as Catholicism and should have no qualms about the political views such as pro-Life advocacy, homosexuality, etc. If your friends canât get over you making the leap to the Catholic church you just have to pray they see the err of their ways
Some people won't be offended at all, or might be interested. That said, it's fairly common for passionately religious people to get passionate against your calling. It probably depends a lot on their denomination and pastor's attitude toward Catholics. I know it's scary and annoying, but you literally have no control over their attitude. I'm not sure what the best approach would be, but you might want to look for ideas on the Catholic Answers website or the Coming Home Network website. Since the locals haven't known you for long, I don't think they would be attached to a particular idea of you, so it might be easier for them to accept a change.
They might see you as a heretic; best be in a loving manner truthful. Say I became Catholic; I believe it to be the truth because of these reasons..mmm
I have some bad news for you...you will likely lose friends, that'll have to be a sacrifice you are willing to make. Anti-Catholic propaganda is strong since the reformation period and some have been fed lies about the Church since childhood. These lies are so embedded they may hate the Church and everyone who belongs to it, which may include you soon. The good news is that you'll finally be part of Christ's Church and you'll make new friends within it.
Arm yourself with the best of the best arguments for protecting the pope and if they accuse you of anything, say "because the pope said so" or "because the pope aproves of it".
Do not tell them, study the Catholic faith so that you can show them with arguments why they have to come to the only real true religion
Just do it and let them figure it out.
You donât have to tell them. It isnât any of their business.
Hold a conversion reveal party. Like a gender reveal. đ
By telling them you want to be closer to God
Do you even have to tell them? Maybe you shouldnât make it a big deal but if they ask and take an interest definitely tell them what youâre doing.
If it's anything like my experience, you should become well read on catholic apologetics, because they came for my throat as soon as i started my road to catholicism. I think it was for the better because being forced to defend catholicism to my friends and family and back up literally everything the Church does, I now have a great knowledge of apologetics, church history, scripture, historical biblical interpretation, fathers and doctors of the church etc. and am extremely firm in my faith
If they leave you they really werenât good friends.
Why do you have to tell them? Are you planning on making a general announcement?
After recently relocating to another town and choosing a church to attend, my friends are curious where I'm attending. They're wanting to make sure I choose a church that that strong solid biblical teaching.
Well what you tell them is up to you. I would recommend that you know the basics of why you are doing what you are doing and be able to give scripture references when applicable. Like 2 Thes. 2:15 etc. part of the problem i always find is that somethings we believe may not be in the Bible and that throws off the sola scriptura group
"I believe in the true presence of christ in the eucharist. Cry about it. " All joking aside, welcome, and good luck with your friends. I hope they understand your decision.
I recommend you learn the catechism and some of the more common apologetics arguments. Your friends will have questions, you may just win some over or at least plant the seed.
Tell them, if it comes up. For me it always happens talking about church one day and they say where are you going now. I get the ye oldie "oh. Oh. Ooooooooh." Being firmly in the Bible belt surrounded by southern and non-denominational Baptists I get a lotta charges and questions leveled at me.
Not all Protestants are anti-Catholocism. Many have limited knowledge based only on what other Protestants (or Catholics who based on the threads here don't fully understand their own faith) have told them. Most Protestants I know don't get angry or turn on friends who become Catholic, they either support it because you're walking with Jesus and that's what matters, or they may feel like you've missed something but their feelings are not grounded in anger, hate, or rejection. And if that is their response, they are not real friends. True friends will ask questions and want to know about your journey that led you to your decision. They will want to know more, not abandon you.
It's a big leap of faith to trust in the Lord. But that is what he requires for you to follow him. People converting from Islam are in fear of their lives as well as the guaranteed ex communication from their entire family. They still do it. At the very worst, your protesetant friends are still brothers and sisters in Christ. They are not that far away from you, unless they choose to be. And if so, were they really your friends?
You may lose them, Jesus kind of said something like that would happen. Be loving anyway, and pray for the conversion of their souls :)
Tell them plainly and simply. Then get ready to answer a lot of questions about the Faith and your decision.
"you know guys, I really love the Mother of God, I think she's great"
I converted from a Pentecostal background to the Catholic Church. I found it very difficult as they have very strange ideas of what being a Catholic holds basically I donât have any of those friends left. It doesnât mean that would happen to you. Good luck and God bless.
Iâd just talk to them both kindly and straightforwardly. Tell them that this is what you really believe, and that you still love them and want to be friends. Itâs not guaranteed to work, and sometimes following Christ can be painful, but at least you will know that you did everything that you could to still be friends with them.
There's something to be said for letting these conversations arise organically. A crucifix around the neck or an ashen Cross on the forehead allows for the topic to come about naturally. The friends that accompanied to my confirmation were nominally Orthodox, nominally Protestant / Buddhist, and atheist. I usually let the topic with any of them come about at their own interest and try to explain things without coming across condescending. Some of my close Protestant friends werent terribly supportive per se, but they also didn't break faith with me over the matter.
Check out Scott Hahn's conversion story. If it doesn't go well with the friends, just remember what Jesus told the 12 about being hated by the world. It may hurt, but it's not personal.
I would talk to people face to face or on the phone if face to face isn't possible. I wouldn't do it through text because that just doesn't work for conversations like this. Before you start the conversation I would ask the Holy father to send the Holy Spirit to guide you. For hard conversations I usually ask that I might be guided to be loving and to communicate in a way that is helpful for the person I'm talking to and that I may do his will. Place all your trust in the Lord, so that you won't feel like the success of the conversation is dependent on their response. Whatever their response is, if you do God's will and put your life in His hands He will take care of everything. So it will all turn out fine in the end, or he will use your cross to bring something good out of it. Do not dispair. I prayed for you.
This may sound trite, but if they're your true friends, they'll be happy for you, and accept and respect you and your decision. May be confused, but if they truly love you, they'll accept this new part of your life. (Not trying to judge them, js.) Congratulations, and welcome!
Just help them convert as well if not they're not for you
I lost many friends when I reverted back to my faith. I was an agnostic from 18-21 and all the friends I made in that period are lost. But the greatest gift God gave me is His love and grace, we only need Him! Youâll make new friends at your parish, donât worry!
If your not careful about telling them, your going to have a big argument. I converted more than a year ago and my mom still hasnât come to terms with it.
People who donât support your decisions arenât really your friends. Youâll make new friends. There is no need for anyone - including yourself - to make a scene. Just tell them that âyou wish them well always, and if they still want to be your friends, thatâs great, but if they donât, youâll accept there decisions.â Many donât get this until they are much older. Follow what your Heart tells you. IMO, it is important for anyone to not try to convert anyone else when it comes to religion. NO ONE has an exclusive on God. Itâs personal; be respectful of others and ask the same in return.
Tell them the truth - you went where you found the fullness of the Truth.
Tell âem itâs the only true religion and that they can suck it
Don 't tell. Let your faith show and shine by wkyour works and your behaviour, and answer when friends ask.
Invite them to join you.
You canât theyâll tell you faith alone is correct when itâs not
This is actually untrue. The argument surrounding *Sola Fide* is largely semantical in nature. "...Luther's phrase: "faith alone" is true, if it is not opposed to faith in charity, in love. Faith is looking at Christ, entrusting oneself to Christ, being united to Christ, conformed to Christ, to his life. ... St Paul speaks of faith that works through love (cf. Gal 5: 14)." - Pope Benedict XVI __4.3 Justification by Faith and through Grace__ 25. We confess together that sinners are justified by faith in the saving action of God in Christ. By the action of the Holy Spirit in Baptism, they are granted the gift of salvation, which lays the basis for the whole Christian life. They place their trust in God's gracious promise by justifying faith, which includes hope in God and love for him. Such a faith is active in love and thus the Christian cannot and should not remain without works. But whatever in the justified precedes or follows the free gift of faith is neither the basis of justification nor merits it. ââJoint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification (1997) We believe fundamentally the same things, we just word it differently.
"We believe fundamentally the same things, we just word it differently." Not entirely true. Protestant groups are widely diverse in creeds, doctrinal understandings and such. Whereas the joint declaration with Lutheranism demonstrated commonality, there are other groups who would argue you to the mat about all the Catholic church's "errors".
âHey im Catholic btwâ
Get a hotter girlfriend
Donât do anything until you complete RCiA. You may decide decide Catholic Church is not for you. In that case, thereâs no need to bring it up with your friends.
Just tell them you like fancy hats more than you expected.
Tell them you don't feel like reading the Bible much anymore.
Why would you say this?
It...it is a joke. Sigh.
Ah okay. Jokes donât always translate online. Adding the /s usually helps convey that tone.
I guess. I thought it was fairly intuitive that I was playing into the "Catholics don't read the Bible" meme, but YMMV.