Dear Catholic Exchange:
I am 57 years old. I was baptized Roman Catholic as an infant, catechized though out grade school and most of high school, confirmed at puberty and raised by very devout parents. Despite this I found my faith faltering during early childhood and through my own questioning and leadings became a closet atheist by age 11, just prior to confirmation. I took the sacraments and attended Mass primarily out of respect for my parents. Through death and illness I gave up the religion out of disbelief. My question is where would I stand in relation to the Church, reconciliation and what is now called RCIA? What practical steps need I take at this point to make a return?
Thank you again,
M. McCurry
Dear Mrs. McCurry,
Thank you for contacting Catholics United for the Faith with your question regarding how to return to the Catholic faith.
Based on what you have said in your letter, returning to the Church is simply making a thorough examination of conscience and attending sacramental confession. Further religious instruction would be highly recommended but not necessary since you have already received the initiation sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and Holy Communion.
United in the Faith,
Pete Brown
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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