I don’t presume to speak for the brothers and sisters who joined the Catholic family with me at Easter, but I know they wont mind me imparting how moved and privileged we all felt when we were confirmed and received our first communion.

The journey, for me, began twelve years ago, when I began to attend Church again after a long absence. I was baptised and confirmed an Anglican, (though half my family are Catholics or converts). It was always to Catholicism I would lean. The intensity of devotion both impressed and scared me. It seemed that one had to really work at being a good Catholic!

Living in Belgium for years, it was hard to find Anglican churches to worship in, so I went along each Sunday to local Catholic churches. And, like a clumsy monk, I just fell into the habit!

I found my home. I believe the sureness of the steered course, the firm hands on the rudder of faith, to be essential. Because following Christ is not simply an exercise in self-knowledge and belief. It is giving one’s life, and soul. Not to be entrusted to amateurs!

I also discovered that, for me, it had to be a case of love it or leave it – embrace all, or none of it. Unlike the “buffet – style” of some churches, where one can pick out all the bits one doesn’t like and fill up on all one’s favourite stuff, the Catholic Church serves one solid bill of fare. It may not be to everyone’s personal taste, but there is no denying its wholesomeness.

The RCIA is doing wonderful work in preparing and nourishing new Catholics, and those who sponsor new Catholics are exceptional servants of God. It was a spiritual delight to be a part of the St Brigid’s group, and a lot of fun.
I look forward to sponsoring my own new Catholic in the near future, passing on the gift so generously given to me by my sponsor, Sue. I’d like to thank everyone who helped to bring us to the Truth.

Yours In Christ

Heather
St. Brigid's, Marrickville
2006