Reasons for Converting to/from Catholicism

Wow- This was really good testimonies. My story isn't really a conversion story, because I have always been Catholic. I had to find my niche in the Church though because in the American Catholic Church there are different beliefs. I have to tell you that in the 60's untill the last few years alot of Catholic Teaching in America has gone down hill and has been teaching errors/ none of this has been approved by the Vatican. There was a big movement inside the Church that God only does good things and would never send anyone to hell and that Angels and demons are not real. I have even had a nun tell me that most of the bible is a myth. Including the story of Adam and Eve. I was really confused by this because my mother who was Catholic taught me different; so I started looking for answers. I attended and end-times seminar with the 7th Day Adventist, but they didn't jive with me either. Then I found this board and people were telling me that all I had to do was accept Jesus into my heart and then not worry about sin. (I already had a relationship with Jesus and didn't understand why I needed to have another one; and I also try to live by the teachings that Jesus taught us and trying to become more like Jesus, like feeding the poor, visiting the prisoner or sick etc.) Then I got introduced to Father Corapi's talks on EWTN(fathercorapi.com) and it was like listening to my mother and grandmother. He is very old-school and is not a liberal Catholic and even though I've never met him; I know that he tells it like it is. I consider him my personal mentor and helper to get me and everyone I know to heaven. Above all my goal in life is to be with Jesus and take as many people as I can with me. :pray


The reason I have such a problem with the idea that you just accept Jesus into your heart and then don't have to do anything else is that I feel it's not biblical. Not only did Jesus tell us to feed the poor, cloth the naked and visit the prisons and the sick. The bible says that Faith without works is dead. Now also look at what I found in Peter. It says that charity covers sin. I just have a problem with the idea (and I've met people who do this) who say they've accepted Jesus into their hearts but make no effort to not be selfish, greedy or change themselves in anyway to be a better person or to be more like Jesus; they don't have to pray or go to Church. These people believe all they have to do is accept Jesus publicly and that's it. I love the Protestant people and I know a lot of them love Jesus with their whole heart mind and soul; and alot of them do wonderful wonderful things in the communities and many will go to heaven. I just have a problem with that one teaching.

:8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 4

Dear Seashell,

Father Corapi is one of the good guys. I like to listen to him time from time..

Now, He can get a little too catholic (LOL) sometimes for me,but he speaks with such a sincerety and a sure relationship with the Lord, that I have no doubt that this is a man of God.

As it is said:

Christ has died
Christ is risen
Christ will come again

Dox

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Doxiemom

Dear Seashell,

Father Corapi is one of the good guys. I like to listen to him time from time..

Now, He can get a little too catholic (LOL) sometimes for me,but he speaks with such a sincerety and a sure relationship with the Lord, that I have no doubt that this is a man of God.

As it is said:

Christ has died
Christ is risen
Christ will come again

Dox

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I agree that Father Corapi is a staunch Catholic; but you know where he stands on things and I never feel like he's preaching some foreign religion that I don't know anything about. I really like his talks on Spiritual Warfare. He really knows how to rally the troops to prayer more and fight against evil. :pray

Goodnight and God Bless!!

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Originally Posted by seashell

Wow- This was really good testimonies. My story isn't really a conversion story, because I have always been Catholic. I had to find my niche in the Church though because in the American Catholic Church there are different beliefs. I have to tell you that in the 60's untill the last few years alot of Catholic Teaching in America has gone down hill and has been teaching errors/ none of this has been approved by the Vatican. There was a big movement inside the Church that God only does good things and would never send anyone to hell and that Angels and demons are not real. I have even had a nun tell me that most of the bible is a myth. Including the story of Adam and Eve. I was really confused by this because my mother who was Catholic taught me different; so I started looking for answers. I attended and end-times seminar with the 7th Day Adventist, but they didn't jive with me either. Then I found this board and people were telling me that all I had to do was accept Jesus into my heart and then not worry about sin. (I already had a relationship with Jesus and didn't understand why I needed to have another one; and I also try to live by the teachings that Jesus taught us and trying to become more like Jesus, like feeding the poor, visiting the prisoner or sick etc.) Then I got introduced to Father Corapi's talks on EWTN(fathercorapi.com) and it was like listening to my mother and grandmother. He is very old-school and is not a liberal Catholic and even though I've never met him; I know that he tells it like it is. I consider him my personal mentor and helper to get me and everyone I know to heaven. Above all my goal in life is to be with Jesus and take as many people as I can with me. :pray


The reason I have such a problem with the idea that you just accept Jesus into your heart and then don't have to do anything else is that I feel it's not biblical. Not only did Jesus tell us to feed the poor, cloth the naked and visit the prisons and the sick. The bible says that Faith without works is dead. Now also look at what I found in Peter. It says that charity covers sin. I just have a problem with the idea (and I've met people who do this) who say they've accepted Jesus into their hearts but make no effort to not be selfish, greedy or change themselves in anyway to be a better person or to be more like Jesus; they don't have to pray or go to Church. These people believe all they have to do is accept Jesus publicly and that's it. I love the Protestant people and I know a lot of them love Jesus with their whole heart mind and soul; and alot of them do wonderful wonderful things in the communities and many will go to heaven. I just have a problem with that one teaching.

:8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 4

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Dear Seashell,

I respectfully disagree with you. I don't think you understand the whole concept of (just accepting Jesus in your heart).
There is more to this than those simple words. Let me explain.

When I say "I don't have to do anything but ask Jesus into my heart", that is exactly what I mean. But my perspective is much different than yours. You see, when Jesus truely enters your heart, it is no longer just "You" that does the doing. It is the Holy Spirit. I don't worry about what I have to do, because I know I have someone in my heart that is leading me. I don't have the reins anymore. That's what it means by saying that YOU don't have to do anything. It means that truely, The holy Spirit is in control and He will decide your future if you allow Him to hold the reins.

How can you tell someone who merely claims they are saved from those that are truely indwelled with the Holy Spirit? By their fruit. Those that hold to the claim alone, will have dead works. Those that are really saved, will bear good fruit. Their works reveal their relationship with The Lord.

If your "works" consist of a litany of things that you do out of obligation to absolve your guilt, than whatever the sacrifice, whatever function you perform, is useless. Guilt has already been paid for. To state otherwise would diminish the power of The Cross. These Works eventually become ritual. And rituals become dead work.

True Works are things that you just KNOW the Lord is leading you to accomplish and that you're excited about. They come from the desire of the heart His/Yours with the Holy Spirit, and they are wonderful to undertake. You see the results and are comforted by it.

It's not simply about Being saved and giving your heart to The Lord. It's not about ritual, or religion. . .it's about the Truth. . .the gospel.

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Originally Posted by LisaJo

Dear Seashell,

I respectfully disagree with you. I don't think you understand the whole concept of (just accepting Jesus in your heart).
There is more to this than those simple words. Let me explain.

When I say "I don't have to do anything but ask Jesus into my heart", that is exactly what I mean. But my perspective is much different than yours. You see, when Jesus truely enters your heart, it is no longer just "You" that does the doing. It is the Holy Spirit. I don't worry about what I have to do, because I know I have someone in my heart that is leading me. I don't have the reins anymore. That's what it means by saying that YOU don't have to do anything. It means that truely, The holy Spirit is in control and He will decide your future if you allow Him to hold the reins.

How can you tell someone who merely claims they are saved from those that are truely indwelled with the Holy Spirit? By their fruit. Those that hold to the claim alone, will have dead works. Those that are really saved, will bear good fruit. Their works reveal their relationship with The Lord.

If your "works" consist of a litany of things that you do out of obligation to absolve your guilt, than whatever the sacrifice, whatever function you perform, is useless. Guilt has already been paid for. To state otherwise would diminish the power of The Cross. These Works eventually become ritual. And rituals become dead work.

True Works are things that you just KNOW the Lord is leading you to accomplish and that you're excited about. They come from the desire of the heart His/Yours with the Holy Spirit, and they are wonderful to undertake. You see the results and are comforted by it.

It's not simply about Being saved and giving your heart to The Lord. It's not about ritual, or religion. . .it's about the Truth. . .the gospel.

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I know a couple that got involved in a Baptist Church about 4 years ago. They had the public baptism and were all into it and accepted Jesus into their hearts and all of that. I don't even think it was two weeks after their Baptism that they stopped going to church, don't teach their kids about Jesus. (Father said they can find out about him for themselves when they are adults) I never hear them talk about God or reading the bible. They still get drunk just about every weekend. I just don't see where the Holy Spirit is leading them in their life. I never hear them say Grace. To be fair I don't know what is in their heart. They do however insist they are saved because they have been baptised. I know not all Protestants are like this, but a lot of them are as are many Catholics who don't think about the Lord except Holidays etc.

I do not do good deeds because I feel guilty about sins. I do good deeds or works because it makes me feel good and I want to be more like Jesus. I will never be perfect like he is, but I can try to get as close as I possibly can. I know about truth Jesus told us to feed the poor, visit the sick etc etc etc. He said if you don't do these things he will not know you. :pray Look at the verse in Matthew and look at what Jesus is saying.


25:31When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: 25:32And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 25:33And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 25:34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 25:35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 25:36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 25:37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 25:38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 25:39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 25:40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 25:41Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: 25:42For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 25:43I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 25:44Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 25:45Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 25:46And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

And why would Peter say this in 1 peter

:8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 4

Quote:

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Originally Posted by seashell

I know a couple that got involved in a Baptist Church about 4 years ago. They had the public baptism and were all into it and accepted Jesus into their hearts and all of that. I don't even think it was two weeks after their Baptism that they stopped going to church, don't teach their kids about Jesus. (Father said they can find out about him for themselves when they are adults) I never hear them talk about God or reading the bible. They still get drunk just about every weekend. I just don't see where the Holy Spirit is leading them in their life. I never hear them say Grace. To be fair I don't know what is in their heart. They do however insist they are saved because they have been baptised. I know not all Protestants are like this, but a lot of them are as are many Catholics who don't think about the Lord except Holidays etc.

I do not do good deeds because I feel guilty about sins. I do good deeds or works because it makes me feel good and I want to be more like Jesus. I will never be perfect like he is, but I can try to get as close as I possibly can. I know about truth Jesus told us to feed the poor, visit the sick etc etc etc. He said if you don't do these things he will not know you. :pray Look at the verse in Matthew and look at what Jesus is saying.


25:31When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: 25:32And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: 25:33And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 25:34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 25:35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 25:36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 25:37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 25:38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 25:39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 25:40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. 25:41Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: 25:42For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 25:43I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 25:44Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 25:45Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. 25:46And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

And why would Peter say this in 1 peter

:8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 4

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I so agree with you in that Regard Seashell. But I think that Our Lord will be pleased with those that offer charity with a happy heart because they have an urgent desire to fill the needs of these people, just like He did. I don't know about the ones who do it because they think it's The right thing to do, know what I mean.

I guess it all boils down to the heart. The couple that you met, seems an awful lot like the seed that fell, either on rocky soil, or the seed that had weeks choke it.

I really can't say, but I do know that if we all focus on Him and Keep Him first in our lives, we will produce good fruit and be lead By Him to accomplish His Will.

I also think His Ambassadors are from all denominations and affiliations. He knows the heart, not us. I feel very strong, that I have an enormous family out there in believers, my brothers and sisters in Christ and I look forward to the day when we can all be together!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by LisaJo

I so agree with you in that Regard Seashell. But I think that Our Lord will be pleased with those that offer charity with a happy heart because they have an urgent desire to fill the needs of these people, just like He did. I don't know about the ones who do it because they think it's The right thing to do, know what I mean.

I guess it all boils down to the heart. The couple that you met, seems an awful lot like the seed that fell, either on rocky soil, or the seed that had weeks choke it.

I really can't say, but I do know that if we all focus on Him and Keep Him first in our lives, we will produce good fruit and be lead By Him to accomplish His Will.

I also think His Ambassadors are from all denominations and affiliations. He knows the heart, not us. I feel very strong, that I have an enormous family out there in believers, my brothers and sisters in Christ and I look forward to the day when we can all be together!

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AMEN!:pray

CatholicConvert,

There are threads all over this board challenging pretty much all of your statements so I won't dig into all the problems with the Roman Catholic Church as there are many, many, many.

But upon review of your list, please recognize, that all those who put their confidence in Christ alone for their salvation and turn from their past sinful lives to follow Him, have the Living Christ through the indwelt Holy Spirit. And it is those who are His and it is those that make up the body of Christ and it is those alone who will see the face of Christ and be with Him into eternity. This is supported by the bible, and that is the belief of this board.

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Originally Posted by CatholicConvert

Reasons for Converting TO the Holy Catholic Church (too many to list):
1. It is the Church founded by Jesus Christ. Protestant churches were founded by Luther, Calvin, Wesley, ect.
2. One of the only Churches with apostolistic succession. Read Acts if you don't think succession is important.
3. Only Church that recognizes the leadership of St. Peter's successor as the Bishop of Rome. The Pope still has the "keys to the kingdom" my friends.
4. Only Church I know that teaches the proper teaching that birth control violates the natural law and constitutes a mortal sin.
5. Mass everyday like they have had since the beginnings of the Church.
6. The Holy Catholic Church is the less elitist church that I have ever experienced. There isn't a rich parish and a poor parish in the same area. Also, one of the basic tenets of protestantism is elitist that everyone should be able to read and interpret the Bible for theirselves. That sounds nice but what about people who can't read? We take that for granted in our country but a large percentage of the world can't read.
7. You get to have the living Christ in the Eucharist.
8. The success of the individual parish is not determined by the quality of the pastor. Unlike protestant churches, the Catholic homily is not the centerpiece of the service,the Holy Eucharist is.
9. 2000 years of tradition.
10. UNITY. Nowhere in the Bible is it permissable to have 40,000+ different churches. We are the ONE body of Christ.

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To be a part of the Body of Christ, one only has to be converted to Christ himself, not to an organization or a man-made church.

From the doctrinal belief statements of our board:

Article XIV. THE CHURCH, A UNITY OF BELIEVERS

All who are united to the risen and ascended Son of God are members of the church which is the body and bride of Jesus Christ, which began at Pentecost and is completely distinct from Israel. Its members are constituted as such regardless of membership or non membership in the organized churches of earth. By the same Spirit all believers in this age are baptized into, and thus become, one body that is Jesus Christ's, whether Jews or Gentiles, and having become members one of another, are under solemn duty to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, rising above all sectarian differences, and loving one another with a pure heart fervently (Matt.16:16-18; Acts 2:42-47; Rom. 12:5; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 1:20-23; 4:3-10; Col. 3:14-15).

Two Things

1. The Holy Catholic Church was founded by the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is not man-made.
2. I agree with you 100% that the Church requires the unity ot believers. However, the only Church that professes a unity of belief is the Holy Catholic Church. How can there be unity in Protestantism with thousands of man-made churches that profess different beliefs. I have been told that my former denomination (Presbyterian USA) is considering changing their belief on the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Also as the Nicene Creed professes, the Church is to apostolistic. Meaning have succession of the apostles.

In Peace and Love

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1. The Holy Catholic Church was founded by the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is not man-made.

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No, the Body of Believers, those transformed by the born again spirit of Jesus Christ, was founded by the Lord Jesus Christ. The Roman Catholic Church, with a Pope instead of Jesus as the head and with their own doctrine that conflicts with the Spirit inspired Bible is clearly man-made and man inspired.

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2. I agree with you 100% that the Church requires the unity ot believers. However, the only Church that professes a unity of belief is the Holy Catholic Church. How can there be unity in Protestantism with thousands of man-made churches that profess different beliefs. I have been told that my former denomination (Presbyterian USA) is considering changing their belief on the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Also as the Nicene Creed professes, the Church is to apostolistic. Meaning have succession of the apostles.

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The Catholic church is not the only church that believes in the unity of believers. The difference is that the Roman Catholic Church believes it is a "physical" unity under the authority of men. This fully underestimates the ability of the Holy Spirit to maintain unity in true believers. It also demonstrates a complete lack of faith in Jesus to build His own church for His own purposes in the way He chooses to lead it. Whether you understand the tapestry He is weaving is really unimportant - He is the architect and will prevail.

As to apostolic succession, you need to get up to speed on the discussion on this board. I won't rehash it in this thread, but there is strong evidence to contradict the Peter as Pope myth repeated by the Roman Catholic church, rooted primarily in the biblical evidence that Peter was assigned by God to be the apostle to the Jewish congregation in Jerusalem and that Paul was tasked by God to build the Gentile community in the Roman Empire. Both were obedient to their assignments.

Is their apostasy and false teaching in the protestant church? Yes. Is their apostasy and falst teaching in the Catholic church? Yes. Are their wolves disguised as sheep calling themselves Christian scattered throughout the physical church. Yes. But Jesus knows who are His. And those who build on the Truth of Jesus Christ, His Word and the Holy Spirit will not be deceived. We have the promise of God on this. However the promise does not say if we build our foundation on the doctrine of the RCC that we will not be deceived. So you need to be extremely careful where you place your trust.

There have been warnings about apostasy in the church since the epistles were written.....but it is not isolated to a physical denomination or physical church. Men are in all of them, men are fallible, men will deceive. Christ alone is the Truth.

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Originally Posted by pegmo

There have been warnings about apostasy in the church since the epistles were written.....but it is not isolated to a physical denomination or physical church. Men are in all of them, men are fallible, men will deceive. Christ alone is the Truth.

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:thumb I believe that to avoid being led into error we must be "Bereans" and check the teachings of our leaders against biblical truths. Every denomination is composed of fallible men and women.

I'd be sad to see this thread degenerate into yet another denominational dispute; we've been doing too well avoiding that so far!!!

I do think you've pointed out the issue where the disputes get started, Pegmo. If any of us blindly and without question follow a leader, teacher, or denomination, it makes us vulnerable to false teaching and deception.

Good post! :hat

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Originally Posted by CatholicConvert

Reasons for Converting TO the Holy Catholic Church (too many to list):
1. It is the Church founded by Jesus Christ. Protestant churches were founded by Luther, Calvin, Wesley, ect.
2. One of the only Churches with apostolistic succession. Read Acts if you don't think succession is important.
3. Only Church that recognizes the leadership of St. Peter's successor as the Bishop of Rome. The Pope still has the "keys to the kingdom" my friends.
4. Only Church I know that teaches the proper teaching that birth control violates the natural law and constitutes a mortal sin.
5. Mass everyday like they have had since the beginnings of the Church.
6. The Holy Catholic Church is the less elitist church that I have ever experienced. There isn't a rich parish and a poor parish in the same area. Also, one of the basic tenets of protestantism is elitist that everyone should be able to read and interpret the Bible for theirselves. That sounds nice but what about people who can't read? We take that for granted in our country but a large percentage of the world can't read.
7. You get to have the living Christ in the Eucharist.
8. The success of the individual parish is not determined by the quality of the pastor. Unlike protestant churches, the Catholic homily is not the centerpiece of the service,the Holy Eucharist is.
9. 2000 years of tradition.
10. UNITY. Nowhere in the Bible is it permissable to have 40,000+ different churches. We are the ONE body of Christ.

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:wave Hello, Catholic Convert. It's interesting to me to hear from someone "from the opposite viewpoint." I'm trying to stick to the guidelines in my original post, to avoid derailing the thread over areas where we obviously disagree.

There were apparently compelling reasons for you leaving your former denomination and to seek another church home. This is what I am trying to focus the discussion on...In your case, if I'm not reading too much into your list above, "elitism" and "disunity" were areas of concern for you. Were there any others? Would you be willing to share some more concerning the motivating factors behind your leaving your former denomination? Did you consider any other protestant denominations? Any nondenominational congregations? Was a particular person or persons influential in your choice to join the Catholic church?

I'm hopeful that by trying to focus our discussions around "heart" issues...why we feel closer to God within a certain fellowship of believers as opposed to another...we will gain insight into each other's journey towards spiritual maturity and greater likeness to Christ.

Blessings, Abigail

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Originally Posted by pegmo

Primary Reason I left the Catholic Church:

I had a dramatic conversion experience where I was led by the Holy Spirit to:
-come before Jesus
-understand how sinful and desperate my spiritual condition really was
-understand that Christ's work on the cross was to pay my personal debt to God
-that I needed to have complete faith that it was only by HIS blood shed on the cross that would allow me to come into the presence of God
-I was overcome with the real and true knowledge that God existed
-I was overcome with grief at the deepest level for my past sin and unbelief
-I understood for the first time the significance of, the truth of, and the personal nature of the sacrifice of Jesus for me
-I understood for the first time that Jesus was alive
-I became super sensitive to my own sin and sin around me - I could not even watch the tv anymore
-Anger toward my parents that I had held all my life, disappeared
-Jealousy toward my siblings disappeared
-My priorities changed - personal ambition and work lost its lure
-I had a hunger for the bible that was insatiable, for the first time in my life
-I understood both the literal and spiritual message of the bible for the first time
-I knew the bible was true
-I lost any fear of death
-I had a deep desire to pray for others
-I knew I had to be in a bible based church.

This happened with no one witnessing to me. I did not know any born-again Christians. I was born into an RC family, educated K-graduate school in Catholic schools. Married into another RC family. Raised my children Catholic.

However I came to a point where I knew I was spiritually starved and desperate. I knew I had made mostly selfish choices in my life and they had led to a place I didn't like. This is what led me to seek God's help.

None of my Catholic family or friends understood or could explain the experience. I had received ALL of the sacraments of the Catholic Church that were available to me. As had my family and friends. None of them knew Jesus or the transforming power of the Holy Spirit that I was in the midst of experiencing. The bible clearly explained what was happening. My life was turned upside down. I thought about Jesus 24x7. I would wake up in the middle of the night with scriptural answers to questions I had, even though I hadn't even read those portions of the bible yet. By leaning on Jesus and trusting His ability to lead my life and provide for me in EVERY detail, I was able to stop drinking alcohol for the first time in 30 years. I lean on Him.

There is nothing offered to or available to me in the Catholic Church that led me to assured salvation in Jesus Christ. It was only by coming directly to Jesus that I was brought into the light of Jesus and the Father.

Praise His Holy Name. I pray the veil is lifted from every single Roman Catholic I know who feels they need religion or the RCC to attain salvation. They only need humble themselves, be broken over their sin, seek to know Jesus, and trust in His shed blood alone. That's it. They only need Jesus and He will lead them to the rest.

That is why I left. And I am confident through the Holy Spirit and confirmed through His word that it was His mercy that showed me the way....His one and only way.

Pegmo

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Beautiful words!

Your testimony touched my heart and brought tear to my eyes. What a beautiful witness of the work of the Holy Spirit to one who was desperately seeking the Truth! I have heard similar testimonies from former Catholics, and every one said that as soon as they had a heart knowledge of what Jesus Christ has done for us and experienced salvation, they got out of the Catholic church as fast as they could. They now carry a heavy burden for those family members who are still entrapped there, who still believe that the sacraments of the church and confession to the priest will save them.

I thought about telling my story of leaving one church for another, but it would probably get me "fried", so I'll not go into it. But, keep in mind that if we go to God to find truth, He will be faithful to reveal to us the truth. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lack wisdom, let his ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

God is so faithful - all we have to do is ask from a pure heart, and He will guide and direct us and reaveal the truth to us. And He never tires of having us come to Him for wisdom. What we have to do is let go of the traditions of man and follow the truth of God.

Oh Graceforme, it makes me cry when I read it too! And everytime I tell it. And everytime I think about it.

And when I just reread what I posted about Jesus that you copied, I realized it was inspired by the Holy Spirit, I am not that clear and articulate on my own! Praise, Praise His Holy Name.

Pegmo :)

Abigail, I would love to give my whole conversion story right here but I don't want to bore people. So I am going to try to answer the questions you brought up.

Why I left the Presbyterian (USA) denomination?
My grandma and grandpa left our church that I was brought up in and my mother stopped attending services soon after when I was about 17 (I am 21 now). So I pretty much stopped going to church. When I enrolled at Duquesne University, I never really sought out a presbyterian church in Pittsburgh. So I pretty much went to church once every month or so. Around age 18 or 19 my Grandma started taking classes a Bible institute close to our home. She would discuss things she was learning and a lot of things about Calvinism. I started to study Calvinism and the more I studied, the more I felt it was illogical and wrong. Also, I looked on the website of the Presbyterian (USA) Church and it basically said (and still does) that it supports a woman's right to have an abortion. This was the last straw for me. I knew I was leaving the church.

Did I consider any other protestant or non-denominational churches?
I considered the Presbyterian Church in America, the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, and the Lutheran Church. I am sort of a resered person and never tried them out.

Influential person to my conversion to the Catholic Church
I want to start this section off by saying that I was never a Catholic-hater or anything like that. I always grew up more-or-less considering them equal to all of the Protestant denominations. My grandma was and still is a militant anti-Catholic who told me many times that she doesn't believe Catholics are saved. I think my Dad being Catholic, even though he stopped going to mass, restriced her from indoctrinating me. My sophomore year at Duquesne University, I needed to add a class to my schedule in the last 2 weeks of summer and saw a class on The New Testament that would fit perfectly around my work schedule. It was taught by one of the Spiritan (a religious congregation like the Franciscans and Jesuits) priest. This old priest from Ireland had such a profound effect on me that I started to really study the teachings of the Catholic Church. The reason he had this effect on me was because he challenged us in class to live a life like Jesus. Much of the first part of the class was focused on the Beatitudes and the Lords Prayer and really studying them opened up a whole new world to me. I also appreciated that he did not inquire into what our religious affiliation was (unless we told him) and focused 100% on the New Testament.

I am actually not a confirmed member of the Catholic Church yet. I am currently doing RCIA and will be a confirmed member at Easter Vigil mass.

Thanks for reading this.

In Peace and Love

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by pegmo

Oh Graceforme, it makes me cry when I read it too! And everytime I tell it. And everytime I think about it.

And when I just reread what I posted about Jesus that you copied, I realized it was inspired by the Holy Spirit, I am not that clear and articulate on my own! Praise, Praise His Holy Name.

Pegmo :)

---

You have inspired many people with your post. It is obvious that you were being led by the Holy Spirit. What a wonderful blessing that God gives us such a leader and guider to help us along in this world and show us the way.

Keep looking up. And seeking truth.

Resting in peace (but more alive than ever)
GFM

Just a quick note. 1 Peter 4:8 was cited:

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

This verse is not a stand-alone as the RCC interprets it. It must be taken in the context of the entire chapter. A little bit of study of the Greek here (as can be found on sites such as Blueletterbible.com) reveals a few things:

1. Charity means love.
2. Notice the qualifier 'among yourselves'. This clearly sets the context for this verse, specifically, and the entire chapter. We are talking solely about fellow believers here.
3. Where English uses 'the' in "the multitude of sins" in the Greek it is really 'a' ('a multitude of sins'). So immediately we see a more generalized concept taking shape "a multitude of sins", instead of the more rigid "the multitude of sins", indicating them all). Peter was clearly making a point here, like saying "an ounce of love cures a pound of pain", instead of "the ounce of love cures the pound of pain". The RCC takes this verse as proof that there are apparently other ways to have sin forgiven in place of Christ and His Sacrifice alone. This is obviously the wrong interpretation. Peter is extolling the brethren to love one another more, to show more charity. This verse, and this entire chapter, have nothing to do with God forgiving one's sins. That application is completely out of context.
4. The context of Chapter 4 is loving your brothers and sisters in Christ.
5. The 'multitude of sins' here in verse 8 is not sins against God, but sins (or wrongs) against one another. If you love one another, you are able to easily overlook slights and other wrongs (sins) done against you by fellow believers. If you deal with one another in charity, that approach covers a 'multitude of sins' among the brethren. That is, it makes it easier to get along. It promotes harmony and goodwill among your brothers and sisters in the Faith.

Hope that helps clear that up and also shows that charity in the sense that it was being applied previously covers no man's sins against God and, like all of our good works, are filthy rags in the sight of a Holy God.

The RCC has co-opted much of Scripture and applied the moniker of "tradition" to it, solely for their own claim to sole divine succession. The people are the Church, not the physical organization.

God bless.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Doxiemom

I am not catholic but find too much chaos in the protestant world. look how much disagrement there is here on this board by so many truely God fearing and God loving people.

For me, I want the quiet worship and the communion centered worship. I am who I am and will offer no apology any more. Nor will I worry about any church rules or threats of hell by catholic insiders or outsiders.

I am His child and I am a Christian.

Thank you for letting me tell my story.

---

I am close to this as well - I am still a Catholic but I don't know where else to go. The Protestant denominations seem to have their share of problems. I love the people I worship with and offer no apologies as well. But most of the time I feel like a walking Civil War. I am not sure I should stay but don't know where to go. Why don't the answers seem more clear in these situations.

P.s. Loretta - I have always enjoyed your insight into the Catholic mind and the hold the Church has over its people. Thanks!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SpeedRacer

I am close to this as well - I am still a Catholic but I don't know where else to go. The Protestant denominations seem to have their share of problems. I love the people I worship with and offer no apologies as well. But most of the time I feel like a walking Civil War. I am not sure I should stay but don't know where to go. Why don't the answers seem more clear in these situations.

P.s. Loretta - I have always enjoyed your insight into the Catholic mind and the hold the Church has over its people. Thanks!

---

Hi Speedracer, I just wanted to make a suggestion about a church possibility. The Calvary Chapels are usually very straight forward, strictly word based, and although they fit into Protestant category of course, they don't really call themselves by any sect of Protestantism. Their only concern is preaching the Word, verse by verse, chapter by chapter. There's no signing up, they won't call you unless you make friends with somebody & give your number. I too got really sick of the Protestant pinball machine, bounce bounce ping ping, who's opinion will I be afflicted by today? This is the most straighforward system of "church" I've found. None are perfect though. In any case, I'll pray God sends you to the right place for you.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by goinghome

Hi Speedracer, I just wanted to make a suggestion about a church possibility. The Calvary Chapels are usually very straight forward, strictly word based, and although they fit into Protestant category of course, they don't really call themselves by any sect of Protestantism. Their only concern is preaching the Word, verse by verse, chapter by chapter. There's no signing up, they won't call you unless you make friends with somebody & give your number. I too got really sick of the Protestant pinball machine, bounce bounce ping ping, who's opinion will I be afflicted by today? This is the most straighforward system of "church" I've found. None are perfect though. In any case, I'll pray God sends you to the right place for you.

---

Thanks for your prayers and suggestion

Quote:

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Originally Posted by CatholicConvert

Two Things

1. The Holy Catholic Church was founded by the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is not man-made.

In Peace and Love

---

:ohno

Ok I'm not as knowledgable as most and rather new, I can say as of now I have no church, Why? well I can't support any church that, allow abortion, allows same sae union for a start.
I also believe that communion is very important as it is a symbol for Christs preparring to leave this earth.
So where does that leave me? I am a batized Anglican but recent allowances in what I have writen above are turning my head, Catholacism places so much in the VM that she is almost god like and such a rich church it is!
Othrodox seems to be the right direction but wich one?
I have attended many prodestant, or evangelical and find them more into entertaining then following any scripture.

Now this is my opinion and I hope no one is offended, I came to the board to learn many things, not just the Rapture.

Also sorry if this jumps around a bit and is not the greatest puncuation I am disabled so I find it hard to write and use grammer, as well spellcheck would not work.
Darrell:scripture

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by αρμαγεδδων

Ok I'm not as knowledgable as most and rather new, I can say as of now I have no church, Why? well I can't support any church that, allow abortion, allows same sae union for a start.
I also believe that communion is very important as it is a symbol for Christs preparring to leave this earth.
So where does that leave me? I am a batized Anglican but recent allowances in what I have writen above are turning my head, Catholacism places so much in the VM that she is almost god like and such a rich church it is!
Othrodox seems to be the right direction but wich one?
I have attended many prodestant, or evangelical and find them more into entertaining then following any scripture.

Now this is my opinion and I hope no one is offended, I came to the board to learn many things, not just the Rapture.

Also sorry if this jumps around a bit and is not the greatest puncuation I am disabled so I find it hard to write and use grammer, as well spellcheck would not work.
Darrell:scripture

---

You might check to see if there is a Calvary Chapel in your area. There are many of them and most of them are very biblically sound and could care less about the entertainment factor. I have to warn that a few here and there have gone astray in the past and been cut off from the Calvary Chapel group. So be sure they are on the list of the CC website.

http://www.calvarychapel.com/?show=Churches

You can also listen to many of them online to test them out first.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by goinghome

You might check to see if there is a Calvary Chapel in your area. There are many of them and most of them are very biblically sound and could care less about the entertainment factor. I have to warn that a few here and there have gone astray in the past and been cut off from the Calvary Chapel group. So be sure they are on the list of the CC website.

http://www.calvarychapel.com/?show=Churches

You can also listen to many of them online to test them out first.

---

For the most part Calvary chapels are bibically sound. I attended one recently in my area and it was an expository Bible service. Thats good because I need to learn all I can about the Bible.
Also, Roger Oakland recommends Calvary Chapel. Apparently he has spoken at a number of them across the country and he told me that "most are good and not apostolic"

Good luck to you. :)

I also vouch for them!!! :yeah

[QUOTE=Abigail;151354]I've experienced something
IMHO, the whole issue of "church discipline" gets sidestepped in many churches, Catholic and protestant alike...because of what? Apathy? Fear of bad press affecting donations/membership numbers? Fear of appearing "judgmental"?:idunno


I believe it is a "spirit of religiousity" thats at work there. Praying first for an unsaved catholic to be free from this spirit is most likely a good first step to witnessing to them. For some reason , God seems to put me with catholics!!!:idunno,,,, and I find witnessing to them to be extremely difficult ! They are SO indoctrinated, its not even funny. I find most of them would rather have their "religion" than the truth, than Jesus. And the whole Mary worship thing is sickening (its really idoltry). I do believe that Roman Catholism is a front runner in the one world religion that is coming upon us, and the pope, sorry to say, is human , and therefore fallible. (and the pope is NOT "Jesus on earth" ) Their entire teachings are biblically wrong but yet sooooo many are deceived!!! unreal. But God is continually leading people OUT OF this religion into a relationship with HIM. Praise God. In the meantime, i try to be as gentle (as possible) in talking to catholics and helping them to come to Christ, the ONE TRUE GOD.

[quote=Debbie M.;250100]

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Abigail

I've experienced something
IMHO, the whole issue of "church discipline" gets sidestepped in many churches, Catholic and protestant alike...because of what? Apathy? Fear of bad press affecting donations/membership numbers? Fear of appearing "judgmental"?:idunno


I believe it is a "spirit of religiousity" thats at work there. Praying first for an unsaved catholic to be free from this spirit is most likely a good first step to witnessing to them. For some reason , God seems to put me with catholics!!!:idunno,,,, and I find witnessing to them to be extremely difficult ! They are SO indoctrinated, its not even funny. I find most of them would rather have their "religion" than the truth, than Jesus. And the whole Mary worship thing is sickening (its really idoltry). I do believe that Roman Catholism is a front runner in the one world religion that is coming upon us, and the pope, sorry to say, is human , and therefore fallible. (and the pope is NOT "Jesus on earth" ) Their entire teachings are biblically wrong but yet sooooo many are deceived!!! unreal. But God is continually leading people OUT OF this religion into a relationship with HIM. Praise God. In the meantime, i try to be as gentle (as possible) in talking to catholics and helping them to come to Christ, the ONE TRUE GOD.

---

Yes; that's the same thing I've experienced; the "religiousity" you speak of is so different from a true faith in Jesus Christ. The religious education I experienced in the RCC made it difficult to even discern the difference in the two. We were taught from a very early age that the RCC was the one "true" church; I remember any questions we had that challenged that in any way were met with a harsh response.

I know that many Catholics who have posted on this board claim that this was not the case for them, but unfortunately it was in my experience. I don't know how different it may have been for me, having been also in a predominately Catholic geographic area. I would assume that Catholic claims of exclusivity would be harder to maintain in an area where Catholics are a minority, but that is just a guess. Family dynamics also play a big role as well...

The home bible study I attended that really got me started reading scripture for myself was a simple gathering where we took turns reading scripture aloud. The leader was really more of a facilitator, and largely confined himself to expanding on the scripture we were reading by noting parallels in the Old Testament that related to the New Testament verses we were studying, for example.

Our bible study group had members from a number of denominations, too. We had a starting premise of simply reading scripture together, and avoided any discussion of denominational teachings that a particular scripture may have brought to mind. I think that this decision was wise; it avoided arguments and off-topic discussions...and, most importantly, kept us reading!!

Looking back, I do think that the group made a real effort to AVOID reading the really "hot button" scriptures that would have challenged Catholic teachings. Instead, we were simply guided and encouraged in becoming comfortable in reading the Bible for ourselves. The Holy Spirit, of course, did the rest, for those who were searching, like myself.

I do know what you are saying by "indoctrination," though. It seems that I was always protected by the Holy Spirit from being unduly influenced by Catholic doctrine that was not in alignment with scripture. I can't explain it in any other way. I suppose that's why I was never truly comfortable in the RCC.

I do think that you are also right in GENTLY "planting seeds" of truth with the Catholics you meet. Sometimes I tend to forget that sometimes we are to plant the seeds, and another will come along to water them; know what I mean??

For what it's worth, if the Catholics you are meeting do not believe in the inerrancy of scripture as a starting point, evangelizing them will be so much more difficult. I remember the friend who invited me to the bible study asked whether I believed that the Bible was the word of God...I said yes; somehow I knew that despite never having read it!! However, I do believe that most Catholics will agree that the Bible is the Word of God, so I still think that encouraging, facilitating, helping them to become comfortable in reading scripture for themselves is the best way...the Word will not return void, after all. You're simply lighting the way...:candle

[QUOTE=Debbie M.;250100]

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Abigail

I've experienced something
IMHO, the whole issue of "church discipline" gets sidestepped in many churches, Catholic and protestant alike...because of what? Apathy? Fear of bad press affecting donations/membership numbers? Fear of appearing "judgmental"?:idunno


I believe it is a "spirit of religiousity" thats at work there. Praying first for an unsaved catholic to be free from this spirit is most likely a good first step to witnessing to them. For some reason , God seems to put me with catholics!!!:idunno,,,, and I find witnessing to them to be extremely difficult ! They are SO indoctrinated, its not even funny. I find most of them would rather have their "religion" than the truth, than Jesus. And the whole Mary worship thing is sickening (its really idoltry). I do believe that Roman Catholism is a front runner in the one world religion that is coming upon us, and the pope, sorry to say, is human , and therefore fallible. (and the pope is NOT "Jesus on earth" ) Their entire teachings are biblically wrong but yet sooooo many are deceived!!! unreal. But God is continually leading people OUT OF this religion into a relationship with HIM. Praise God. In the meantime, i try to be as gentle (as possible) in talking to catholics and helping them to come to Christ, the ONE TRUE GOD.

---

As a former RC I can vouch for what you are saying Debbie. My heart was very hardened and it took a lot of time to reverse that. I think that it is pride that is the major problem. Catholics for the most part prefer to be called Catholics rather then Christians. :scratch All the RCC add-ons just mix them up and keep them from the truth.

ABIGAIL I WAS VERY MUCH JUST LIKE U. I WENT TO CATHOLIC SCHOOL FROM K-JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL.
I CAN SAY THAT I REALLY DID GET A GOOD EDUCATION. BECAUSE I AM SLOW IN MATH AND SOMETIMES I HAVE PROBLEMS WITH DIRECTIONS I WAS BETTER OFF IT SOME OF THE SLOWER CLASSES IN PUBLIC SCHOOL. THAT WAS IN THE DAY WHEN THEY STILL SAID PRAY IN PUBLIC SCHOO.. I DID NOT KNOW WHAT I WANTED TO DO UNTILL THE SIX GRADE WE I DECIDED TO BECOME A NUN. I GRADUATED ONE DAY FROM HIGH SCHOOL AND THE NEXT DAY I ENTERED THE CONVENANT. THE NUNS WERE NICE TO ME BUT THEY HAD TO GET ME TO LEAVE BECAUSE OF MEDICAL PROBLEMS. I WAS REALLY UPSET UNTIL I WENT TO A REHAB CENTER FOR THE BLIND. I CAN SEE WITH ONE EYE BUT I AM LEGALLY BLIND. HANCE THE BIG LETTERS. THE NUNS TOLD MY MOM THAT IT WAS TO DIFFICULT FOR ME FROM THE ASPECT OF BEING STRONG ENOUGH TO DO THE WORK. AT THAT TIME I COULD WALK. AT THE BLIND SCHOOL THEY FIGURED OUT I HAD MILD CEREBRAL PALSEY. I MOVED FROM MY HOME TOWN TO SAN ANTONIO TEXAS. I LOVE IT. AS I GOT OLDER I GOT A LITTLE BIT WORSE WHERE I NEEDER A PUMP AND A PACEMAKER. I HAVE BEEN IN A WHEELCHAIR FOR A LONG TIME. WHEN I CAME TO S.A. I WAS CATHOLIC. I SPEMT 10 YEARS IN DIFFERNT NURSING HOMES. I HAD A GOOD FRIEND THAT WENT TO OAK HILLS CHURCH WHICH IS NOW CALLED OAK HILLS. I LOVED LEARNING ABOUT THE BIBLE AND EVERYTHING WAS SO DIFFERNT AND PEOPLE DID NOT RUN OUT OF THE CHURCH AS SOON AS THEY COULD. IN FACT YOU COULD NOT GET THEM TO LEAVE. I HAVE BEEN GOING THERE SINCE 1984 AND I GOT SAVED AT A CARMEN CONCERT. I HAVE ALSO BEEN IMERSED IN BAPTISM. MANY OF MY FRIENDS WERE ALSO CATHOLIC AT ONE TIME BUT NOW GO TO OTHER CHURCHES. I ALWAYS TRY TO GET ALL MY ATTENDANCE TO ACCEPT CHRIST. I AM SO HAPPY THAT MY SALVATION IS NOT CONTIGENT UPON GOOD WORKS BUT ON GRACE. I KNOW THAT NO CHURCH IS PERFECT BECAUSE WE ARE IMPERFECT PEOPLE HOWEVER THE MOST INPORTANT THING IS A TRUE RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS CHRIST. LEARNING, LIVING, AND SPREADING HIS HOLY WORD.

THAT IS MY SHORT STORY.
I WAS TIRED OF A DEAD FAITH THAT PRAYED TO OTHERS WHO ARE NOT TO BE PRAYED TO. I DON'T SAY THAT THERE ARE MANY CATHOLICS THAT WILL BE SAVED. AFTER ALL IT DEPENDS ON WHAT YOUR IMPHASES IS. YOU CAN'T PRAY AND ASK FOR FORGIVENESS FROM SOMEONE WHO IS ALSO A SINNER JUST LIKE ME. FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD, BUT GOOD WORKS WILL NOT SAVE U JUST LIKE MY POEM SAYS.

Trust in Him
by: Donna Marie Hardigree
If You want to see Him your good works will not save you.
The little secrets that you hope that others will not find.
But Jesus knows your every step and does not lead You blind.
Sometimes it is that free will that sometimes makes it hard.
This world is filled with sadness this world is filled with woe.
But if you trust in Jesus He will show you where to go.
I know my words or simple but I know that they or true.
If you want to know my Jesus come and give your heart too.
You still will know sadness and the many trials within
But if you trust in Jesus He will help you carry on.

Copyright ©2007 Donna Marie Hardigree




http://www.poetry.com/voteforme/poem...p?PID=12155367

Quote:

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Originally Posted by kc5ift458

ABIGAIL




http://www.poetry.com/voteforme/poem...p?PID=12155367

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Loved the poem; thanks for sharing that, and your testimony too. I really feel the same way about finally learning more about scripture; being here on this board will help you a lot in that department too; it sure has for me.

I've had the same experience as you have with respect to people being much more engaged in the services and not wanting to leave...although I'm sure that issue has a lot to do with the individual priest or pastor. It's great that you've found such a good place to fellowship and worship, too...these days that's becoming harder to find!

Is it easier for you if we use a bigger font when replying to your posts like I've done here, or do you have settings or a program on your end that does that already? There are Soooo many wonderful threads to read and so many really great people to chat with that we don't want to have you struggle needlessly with small fonts, or constantly having to increase the size of everything...this is a size "6" font...let me know if it's a comfortable size for you, OK?

Abigail it is VERY thoughtful of you to use the bigger sized font for the lady. I would just tell her, if she doesn't know this already, that you can change the text size on your internet toolbar. It should be an option under page, tools, or view depending on what browser you are using.

No more caps or font sizes larger than 3

Buzz and Go in Peace:

I've tried increasing view size on my own browser (IE) and find that it does not always increase the size of the text...it's really odd in this case, because when I go to "view" and "text size" and "largest" it just increased the size of my reply, originally posted in Font size 6, but your posts remain the same size no matter if I choose "smallest" or "largest." :idunno In other words, some of the posts are enlarged, and others are not, all in the same thread...how's that possible? I'm just concerned that she be able to join in without having to make adjustments on every thread. Maybe I'm doing something wrong????

I have some visual problems myself, that are not fully fixed by corrective lenses, and sometimes have problems if people use tiny fonts, since I've found that increasing the size on my browser does NOT always magnify it. I've also tried using the magnifier that Windows has, and it's quite cumbersome to use, so that's why I inquired as to what modifications she had on her computer, and whether it would be helpful to increase the font sizes in our replies...didn't mean it as "shouting..."

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Abigail

Buzz and Go in Peace:

I've tried increasing view size on my own browser (IE) and find that it does not always increase the size of the text...it's really odd in this case, because when I go to "view" and "text size" and "largest" it just increased the size of my reply, originally posted in Font size 6, but your posts remain the same size no matter if I choose "smallest" or "largest." :idunno In other words, some of the posts are enlarged, and others are not, all in the same thread...how's that possible? I'm just concerned that she be able to join in without having to make adjustments on every thread. Maybe I'm doing something wrong????

I have some visual problems myself, that are not fully fixed by corrective lenses, and sometimes have problems if people use tiny fonts, since I've found that increasing the size on my browser does NOT always magnify it. I've also tried using the magnifier that Windows has, and it's quite cumbersome to use, so that's why I inquired as to what modifications she had on her computer, and whether it would be helpful to increase the font sizes in our replies...didn't mean it as "shouting..."

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I just tried it and experienced the same issue as you. Must be the script of this board. I obviously don't care what size font you use but I don't make the rules for the board. I understand why Buzz would not want larger font used as it would cause a visual disruption. I just thought I could help but it looks like I was wrong.

Buzz?? Any thoughts on why we're having problems englarging the text of a complete thread with our own browsers? I've experienced this same issue with lots of other websites, come to think of it...it's just never been enough of a problem before to track down the reason why this is...but I'd really hate for a person's poor vision to make it frustrating to follow along with our discussions...you know, not being able to read parts of it.

Do you know any members here that may be able to educate us as to the cause of this?

OK, working on FireFox here and not having any problems enlarging fonts on this website. Firefox has a shortcut too, it's CTRL and + together. It seems to make the photos bigger too. I have to assume the issue may be in IE if you are all using IE and experience the same problem. As a former designer I know MS is very picky in wanting to "own" the Internet and they do things that don't jibe with the standards people.

I have a lot of trouble reading some of my regular websites. Eyes always bad but getting harder to focus on smaller print as I age. I suggest downloading and installing FireFox at mozilla.org and using it. It is also more secure but it will certainly make enlarging print easier and more reliable.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Pleye

OK, working on FireFox here and not having any problems enlarging fonts on this website. Firefox has a shortcut too, it's CTRL and + together. It seems to make the photos bigger too. I have to assume the issue may be in IE if you are all using IE and experience the same problem. As a former designer I know MS is very picky in wanting to "own" the Internet and they do things that don't jibe with the standards people.

I have a lot of trouble reading some of my regular websites. Eyes always bad but getting harder to focus on smaller print as I age. I suggest downloading and installing FireFox at mozilla.org and using it. It is also more secure but it will certainly make enlarging print easier and more reliable.

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I use Firefox too, don't care for IE

Many of my family are of the Catholic faith and as a kid, went to caticism (sp) in my 6th & 7th grade years, but remember very well, all the kids lined up to go into confession and many of the kids making up false stories to tell the priest for they dare not tell him the truth, Ummm, isn't this wrong, but for me was being alter boy once and we had to kiss the priest's ring, I felt in my heart then, that this was so wrong.
My one uncle and his wife were raised staunch Catholics for almost 50yrs of their lives, ( they are near 80 now ) anyways, they were led to a nondenominational bible study once and it changed their lives, they have broken away from the Catholic church, but now they are having a time with their children as of course they were raised all their lives as Catholics, but they are trying to help them see the light.
And one more quick story, I have a sister in Christ who was raised Lutheren and converted to the Catholic faith, because of her husband, who believes in the Catholic faith as the only true faith, but she tells me she's not really Catholic, waiting and hopeing her dear husband see the light soon. There my 2 cents worth, ha...
Sadly though, I heard many stories of people being hurt by the catholic faith in one way or another, I pray the can find true healing from our dear Heavenly Father...

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by kc5ift458

Trust in Him
by: Donna Marie Hardigree
If You want to see Him your good works will not save you.
The little secrets that you hope that others will not find.
But Jesus knows your every step and does not lead You blind.
Sometimes it is that free will that sometimes makes it hard.
This world is filled with sadness this world is filled with woe.
But if you trust in Jesus He will show you where to go.
I know my words or simple but I know that they or true.
If you want to know my Jesus come and give your heart too.
You still will know sadness and the many trials within
But if you trust in Jesus He will help you carry on.

Copyright ©2007 Donna Marie Hardigree




http://www.poetry.com/voteforme/poem...p?PID=12155367

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That's very nice. :hug :yeah