Lapsed Catholic-How to Return-With Child?

[GraceAmazed]

Decades ago now, I walked away from Catholicism.

I always in a little way felt spiritual though and was never an atheist. Occasionally attending other Christian services eg Quakers, Church of England...

I thought a Christian education was important, so DD she knew of God through school though I would not allow baptism much to my Dads distress.

After much contemplation I know I will reconnect with the religion my parents brought me into.

My child who is now 10 has never attended Church or been baptised, though has had a limited Christian education through her CoE school.

How to proceed?

[LunaLambBhuna]

I think you could just try out a few local churches. See which one feels like a good fit and then speak to the priest.

I'm doing the RCIA course at the moment and my boys will be baptised when I am confirmed.

Any church will welcome you back with open arms.

Good luck.

[BratFarrarsPony]

the priest will think you want to get her into a Catholic Secondary School.

[Cherryskypie]

If you want to return to the church that's fine but how does your DD feel about religion? Does she believe in a god?

[ASISAYNOTASIDO]

Just wander back in - never heard of a church who didn't welcome back lapsed members.

[TomHaverford]

You could also simply start by going to your local catholic parish and asking to meet with the priest and just talking to him about what's gone on in your life that's bought you back to this point, and explaining what you want for your daughter and what it is you want from the Church. It might also help you to be able to give your daughter more clear answers when she asks the inevitable questions that she will ask!

[CaulkheadupNorthStill]

Just go back. It'll be okay.

You could also look for things like Messy Church or events that are a bit different as that might help.

[DitheringSJ]

I agree just go back, nothing should stop you if it's your heart's desire to return. I would say though, don't take communion and have a chat with the priest afterwards to explain your situation. There will be plenty of others either going up for a blessing (arms crossed) or just sitting in the pew. The priest will have more respect for you by showing reverence for the Eucharist and should be welcoming you back.

He may just say welcome back and that'll be it for you or he may question your reasons for doing so. If you are planning to introduce your DD to Catholicism she will need to go through being baptised and do first reconciliation and first communion. Attending Mass every Sunday will be the way forward.

[cheekyfunkymonkey]

Just go one way Sunday. That's the great thing about the catholic church, no questions, no need for explanations, no-one in your business.