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Again you are correct, Annie.

I was confirmed as a Catholic two years ago this Easter. I was asked a few weeks ago to speak with the current RCIA class at my church about coming to the church as an adult and the process and it really got my doing some intense introspection. I had attended church as a kid and up through college (I was a Lutheran) but had just drifted away from it after graduation. My wifes parents went through RCIA about 9 years ago and it really changed their lives. My wife attended Catholic high school but was a confirmed Lutheran like me. My dad came from a big Catholic family but he joined my mom’s church after they were married and I attended Mass often with my grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins so I was very familiar with Catholicism. Long story longer, I got really negative towards organized religion around the time of 9-11. My incredulity at Islam attacking us based on their hatred of those who did not share their faith was overwhelming. My wife had asked me a few times about joining the church but I told her that I didnt know if I could do it based on the feelings I had. Stupid, I know.

Then my beloved Dad died in 2006. It really threw me for a loop. I think the Holy Spirit was working in me through that because I starting reconsidering alot of things at that time. I knew deep down that my wonderful father was with the Lord in Heaven and there was no way to deny it. My heart was opening but I wasnt there yet. Then my mom-in-law passed less than a year later. We were fortunate enough to be there as a family when she passed. She was suffering from cancer and was horribly ill. It was such poweful experience, especially the smile on her face as she passed. She knew she was going to be with the Lord and had told us all she was ready. Soon after, my wife decided to attend the RCIA class beginning that fall. She asked me to go with her and I said I would give it a try but made no promises although I knew it was what I was supposed to do. As soon as I got there, I knew it was the right place for me. Through the process of confirmation and the last two years, my faith has grown tremendously. I opened my heart to the Lord and He has filled it up. I am so thankful that I followed my heart and really let him in. It has truly changed my life. I shared these experiences with the RCIA candidates to let them know that they, like me were there for a reason and that the Lord would guide them if the would open their hearts and let Him.

I know that I am ready to withstand any trial with His help. He really seems to be letting us know that He is the way and we need to follow Him.

Sorry about the long post. Just wanted to let you know where I am.