I started as a Catholic and totally missed the message, even after baptism, confession, first communion and confirmation. The real message got lost in all the noise of the religion. I believe that’s why so many are leaving some of the churches - religion takes a lot more time and effort and the message of Christ is what many hearts yearn to hear over all the “extras”. The Bible tells us what the great news and reality of Grace is and tells us how to become saved in Christ - it makes it the personal relationship it is meant to be and does not require priest or others to intercede in order to make the “magic” happen. IMO, that’s one of the reasons so many non-denominational churches are cropping up and thriving - more time and energy in the message and no wasting so much time on the “rules” which are inferred from scripture and other sources, but enumerated and “defined” withing the various religions.
Catholics and Orthodox have the most personal relationship with Jesus through the consumption of the Eucharist. No other group can have that relationship.
does not require priest or others to intercede in order to make the “magic” happen.
Jesus passed on His authority to the Apostles and only them, they in turn passed it on to other worthy men. So yes it does require a priest.
You are still a Catholic and can come home at any time. Just sit down with a priest and get your questions answered.
An honest reply which will receive the death of a thousand cuts:)