Read God's Word for yourselves. Know His promises and the Truth. Ask for His Spirit to guide you in all your ways. He will put you where He wants you, when He wants you there. Jesus loves you both so much....allow Him to show you how true that is!
Not true and I think you'll struggle mightily to back that up with Scripture. Are you then saying that the Holy Spirit was indwelling man before His Pentecostal coming in order to have all the people understand the books of Moses and the prophets (i.e., Old Testament)? While they are definitely different when illuminated with the light that comes from the Holy Spirit (i.e., for believers), unbelievers can find exactly what the Lord wants them to in His holy Word.
And honestly, many believers don't even understand 1/100th of the Bible. His Word is alive and we can spend an eternity understanding.
Following Jesus isn’t something we choose to do, He chooses us. What you’re feeling is normal, we are NOT designed to go through death and aging, we are made for the eternal. I recommend you open the Bible and start with the New Testament and go from there. Also check out the teachings of Chip Ingram, he goes in depth and teaches you how to really understand the Bible. He has an app if you’re interested.
The Holy Spirit is whispering to you, calling to your very soul.
I do not embrace a religious title, I am a follower of Jesus Christ.
The word “Christian” means little Christ, Jesus wants us to become a mirror of Him.
Well said. There's "religion" and then there's "spirituality" and it's really hard to get the two to meld together. Once heard an old saying "Church is like doctors. Well people don't go to doctors, only hurt or sick ones."
Read the Bible. Watch some Paul Washer, Jeff Durbin , Dr James White etc. Watch debates they have been in and consider the position they and their opponents take.
And most importantly, Ask God to open your eyes and heart. You will not see or take to heart unless he opens them for you.
Faith is a gift from God (Philippians) that not everybody receives (John Chapter 6, Romans Chapter 9).
Great advice. And I agree with the most important part being the Asking.
To OP, I come from a similar background, and I was very skeptical, intellectually, about accepting Jesus. I felt like of I wasn't completely sincere in my belief in Him, I would be a phony. I struggled with it for quite some time, praying and asking God in my prayers to show me his wisdom, but never directly asked to be shown. I was scared there would be nothing there if I asked.
Eventually I got up enough courage to literally, out loud, ask God to show me Jesus. I finally submitted my will to Him. And that's all it took.
Tldr: Faith is a downhill trickle that becomes a mighty river. Talk to God honestly. You are, ultimately, talking directly to His Spirit inside of you.
Hi UnderCover. I’m a lurker who only set up this account to answer your question here so forgive the handshake.
First of all, your question brings me so much joy. Jesus is the only true answer to all the problems of this world. His grace, mercy, truth, and justice are the opposite of what this world provides. And He proved His Love for us by choosing to die for our sins.
I would recommend starting in the book known as the Gospel of John. It is written to gentiles rather than to people born and raised in Israel with that background.
Books that could follow would be the book of acts then Romans. In Acts you’ll see the conversion of Saul a man who hated Jesus and Christians become a Christian and have his name changed to Paul, and he spent the rest of his life sharing Jesus all over the world at great personal cost. He even did it as a full time missionary while working to provide his own living by making and selling tents.
Amazing stories there. Then if you want a full soup to nuts walk through of God’s plan and gospel Paul explains the gospel beautifully in the book of Romans.
But here’s the most simple thing:
If you realize you aren’t perfect - like you’ve ever done anything wrong or selfish, then you need to be forgiven. And because of Jesus’ death and resurrection you can be forgiven and given new and eternal life. Now. All you must do is believe. And then you can follow Him.
Next I would get involved in a Christian church that teaches the Bible. If you give me your general area (not too specific is okay) I can make some recommendations for you and send you links to help you figure it out.
But I pray you’d just stop what you’re doing and realize God is drawing you in with His kindness and love and is using your own realizations about this corrupt world to show you there must be something better. And there is!
“O taste and see that the LORD [our God] is good; How blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who takes refuge in Him. O [reverently] fear the LORD, you His saints (believers, holy ones); For to those who fear Him there is no want.”
Psalms 34:8-9 AMP
https://www.bible.com/1588/psa.34.8-9.amp
Yes, my husband and I were in a lovely colonial town yesterday. We were surprised to see that there was not one but TWO pagan shops. Even though it's a tourist attraction, it's a small town, only 1,000 people live there. How can it support that many pagan shops? Ever since we learned that Satanism is actually being practiced we've started to question why "friendly" paganism is being promoted all over.
Anything for any new age/pagan/Wiccan religion a person might follow. Typical offering include crystals, sage, altars, herbs, tarot cards, Books on Wicca, norse religions, Native American religions, Celtic religions etc.
Thanks for the post!! I'm in a similar situation, not exactly Pagan, but always leaned towards that and Native American. I used to travel with Renaissance Faires so that should put it into perspective. Honestly, I've never fit in anywhere and was always in agreement with the story of Jesus but was under the 'spell' of 'organized religion bad'. I feel they orchestrated it that way to squash free thinking and the Spiritual connection at the same time.(to be clear, there are two Christianities in my view. REAL Christianity and the crap they sell).Now they've created a honey pot for the ones that aren't real or haven't been trapped already. That's the New Age and Pagan stuff. I've found myself questioning my Spiritual views as well. Sooo....to cut it short, I've prayed more in the last six months than the rest of my Life. Just create a connection with Love and gratitude and watch everything fall into place. Probably not the reply you were looking for..
Very similar situation here. It makes me very happy to hear it also happened to you! I finally understand why Christians use the word "Glorious" in reference to God. As a poet, I love when words work perfectly. They so often fail. :)
Hello my fren! Thank you for sharing your experience.
Ah, the Ren Faire circuit! Yes, we come from a very similar backgrounds. I used to be a member of the SCA and I have family members who still work Red Faires.
We sound like we are in a very similar boat, I grew up reading a LOT of fantasy books (they put so much propaganda in them) and I also was spelled into thinking that organized religion was bad. I think you are right that the cabal propagated these messages to harm us spiritually and that new age stuff was encouraged to keep us from starving spiritually without really filling us up either, especially since the old teachings are lost so it's not really grounded.
It's refreshing to see others feeling the same way in these crazy days...maybe we can contact each other and see what we come up with! I'm very interested in collaboration and organization now, I simply have to apply myself and I choose to walk forward as a Child of God, a Warrior for Truth....A TRUE PATRIOT!! Maybe we'll get comfy with each other and connect soon...hey, God bless you and your family!!????
I am touched by both your posts. I am a terrible "Christian" tbh. I can, however, based on my limited knowledge and based on what God has revealed to me through the years point you guys in the right direction.
What you are seeking, what you need, and what you want, need to align with God. So it is easier to point out first what you should NOT be seeking. You shouldn't be seeking a church. Why? Because we have been conditioned to seek a guidance from men, or people of authority. For this you ought to be careful because many are the ways of deceit. Only one is the True way. Jesus is the light, and the way. Nobody reaches the Father except through Him. So, what you SHOULD be seeking is a relationship with Jesus. When you seek that, everything else will fall into place.
First thing you ought to do is learn about Him. Then understand His mission and why He did what He did. Then, when ready and your soul is ready, accept that truth and confess to yourself and God that you truly accept Jesus as your Lord and savior. Seek His understanding and be sensitive to the Holy Spirit as you walk through this journey. To be sensitive to the Spirit that will dwell within you must feed it, read the word, scrutinize, ask God for revelation. God will put you in the right place, at the right time, with the right people. Congregate and share your testimony for others encouragement. However when you congregate, know this; men fail, and your sights need to be placed on the Lord. The journey is heavy if you make it that way, and know that God will reveal to you the things that he wants you to change. However if you bring your sins and your troubles to the feet of Christ, He will help you with the burden. Be humble and recognize your imperfections, for when we stumble and we recognize our sin, His power becomes manifest.
Renaissance Fair "to be put in perspective"... is a mind fuck LARP masquerading as history. RE: Christianity - Two books, however is actually a Renaissance concept: What's the two books approach?
Today’s theologians should seek a coherent way to integrate what we are learning about the natural world through the best science with what the Holy Scriptures tell us about the God of creation and redemption. Perhaps we could revive the Renaissance concept of the Two Books. According to the concept of the Two Books, nature is a book of revelation. Nature reveals to us something about the mind of God the creator. St. Paul alludes to the book of nature.
“Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made.” ~ Romans 1:20
The second book, of course, is the Bible. In this book we learn of God the redeemer. Nature gives us general revelation, whereas the Bible gives us special revelation. The two books together provide the resources for understanding reality in relationship to God, the creator and redeemer.
"But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee: and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell the: Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee." ~ Job 12:7-8
I am also part Native American... Lakota Nation, Sihasapa Tribe. On one side. Protestant by way of Scandinavia and Europe on the other. It was not a stretch for me to do much in the way of comparative religions... once I acknowledged that I was, in essence, a believer in something greater than myself.
My mother by way of Norman Vincent Peale (my grandmother) was lead into New Age stuff (So Cal) that fucked her up for decades.
Irony of ironies being... she is now a PCA Presbyterian. There are 2 Christianity's... but not perhaps in the way you mean.
RE: Native American Spirituality: Natural law/Native American says there are 3 perspectives: What can we learn from them. "Which one is the good one?"/Duality...
https://youtu.be/Pf4fl2ExZjo
Some pastors become corrupted, and that's a tenet of Christianity, that all are sinners and vulnerable to temptation. You have to look past the people to the doctrine so that you can understand when people start veering away. Read up on church history so you can understand why the various denominations squabble and then you can make a better choice. Read the Bible prayerfully with a desire for guidance. You have to ask and seek. Jesus is knocking but he won't force his way in.
Not just pastors corrupt. Pretty sure the vast majority of denominations get their marching orders from bigger organizations. A lot of them global organizations. To me, they’re all corrupt. If you don’t think satan has infiltrated the church through witches and warlocks you might need to look into it. Don’t think the modern church is described anywhere in the Bible. In fact, when Jesus is teaching he’s usually sitting down in some sort of rabbinical fashion.
The main reason for thousands of doctrines and splits... are to cut off the dead/flawed doctrinal branches. Anything of man is inherently flawed. The living church struggles and seeks to be and keep godliness ... even though it is a "human institution" and thus flawed. It aspires, grows, changes and explores and re-explores that which is in the Bible. Seeking to be or to become or to provide a way for man to be beloved to God like His son Jesus.
The cabal is everywhere.
Vigano, Catholic warrior of light, is with the Catholic church even though the "rulers" of the church are evil.
You won't find a religion that the cabal hasn't usurped. But one may find a church that is run by a non-brainwashed pastor/priest but that requires decernment and local research.
Thank you my fren. Like I say our best friends are Catholic and they seem like they have a lot of really good things going. Their adult children like them, etc.
Only recently (about 5 weeks) I've decided to do bible study with my friend who is a Jehovah's witness. Honestly everything I thought I knew about them was wrong, all the stigma. They just use the bible to answer the bible and the questions an individual might have. The bible actually references itself an infinite amount of times, there is no stops as it goes in circles. Jesus himself said to not have Fathers (priests and those similar) and Rabbis (teachers). Your Church experience should lack any priest. Just read the Bible and use the reference points in the middle of each page
Thanks my friend. Yes, I've become VERY weary of any socially recognized/enforced "stigma." Ridicule is a very effective way to prevent people from going their own way.
You have a beautiful testimony and your decision will be a key chapter in it. Christianity is not ultimately about denominations but about a core unity. You'll find many Christians with very positive views on natural healing, herbs, vegetables, spirituality, and even the classic philosophers with a slight tweaking. We do hope to be the escape from Plato's cave.
All denominations have degrees of corruption between 0% and 100%. As so many have said here, read the Bible; realize it is the message of God's universe put into words, a story of stories that covers everything. God will guide you to the people you need in your life if he has gotten you this far.
Online, communities.win/c/christianity, where I contribute, is developing well and is an enfolding, welcoming community for honest inquirers. Most important, if you've ever experienced spirit in your life, ask God to reveal to Spirit of Jesus Christ to you, and you'll never regret it.
Thank you my fren. Like I say, our best friends are Catholic and we have many values in common with them. Culturally, Catholicism probably is a very good fit for us. We are just concerned about the Pope and the corrupt pedos who seem to have infiltrated the church.
Thank you my fren. I have tried to read the Bible in the past and it was hard for me to "get it." I think like you say, more context is needed for people like myself. I appreciate your advice, I'll look into that channel.
religion is private. suggest you start by just reading your bible. just about every one will try and sell you on there own brand of religion. No religious group is safe from infiltration in fact churches make good hunting grounds for people with bad intent and motives. You will know Christians by the fruit of there labor . there are a lot of good religious people but almost all organizations have a level of corruption becouse of mans nature....I suggest you take a couple of months and just visit different churches in your area and find one you are comfortable with. this may or may not be the one you stick with. the important thing is finding people who are loving becouse we all need love and support. god bless and I will prey for you just be aware that not all who profess faith in Christ are Christians but I feel that it is not my place to say whether they are or are not becouse in the end its all between you and god.
If you want to learn, worship, fellowship and celebrate with others, I have found a non denomination church to be more to my liking. I have tried different religions and they just didnt suit me.
Do not confuse corruption of some with corruption of the institution, per se. Satanists know Catholicism was founded by Jesus, their arch enemy, and do everything in their power to tear down His Church -- historically, by persecution, more recently, by infiltration. Several decades ago, multiple waves of marxists, masons, and perverts covertly entered seminaries and convents, with the goal of destroying from within, and causing scandal and confusion throughout. Many got into positions of influence and power in the hierarchy, causing further damage. Nevertheless, there is Christ's promise, that the gates of hell would never prevail against His Church.
All non-Catholic denominations are splintered groups, tracing their own origins back to fallible human founders, in every case rejecting some aspect of the authority of the Catholic Church, in exchange, setting themselves and all followers up as individual popes (everyone free to choose their own interpretation of everything) -- exactly why there are now thousands of denominations, itself a scandal to those seeking the truth.
Check out the writing of the earliest Christian writers - Irenaeus, Polycarp, Clement, et al -- aka, the fathers of the church. They clearly echo what are recognizably the unchanging teachings of the Catholic Church, including Jesus' real presence in the Eucharist, importance of baptism, confession of sins, etc.
"To study history is to cease to be protestant" -- Cardinal John Henry Newman (former Anglican, converted to Catholicism.
I think you are certainly on to something there. I think the Satanists have made a concerted effort to corrupt our most sacred institutions - learning, art, and of course religion.
The seminaries seem like they have really been infiltrated. My husband was recently speaking with a number of young men who were studying to become Catholic priests and they were all extremely flamboyant and were studying "queer Catholic theory," with extremely explicit topics that frankly are too rude to repeat here.
However, my husband and I really like the tradition and culture of Catholicism and understand a lot of practicing Catholics are fighting back against the perversion of their religion. The only issue is, how do you protect children from the pedos who have infiltrated the religion?
Great question. It isn't easy, yet it is necessary, and God blesses your efforts.
Many seminaries have had ongoing cleaning efforts, since pope JP2 (moreso latter half his pontificate), or have been shut down, if deemed too far gone. The infiltration often included putting in perv-sympathetic filter personnel, who actually rejected the good candidates, and let in the mixed up ones (in some cases, with active recruitment as well). Even seminaries where this did not occur as much still often replaced solid theology, philosophy, logic, homiletics, etc., with wishy-washy pop-psychology classes, and worse.
So, there's been a lot of damage, and lots to recover from, in the Church -- but with all it's current disfigurement, it still is the church Christ founded. It is past time for lay Catholics to realize they need to become more active participants in helping correct course -- supporting the good priests and schools, and providing systems of accountability in each diocese.
For protecting kids, you can take a variety of strategies, and combine them -- ask around for word of mouth referrals of good priests (and there are many), verify that the parish and any affiliated schools are accurately teaching Catholicism, and not some DS/DC heterodox agenda. Educate yourselves and kids with ongoing good catechetical training, and age-appropriate counsel on what to watch out for and avoid.
One highly recommended tool for teaching sound catechetics is the amazing book by Barbara Morgan, "Echoing the Mystery" -- it combines beautiful art, music, scripture, excerpts by church fathers, and apologetics, in explaining every dogma -- including also common errors and misunderstandings, and why those are wrong.
Also, BIG congrats on swinging that far away from Paganism. White Paganism was literally dead for centuries until the 1900s socialists (Nazi's in particular) reinvented it as a tool to peal people away from the churches.
That whole philosophy is RIFE with anti-Christian values, and coming that far so quickly is quite an accomplishment. I'd rather have someone like you around then a guy who was born and raised among good Christians and never had his faith tested. Converts are like tempered steel.
Can’t agree more! Start with the source of truth(the Bible). Just like you research political talking points from trusted sources, get your biblical ones from the Bible and pray where to go next in your search for a relationship with Christ. Praise God for all the curious hearts that can feel where truth resides!!!!
After a lifetime of paganism and new age beliefs, I was challenged to read the Bible in 2018, and turned to Christ. I recommend looking up Doreen Virtue; read her new book, watch her YouTube videos. After Christ led me to truth, I then discovered Q and the corruption of our government and world and how bad the lies are. The most important thing you can do is first really study the Bible for yourself. Use your brain - think about how corrupt humans are and how our nature is to lie and manipulate and control others. That’s why we return to God’s Holy Word which is truth.
I would recommend finding a small church where people can get to know you. I've yet to see a pastor of a big church who can keep his mind on Christ and not start treating his work like just another business. If a teacher is telling you to follow them instead of Jesus, they're only serving their own interests.
I've always been a hybrid heathen christian, a zen gnostic, a general religious renegade. Methodist sunday school with my grandmother gave me the foundation as a kid and being 'saved' at a Baptist church with a friend, and spent lots of time in those pagan shops, festivals, and books in my teens and 20s.
I see truth and God in many places (this is God's creation afterall) so I've never much minded the crossover. It works for me and I'm well read in both scripture, greek classics, and ancient myths so I love discussing it. Tbh, I've never much liked most "pagans" (the woo woo new age kind) nor most "christians" (the because pastor said so types), I just see truth in ancient texts and in rituals of the present moment. Different languages for the same reality/deity. I believe in God, as I tell folks, but not necessarily what man says about God.
But along with you, Q's disturbing revelations about the death and sex cults of the cabal set me back on my heels and I've questioned not so much my own beliefs (garnered from the ancients) but definitely how I raise my kids. A godly grounding is imperative for us all in this world, regardless of the questions you may wrestle with later on.
I think the same evil that infected the church (vatican etc) infected other belief systems and ultimately drove unwary and unscrupulous people (natural searchers and seekers perhaps) into these cults.
I have started telling my kids stories on sundays from the bible and other inspired texts, until we can find a sunday church service we vibe with. So they have a foundation in faith.
I think all of us are rethinking our beliefs, practices, and associations since the institutions we thought we could trust are so rotten. It doesn't mean we need to throw out our own truths and loved experiences, just that we have to rethink where we get our truth.
God is real. God is goodness. God is Being itself.
Everything else is just details.
Godspeed, fren. Namaste. Blessed be.
We're all just walking each other HOME.
I am a Catholic, born and raised, and I echo your concerns about the leadership. However I will continue being a Christian forever, no matter what. I suggest you visit as many churches near you as you can, just to get a feel for them and the local leadership. All religions have good and less good local groups. In my opinion any of the Christian faiths would be great, just choose the one that fits you and yours best. Most places have great programs to get you started and up to speed, as that is one of the tasks of being a Christian, helping others to join the faith. I'm praying for you, congratulations for coming to this point of decision in your life. Good bless you.
I am spiritual Daoist. It's less about recognizing God than it is recognizing that natural laws of existence.
I recommend a brief foray into this philosophy to compare with Christianity. The core values are very similar, minus the burden of worship and services.
Get yourself a KJV Bible (King James Version, not the NKJV but the KJV) and begin to get yourself immersed with our loving Creators' words who loves you so much that he took the form of man to die on the cross for you and your husband so you may have everlasting life if you give your soul and heart to Him.
Know what He promised, what He prophesied about and how they are all coming to fruition (in His time and in our time), and how you tie into His grand plans. Can't wait to see you on the other side!
You'll be interested to know that not everyone in the Catholic Church is willing to accept Pope Francis, who is sometimes regarded as the "False Pope" due to the manner in which he became pope. Normally, a Pope reigns until his death, but Pope Francis's predecessor Pope Benedict XVI resigned, the first to do so since the 15th Century. And yet, Pope Benedict XVI remains an influential Pope Emeritus, thus leading to an unusual situation of "Two Popes". This mirrors the current situation in the US where there are "Two Presidents" due to the election coup.
And just like how the people who are awake don't give a toss about Biden, so too do the awake within the Catholic Church try at best to ignore Pope Francis as if he were not pope. Indeed, if they do take notice of him, they end up feeling disgust at his decisions such as his bizarre (and possibly satanic) Nativity Scene, his acceptance of gay marriage, his Marxist leanings (in fact all of his predecessors of the past two centuries have condemned Communism), and so on. Yet there is a general feeling among the awake worshippers that the Church will one day be "retaken" from the corrupt leadership and restored to its former glory. Again, this is much like how we are feeling with the Presidency.
But enough about Church politics. I'd suggest your safest bet is to learn about Christianity with your best friends in the Catholic Church, because by doing so with you'd receive a strong foundation in Christianity no matter where you choose to go next. Note that when you do so you'll first be catechumens for about a year, i.e. people who are preparing themselves for a Christian baptism. In Christianity, "there is only one baptism for the forgiveness of sins": no matter the denomination, your baptism is your "membership" to Christianity under One Church (albeit divided by schisms throughout its long history), because the Church is ultimately subordinate to the God the Father (Creator), the Son (Christ the Redeemer) and the Holy Spirit (Giver of Life). Your relationship with God is therefore ultimately personal and not bound to any one denomination or church leader.
Despite the divides, the core beliefs are shared across denominations. In many ways they are like many families, sometimes squabbling, sometimes good friends, sometimes healthy or sometimes dealing with messy affairs, under the umbrella of Christ. Thus if you wish to look into other denominations after baptism you'd be okay to do so. Sometimes that may mean a period of initiation within that denomination before receiving Communion, but because you'd already be baptised you wouldn't need to be re-baptised.
Thank you my friend. Yes, my husband and I have been discussing this very issue - we like our friends a lot and we like the history and culture of Catholicism so it may be the place to start. The only concern we have is how do you keep children safe with the issue of so many pedos having infiltrated the church?
Not every priest is a pedo and it's perhaps less prevalent than you might be led to think by the media, both MSM and non-MSM. In saying so, child abuse does happen, and not only of the sexual nature. For example, I read some decades-old letters about a priest who used excessive physical violence to punish kids, and was promptly removed from his post. On the other hand, I know of priests who hold rather strong views against pedophilia, and are themselves aware of pedo priests as they are often privy to such things going on. Privy is the key word: they may not necessarily have any overt authority to act on the matter, and they must maintain confidentiality.
I'd say your best bet is to treat them as you would a teacher to your child, as that is ultimately who they are. For example ensure that your child's safety is never put at risk of being compromised. It is also important learn and observe who your priests are as people, as the priest-worshiper relationship should never be the only relationship at play.
Another thing is to keep in good contact with your community, especially with your friends, and discuss with them seriously about the issue of pedophilia within the Church. You might even want to talk directly with the parish priest, the parish secretary or other key persons in the parish about your concerns. Some may be uncomfortable with talking about child abuse but, in this day and age, it is a topic that must be brought up and addressed by members within the Church community lest it be consumed by that scourge. The key is that you talk about it.
Next, I am a cradle Catholic. After Vat II I became disillusioned. The depth of spirituality was gone. I went seeking in eastern religions and after a couple of decades I had a rocky return to Catholicism. I asked too many questions and recognized too many pagan elements that crept into the church and essentially annoyed a lot of people. I believe the sacraments hold redemption.
However, if it's not for you, find some good evangelicals. Find people who will pray with you and over you. Find those who work in the mission fields of their own backyards.
Read The Bible.
New Testament
Also read good commentary
Read God's Word for yourselves. Know His promises and the Truth. Ask for His Spirit to guide you in all your ways. He will put you where He wants you, when He wants you there. Jesus loves you both so much....allow Him to show you how true that is!
If someone isn't saved, it is impossible to understand the bible. Until the holy spirit in dwells someone, they are blinded to Gods word.
Not true and I think you'll struggle mightily to back that up with Scripture. Are you then saying that the Holy Spirit was indwelling man before His Pentecostal coming in order to have all the people understand the books of Moses and the prophets (i.e., Old Testament)? While they are definitely different when illuminated with the light that comes from the Holy Spirit (i.e., for believers), unbelievers can find exactly what the Lord wants them to in His holy Word.
And honestly, many believers don't even understand 1/100th of the Bible. His Word is alive and we can spend an eternity understanding.
That's a load of crap.
Ask and ye shall receive.
I see this is getting downvoted but I'll admit, it's been hard for me to understand the Bible on my own. My husband and I feel like we need guidance.
Just get a bible and start reading.
Following Jesus isn’t something we choose to do, He chooses us. What you’re feeling is normal, we are NOT designed to go through death and aging, we are made for the eternal. I recommend you open the Bible and start with the New Testament and go from there. Also check out the teachings of Chip Ingram, he goes in depth and teaches you how to really understand the Bible. He has an app if you’re interested.
The Holy Spirit is whispering to you, calling to your very soul.
I do not embrace a religious title, I am a follower of Jesus Christ. The word “Christian” means little Christ, Jesus wants us to become a mirror of Him.
Well said. There's "religion" and then there's "spirituality" and it's really hard to get the two to meld together. Once heard an old saying "Church is like doctors. Well people don't go to doctors, only hurt or sick ones."
It's not a museum of saints, but a hospital for sinners.
Spirituality is a mess.
Faith.
Faith in our Master and Creator.
Paganism is about spirituality.
Faith is about knowing God and being in Him. Faith is the substance and evidence.
Chip Ingram began my awakening with his book "The Invisible War"
614 represent! :)
Read the Bible. Watch some Paul Washer, Jeff Durbin , Dr James White etc. Watch debates they have been in and consider the position they and their opponents take.
And most importantly, Ask God to open your eyes and heart. You will not see or take to heart unless he opens them for you.
Faith is a gift from God (Philippians) that not everybody receives (John Chapter 6, Romans Chapter 9).
Thank Him for it.
Praying for you.
Great advice. And I agree with the most important part being the Asking.
To OP, I come from a similar background, and I was very skeptical, intellectually, about accepting Jesus. I felt like of I wasn't completely sincere in my belief in Him, I would be a phony. I struggled with it for quite some time, praying and asking God in my prayers to show me his wisdom, but never directly asked to be shown. I was scared there would be nothing there if I asked.
Eventually I got up enough courage to literally, out loud, ask God to show me Jesus. I finally submitted my will to Him. And that's all it took.
Tldr: Faith is a downhill trickle that becomes a mighty river. Talk to God honestly. You are, ultimately, talking directly to His Spirit inside of you.
Tearing up thinking about it as I type this :)
Thank you my fren.
Hi UnderCover. I’m a lurker who only set up this account to answer your question here so forgive the handshake.
First of all, your question brings me so much joy. Jesus is the only true answer to all the problems of this world. His grace, mercy, truth, and justice are the opposite of what this world provides. And He proved His Love for us by choosing to die for our sins.
I would recommend starting in the book known as the Gospel of John. It is written to gentiles rather than to people born and raised in Israel with that background.
Books that could follow would be the book of acts then Romans. In Acts you’ll see the conversion of Saul a man who hated Jesus and Christians become a Christian and have his name changed to Paul, and he spent the rest of his life sharing Jesus all over the world at great personal cost. He even did it as a full time missionary while working to provide his own living by making and selling tents.
Amazing stories there. Then if you want a full soup to nuts walk through of God’s plan and gospel Paul explains the gospel beautifully in the book of Romans.
But here’s the most simple thing: If you realize you aren’t perfect - like you’ve ever done anything wrong or selfish, then you need to be forgiven. And because of Jesus’ death and resurrection you can be forgiven and given new and eternal life. Now. All you must do is believe. And then you can follow Him.
Next I would get involved in a Christian church that teaches the Bible. If you give me your general area (not too specific is okay) I can make some recommendations for you and send you links to help you figure it out.
But I pray you’d just stop what you’re doing and realize God is drawing you in with His kindness and love and is using your own realizations about this corrupt world to show you there must be something better. And there is!
“O taste and see that the LORD [our God] is good; How blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who takes refuge in Him. O [reverently] fear the LORD, you His saints (believers, holy ones); For to those who fear Him there is no want.” Psalms 34:8-9 AMP https://www.bible.com/1588/psa.34.8-9.amp
Thank you my fren, very kind of you to make an account to share your advice with me. I appreciate it very very much.
I think you make an interesting observation about the pagan shops.
Yes, my husband and I were in a lovely colonial town yesterday. We were surprised to see that there was not one but TWO pagan shops. Even though it's a tourist attraction, it's a small town, only 1,000 people live there. How can it support that many pagan shops? Ever since we learned that Satanism is actually being practiced we've started to question why "friendly" paganism is being promoted all over.
Anything for any new age/pagan/Wiccan religion a person might follow. Typical offering include crystals, sage, altars, herbs, tarot cards, Books on Wicca, norse religions, Native American religions, Celtic religions etc.
Thanks for the post!! I'm in a similar situation, not exactly Pagan, but always leaned towards that and Native American. I used to travel with Renaissance Faires so that should put it into perspective. Honestly, I've never fit in anywhere and was always in agreement with the story of Jesus but was under the 'spell' of 'organized religion bad'. I feel they orchestrated it that way to squash free thinking and the Spiritual connection at the same time.(to be clear, there are two Christianities in my view. REAL Christianity and the crap they sell).Now they've created a honey pot for the ones that aren't real or haven't been trapped already. That's the New Age and Pagan stuff. I've found myself questioning my Spiritual views as well. Sooo....to cut it short, I've prayed more in the last six months than the rest of my Life. Just create a connection with Love and gratitude and watch everything fall into place. Probably not the reply you were looking for..
Probably not the reply you were looking for..
Exactly the comment that was needed!
Very similar situation here. It makes me very happy to hear it also happened to you! I finally understand why Christians use the word "Glorious" in reference to God. As a poet, I love when words work perfectly. They so often fail. :)
Hello my fren! Thank you for sharing your experience.
Ah, the Ren Faire circuit! Yes, we come from a very similar backgrounds. I used to be a member of the SCA and I have family members who still work Red Faires.
We sound like we are in a very similar boat, I grew up reading a LOT of fantasy books (they put so much propaganda in them) and I also was spelled into thinking that organized religion was bad. I think you are right that the cabal propagated these messages to harm us spiritually and that new age stuff was encouraged to keep us from starving spiritually without really filling us up either, especially since the old teachings are lost so it's not really grounded.
It's refreshing to see others feeling the same way in these crazy days...maybe we can contact each other and see what we come up with! I'm very interested in collaboration and organization now, I simply have to apply myself and I choose to walk forward as a Child of God, a Warrior for Truth....A TRUE PATRIOT!! Maybe we'll get comfy with each other and connect soon...hey, God bless you and your family!!????
Get a study bible that has a historical context type feature.
I tend to not pay as much attention to denomination and give more credence to the preachers ability to keep my attention.
May God bless you in your journey.
I am touched by both your posts. I am a terrible "Christian" tbh. I can, however, based on my limited knowledge and based on what God has revealed to me through the years point you guys in the right direction.
What you are seeking, what you need, and what you want, need to align with God. So it is easier to point out first what you should NOT be seeking. You shouldn't be seeking a church. Why? Because we have been conditioned to seek a guidance from men, or people of authority. For this you ought to be careful because many are the ways of deceit. Only one is the True way. Jesus is the light, and the way. Nobody reaches the Father except through Him. So, what you SHOULD be seeking is a relationship with Jesus. When you seek that, everything else will fall into place.
First thing you ought to do is learn about Him. Then understand His mission and why He did what He did. Then, when ready and your soul is ready, accept that truth and confess to yourself and God that you truly accept Jesus as your Lord and savior. Seek His understanding and be sensitive to the Holy Spirit as you walk through this journey. To be sensitive to the Spirit that will dwell within you must feed it, read the word, scrutinize, ask God for revelation. God will put you in the right place, at the right time, with the right people. Congregate and share your testimony for others encouragement. However when you congregate, know this; men fail, and your sights need to be placed on the Lord. The journey is heavy if you make it that way, and know that God will reveal to you the things that he wants you to change. However if you bring your sins and your troubles to the feet of Christ, He will help you with the burden. Be humble and recognize your imperfections, for when we stumble and we recognize our sin, His power becomes manifest.
Renaissance Fair "to be put in perspective"... is a mind fuck LARP masquerading as history. RE: Christianity - Two books, however is actually a Renaissance concept: What's the two books approach?
Today’s theologians should seek a coherent way to integrate what we are learning about the natural world through the best science with what the Holy Scriptures tell us about the God of creation and redemption. Perhaps we could revive the Renaissance concept of the Two Books. According to the concept of the Two Books, nature is a book of revelation. Nature reveals to us something about the mind of God the creator. St. Paul alludes to the book of nature.
“Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made.” ~ Romans 1:20
The second book, of course, is the Bible. In this book we learn of God the redeemer. Nature gives us general revelation, whereas the Bible gives us special revelation. The two books together provide the resources for understanding reality in relationship to God, the creator and redeemer.
"But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee: and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell the: Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee." ~ Job 12:7-8
I am also part Native American... Lakota Nation, Sihasapa Tribe. On one side. Protestant by way of Scandinavia and Europe on the other. It was not a stretch for me to do much in the way of comparative religions... once I acknowledged that I was, in essence, a believer in something greater than myself.
My mother by way of Norman Vincent Peale (my grandmother) was lead into New Age stuff (So Cal) that fucked her up for decades.
Irony of ironies being... she is now a PCA Presbyterian. There are 2 Christianity's... but not perhaps in the way you mean.
RE: Native American Spirituality: Natural law/Native American says there are 3 perspectives: What can we learn from them. "Which one is the good one?"/Duality... https://youtu.be/Pf4fl2ExZjo
Some pastors become corrupted, and that's a tenet of Christianity, that all are sinners and vulnerable to temptation. You have to look past the people to the doctrine so that you can understand when people start veering away. Read up on church history so you can understand why the various denominations squabble and then you can make a better choice. Read the Bible prayerfully with a desire for guidance. You have to ask and seek. Jesus is knocking but he won't force his way in.
Not just pastors corrupt. Pretty sure the vast majority of denominations get their marching orders from bigger organizations. A lot of them global organizations. To me, they’re all corrupt. If you don’t think satan has infiltrated the church through witches and warlocks you might need to look into it. Don’t think the modern church is described anywhere in the Bible. In fact, when Jesus is teaching he’s usually sitting down in some sort of rabbinical fashion.
The main reason for thousands of doctrines and splits... are to cut off the dead/flawed doctrinal branches. Anything of man is inherently flawed. The living church struggles and seeks to be and keep godliness ... even though it is a "human institution" and thus flawed. It aspires, grows, changes and explores and re-explores that which is in the Bible. Seeking to be or to become or to provide a way for man to be beloved to God like His son Jesus.
The cabal is everywhere. Vigano, Catholic warrior of light, is with the Catholic church even though the "rulers" of the church are evil. You won't find a religion that the cabal hasn't usurped. But one may find a church that is run by a non-brainwashed pastor/priest but that requires decernment and local research.
Thank you my fren. Like I say our best friends are Catholic and they seem like they have a lot of really good things going. Their adult children like them, etc.
Only recently (about 5 weeks) I've decided to do bible study with my friend who is a Jehovah's witness. Honestly everything I thought I knew about them was wrong, all the stigma. They just use the bible to answer the bible and the questions an individual might have. The bible actually references itself an infinite amount of times, there is no stops as it goes in circles. Jesus himself said to not have Fathers (priests and those similar) and Rabbis (teachers). Your Church experience should lack any priest. Just read the Bible and use the reference points in the middle of each page
Thanks my friend. Yes, I've become VERY weary of any socially recognized/enforced "stigma." Ridicule is a very effective way to prevent people from going their own way.
be very careful!!
You have a beautiful testimony and your decision will be a key chapter in it. Christianity is not ultimately about denominations but about a core unity. You'll find many Christians with very positive views on natural healing, herbs, vegetables, spirituality, and even the classic philosophers with a slight tweaking. We do hope to be the escape from Plato's cave.
All denominations have degrees of corruption between 0% and 100%. As so many have said here, read the Bible; realize it is the message of God's universe put into words, a story of stories that covers everything. God will guide you to the people you need in your life if he has gotten you this far.
Online, communities.win/c/christianity, where I contribute, is developing well and is an enfolding, welcoming community for honest inquirers. Most important, if you've ever experienced spirit in your life, ask God to reveal to Spirit of Jesus Christ to you, and you'll never regret it.
I love your answer. God will guide you to the people you need and where He wants you.
Thank you my fren.
Thank you my fren. Like I say, our best friends are Catholic and we have many values in common with them. Culturally, Catholicism probably is a very good fit for us. We are just concerned about the Pope and the corrupt pedos who seem to have infiltrated the church.
Thank you my fren. I have tried to read the Bible in the past and it was hard for me to "get it." I think like you say, more context is needed for people like myself. I appreciate your advice, I'll look into that channel.
Love the Bible Project! They are also on The Bible App by YouVersion.
religion is private. suggest you start by just reading your bible. just about every one will try and sell you on there own brand of religion. No religious group is safe from infiltration in fact churches make good hunting grounds for people with bad intent and motives. You will know Christians by the fruit of there labor . there are a lot of good religious people but almost all organizations have a level of corruption becouse of mans nature....I suggest you take a couple of months and just visit different churches in your area and find one you are comfortable with. this may or may not be the one you stick with. the important thing is finding people who are loving becouse we all need love and support. god bless and I will prey for you just be aware that not all who profess faith in Christ are Christians but I feel that it is not my place to say whether they are or are not becouse in the end its all between you and god.
There are prayer groups on here too
If you want to learn, worship, fellowship and celebrate with others, I have found a non denomination church to be more to my liking. I have tried different religions and they just didnt suit me.
Do not confuse corruption of some with corruption of the institution, per se. Satanists know Catholicism was founded by Jesus, their arch enemy, and do everything in their power to tear down His Church -- historically, by persecution, more recently, by infiltration. Several decades ago, multiple waves of marxists, masons, and perverts covertly entered seminaries and convents, with the goal of destroying from within, and causing scandal and confusion throughout. Many got into positions of influence and power in the hierarchy, causing further damage. Nevertheless, there is Christ's promise, that the gates of hell would never prevail against His Church.
All non-Catholic denominations are splintered groups, tracing their own origins back to fallible human founders, in every case rejecting some aspect of the authority of the Catholic Church, in exchange, setting themselves and all followers up as individual popes (everyone free to choose their own interpretation of everything) -- exactly why there are now thousands of denominations, itself a scandal to those seeking the truth.
Check out the writing of the earliest Christian writers - Irenaeus, Polycarp, Clement, et al -- aka, the fathers of the church. They clearly echo what are recognizably the unchanging teachings of the Catholic Church, including Jesus' real presence in the Eucharist, importance of baptism, confession of sins, etc.
"To study history is to cease to be protestant" -- Cardinal John Henry Newman (former Anglican, converted to Catholicism.
I think you are certainly on to something there. I think the Satanists have made a concerted effort to corrupt our most sacred institutions - learning, art, and of course religion.
The seminaries seem like they have really been infiltrated. My husband was recently speaking with a number of young men who were studying to become Catholic priests and they were all extremely flamboyant and were studying "queer Catholic theory," with extremely explicit topics that frankly are too rude to repeat here.
However, my husband and I really like the tradition and culture of Catholicism and understand a lot of practicing Catholics are fighting back against the perversion of their religion. The only issue is, how do you protect children from the pedos who have infiltrated the religion?
Great question. It isn't easy, yet it is necessary, and God blesses your efforts.
Many seminaries have had ongoing cleaning efforts, since pope JP2 (moreso latter half his pontificate), or have been shut down, if deemed too far gone. The infiltration often included putting in perv-sympathetic filter personnel, who actually rejected the good candidates, and let in the mixed up ones (in some cases, with active recruitment as well). Even seminaries where this did not occur as much still often replaced solid theology, philosophy, logic, homiletics, etc., with wishy-washy pop-psychology classes, and worse.
So, there's been a lot of damage, and lots to recover from, in the Church -- but with all it's current disfigurement, it still is the church Christ founded. It is past time for lay Catholics to realize they need to become more active participants in helping correct course -- supporting the good priests and schools, and providing systems of accountability in each diocese.
For protecting kids, you can take a variety of strategies, and combine them -- ask around for word of mouth referrals of good priests (and there are many), verify that the parish and any affiliated schools are accurately teaching Catholicism, and not some DS/DC heterodox agenda. Educate yourselves and kids with ongoing good catechetical training, and age-appropriate counsel on what to watch out for and avoid.
One highly recommended tool for teaching sound catechetics is the amazing book by Barbara Morgan, "Echoing the Mystery" -- it combines beautiful art, music, scripture, excerpts by church fathers, and apologetics, in explaining every dogma -- including also common errors and misunderstandings, and why those are wrong.
Thank you for your thoughtful reply my friend, very helpful and very appreciated.
Thank you my fren for sharing your experience and your advice. I will look into these online services. Very appreciated!
Also, BIG congrats on swinging that far away from Paganism. White Paganism was literally dead for centuries until the 1900s socialists (Nazi's in particular) reinvented it as a tool to peal people away from the churches.
That whole philosophy is RIFE with anti-Christian values, and coming that far so quickly is quite an accomplishment. I'd rather have someone like you around then a guy who was born and raised among good Christians and never had his faith tested. Converts are like tempered steel.
there is a thing: non-denominational
It's a group of people who know they need Jesus
That is all
Read the Bible... Non-denominational. Denominations are man made. Start by reading the New Testament.
Can’t agree more! Start with the source of truth(the Bible). Just like you research political talking points from trusted sources, get your biblical ones from the Bible and pray where to go next in your search for a relationship with Christ. Praise God for all the curious hearts that can feel where truth resides!!!!
After a lifetime of paganism and new age beliefs, I was challenged to read the Bible in 2018, and turned to Christ. I recommend looking up Doreen Virtue; read her new book, watch her YouTube videos. After Christ led me to truth, I then discovered Q and the corruption of our government and world and how bad the lies are. The most important thing you can do is first really study the Bible for yourself. Use your brain - think about how corrupt humans are and how our nature is to lie and manipulate and control others. That’s why we return to God’s Holy Word which is truth.
I would recommend finding a small church where people can get to know you. I've yet to see a pastor of a big church who can keep his mind on Christ and not start treating his work like just another business. If a teacher is telling you to follow them instead of Jesus, they're only serving their own interests.
Try out a nondenominational church first.
I'm curious about these. I knew some nondenominational folks in college and they seemed very earnest and kind.
I attend a nondenominational church community, it’s quite a blessing from being raised Baptist!
Similar story:
I've always been a hybrid heathen christian, a zen gnostic, a general religious renegade. Methodist sunday school with my grandmother gave me the foundation as a kid and being 'saved' at a Baptist church with a friend, and spent lots of time in those pagan shops, festivals, and books in my teens and 20s.
I see truth and God in many places (this is God's creation afterall) so I've never much minded the crossover. It works for me and I'm well read in both scripture, greek classics, and ancient myths so I love discussing it. Tbh, I've never much liked most "pagans" (the woo woo new age kind) nor most "christians" (the because pastor said so types), I just see truth in ancient texts and in rituals of the present moment. Different languages for the same reality/deity. I believe in God, as I tell folks, but not necessarily what man says about God.
But along with you, Q's disturbing revelations about the death and sex cults of the cabal set me back on my heels and I've questioned not so much my own beliefs (garnered from the ancients) but definitely how I raise my kids. A godly grounding is imperative for us all in this world, regardless of the questions you may wrestle with later on.
I think the same evil that infected the church (vatican etc) infected other belief systems and ultimately drove unwary and unscrupulous people (natural searchers and seekers perhaps) into these cults.
I have started telling my kids stories on sundays from the bible and other inspired texts, until we can find a sunday church service we vibe with. So they have a foundation in faith.
I think all of us are rethinking our beliefs, practices, and associations since the institutions we thought we could trust are so rotten. It doesn't mean we need to throw out our own truths and loved experiences, just that we have to rethink where we get our truth.
God is real. God is goodness. God is Being itself. Everything else is just details.
Godspeed, fren. Namaste. Blessed be. We're all just walking each other HOME.
I really appreciated your post my fren.
So glad! Lots of good responses here
I am a Catholic, born and raised, and I echo your concerns about the leadership. However I will continue being a Christian forever, no matter what. I suggest you visit as many churches near you as you can, just to get a feel for them and the local leadership. All religions have good and less good local groups. In my opinion any of the Christian faiths would be great, just choose the one that fits you and yours best. Most places have great programs to get you started and up to speed, as that is one of the tasks of being a Christian, helping others to join the faith. I'm praying for you, congratulations for coming to this point of decision in your life. Good bless you.
I am spiritual Daoist. It's less about recognizing God than it is recognizing that natural laws of existence.
I recommend a brief foray into this philosophy to compare with Christianity. The core values are very similar, minus the burden of worship and services.
My husband and I really like Daoism and have been reading more about it lately. We are still curious about Christianity as well though.
Get yourself a KJV Bible (King James Version, not the NKJV but the KJV) and begin to get yourself immersed with our loving Creators' words who loves you so much that he took the form of man to die on the cross for you and your husband so you may have everlasting life if you give your soul and heart to Him.
Know what He promised, what He prophesied about and how they are all coming to fruition (in His time and in our time), and how you tie into His grand plans. Can't wait to see you on the other side!
You'll be interested to know that not everyone in the Catholic Church is willing to accept Pope Francis, who is sometimes regarded as the "False Pope" due to the manner in which he became pope. Normally, a Pope reigns until his death, but Pope Francis's predecessor Pope Benedict XVI resigned, the first to do so since the 15th Century. And yet, Pope Benedict XVI remains an influential Pope Emeritus, thus leading to an unusual situation of "Two Popes". This mirrors the current situation in the US where there are "Two Presidents" due to the election coup.
And just like how the people who are awake don't give a toss about Biden, so too do the awake within the Catholic Church try at best to ignore Pope Francis as if he were not pope. Indeed, if they do take notice of him, they end up feeling disgust at his decisions such as his bizarre (and possibly satanic) Nativity Scene, his acceptance of gay marriage, his Marxist leanings (in fact all of his predecessors of the past two centuries have condemned Communism), and so on. Yet there is a general feeling among the awake worshippers that the Church will one day be "retaken" from the corrupt leadership and restored to its former glory. Again, this is much like how we are feeling with the Presidency.
But enough about Church politics. I'd suggest your safest bet is to learn about Christianity with your best friends in the Catholic Church, because by doing so with you'd receive a strong foundation in Christianity no matter where you choose to go next. Note that when you do so you'll first be catechumens for about a year, i.e. people who are preparing themselves for a Christian baptism. In Christianity, "there is only one baptism for the forgiveness of sins": no matter the denomination, your baptism is your "membership" to Christianity under One Church (albeit divided by schisms throughout its long history), because the Church is ultimately subordinate to the God the Father (Creator), the Son (Christ the Redeemer) and the Holy Spirit (Giver of Life). Your relationship with God is therefore ultimately personal and not bound to any one denomination or church leader.
Despite the divides, the core beliefs are shared across denominations. In many ways they are like many families, sometimes squabbling, sometimes good friends, sometimes healthy or sometimes dealing with messy affairs, under the umbrella of Christ. Thus if you wish to look into other denominations after baptism you'd be okay to do so. Sometimes that may mean a period of initiation within that denomination before receiving Communion, but because you'd already be baptised you wouldn't need to be re-baptised.
Thank you my friend. Yes, my husband and I have been discussing this very issue - we like our friends a lot and we like the history and culture of Catholicism so it may be the place to start. The only concern we have is how do you keep children safe with the issue of so many pedos having infiltrated the church?
Not every priest is a pedo and it's perhaps less prevalent than you might be led to think by the media, both MSM and non-MSM. In saying so, child abuse does happen, and not only of the sexual nature. For example, I read some decades-old letters about a priest who used excessive physical violence to punish kids, and was promptly removed from his post. On the other hand, I know of priests who hold rather strong views against pedophilia, and are themselves aware of pedo priests as they are often privy to such things going on. Privy is the key word: they may not necessarily have any overt authority to act on the matter, and they must maintain confidentiality.
I'd say your best bet is to treat them as you would a teacher to your child, as that is ultimately who they are. For example ensure that your child's safety is never put at risk of being compromised. It is also important learn and observe who your priests are as people, as the priest-worshiper relationship should never be the only relationship at play.
Another thing is to keep in good contact with your community, especially with your friends, and discuss with them seriously about the issue of pedophilia within the Church. You might even want to talk directly with the parish priest, the parish secretary or other key persons in the parish about your concerns. Some may be uncomfortable with talking about child abuse but, in this day and age, it is a topic that must be brought up and addressed by members within the Church community lest it be consumed by that scourge. The key is that you talk about it.
Thank you my friend.
Probably best to find your own way. Grab a Bible go in open minded and come up with your own thoughts about it.
Churches are to religion as paytriots are to Q. The closer you get to unfiltered source, the more you will get from the experience.
Trust yourself.
First of all, let's all pray for them right now.
Next, I am a cradle Catholic. After Vat II I became disillusioned. The depth of spirituality was gone. I went seeking in eastern religions and after a couple of decades I had a rocky return to Catholicism. I asked too many questions and recognized too many pagan elements that crept into the church and essentially annoyed a lot of people. I believe the sacraments hold redemption.
However, if it's not for you, find some good evangelicals. Find people who will pray with you and over you. Find those who work in the mission fields of their own backyards.
May God show you His light and truth.