On writing about being Catholic and an invitation

[resqgeek]

Those of you who have followed my postings here over the last few years may recall the occasional entry in which I talk about the Catholic Church and my little place in it. I don't always agree with my Church, and at times I struggle to understand why I feel so strongly attached to it. I get frustrated and angry, frequently wonder if it is really worth it. Sometimes, I find moments of sublime inspiration, and they give me reason to continue the struggle.

There are a number of topics in this area that I've toyed with writing about. I think it would help me understand my own beliefs better to write them down, and I enjoy discussing these topics with others, as long as the conversations remain polite and respectful. But, because discussions about religion can easily become uncivil, I am reluctant to post my thoughts for the world to see. I'm thinking of creating a new filter to use for these entries, but I really don't know who I should include. I'm sure my thoughts on these topics will be of very little interest to some of you, so there's little reason to include you.

So, I'll put it out to you, my readers. If you are interested in reading my entries on this topic, please comment here. I'll add you to the filter so you can see the posts as I make them. I doubt that these posts will be terribly frequent, but it would be nice to have a place to write my thoughts and discuss these topics.

Comments

[florafloraflora.livejournal.com]

I'm Catholic and I often struggle with my place in the church myself. I'd love to read your posts.

[resqgeek]

I suspected you might be interested. :o)

[texaswren.livejournal.com]

I'd like to hear your thoughts. I'm not Catholic, and I"m not good at discussing theology, but I do like hearing about other people's faith. If I argue a point (don't hold your breath!), I promise to do it in a calm, respectful way.

[resqgeek]

Thanks. And, I'll be sure not to hold my breath...

:o)

[emperor-fool.livejournal.com]

I'm not religious at all, but I am interested in religion, and I like to think I'm respectful of those whose beliefs differ from my own (lack thereof). So, I'd be interested in reading about your experience, though I may or may not feel the desire or ability to comment on what you say. Which, I suppose, means it's up to you whether to include heathen ol' me or not. I'll still like you either way.

[resqgeek]

>>I'll still like you either way.<<

:o)

How can I say no now?

[skyring.livejournal.com]

I'm a frequent gratuitious blasphemer and heathen, but if you want to include me, that would be fine. I seem to get along just fine with people whose faith and politics are wildly different to mine. So long as your heart is in the right place, I'll love you anyway.

[resqgeek]

Much of what I might have to say might be considered heresy by some people, so who am I to exclude you?

[mojosmom.livejournal.com]

I would like to be in that filter. Although I am not a religious person myself, I find theological discussions very interesting, and it saddens me that many people cannot discuss these issues objectively. How someone struggles with and approaches matters of faith can say a lot about that person, and I can't imagine a friend not being interested.

[resqgeek]

>>I can't imagine a friend not being interested<<

Neither can I...

[buffra.livejournal.com]

I'd be interested.

Though I like to discuss (and even argue) such points, so if you need to stop doing that, just tell me you're done for the time being. I'll respect that.

[resqgeek]

A polite argument often helps me understand my position better (and sometimes even changes my mind), so I view it as a good thing. But I'll let you know if I need a break...

[buffra.livejournal.com]

Polite? Who you callin' polite?!

[resqgeek]

LOL!

[one4worldpeace.livejournal.com]

I have left the church I grew up in, and have really struggled with issues of faith, I am interested in hearing your thoughts and struggles and seeing how you progress on your journey, so feel free to add me.

[resqgeek]

I've added you.

[reggiesgirl2.livejournal.com]

I'm not Catholic but I always find it interesting to read about others' ideas on their church/religion. If you'll have me, I'd love to be included. I don't argue religion, ever. :)

[resqgeek]

Done.

[greedyreader.livejournal.com]

Being Catholic, I'd be interested to read what you had to say.

[resqgeek]

Okay.

[wubbarub.livejournal.com]

I would be interested in what you have to say on this topic, considering my own background :)

I may even post a couple of "polite discussion" points in the comments.

[resqgeek]

:o)

Given our history, I would have been disappointed if you hadn't been here.

[melydia.livejournal.com]

I'm interested. I was raised Catholic, and while now I could not even honestly claim to be Christian, Catholicism does hold a special place in my heart.

[resqgeek]

Done.

[benpj.livejournal.com]

polite schmoolite. i think you're just afraid of me. oh. wait. maybe i'm getting off on the wrong foot here. but you can add me; i might not always have time to read...

[resqgeek]

Heh. Way to try and stir the pot. :o)

[kiptrix.livejournal.com]

As a practicing Catholic, I'd be interested in your thread. I can't bear to read much of what is printed in the BC fora, since many comments are condescending as well as inaccurate.

[resqgeek]

I'm not always conventional in my beliefs or practices, but I try my best not to misrepresent official teaching or positions. And I also am open to correction when I make mistakes. Too bad others aren't willing to do the same...

[avanta7.livejournal.com]

Because my sole exposure to Catholicism has been attending one wedding Mass and three funeral Masses in my entire lifetime, I would be most interested in hearing your thoughts concerning your religious beliefs.

[resqgeek]

I'm happy to share, though, my thoughts and beliefs are not necessarily conventional or mainstream for my Church.

[whytraven.livejournal.com]

When I was in my twenties I was looking at converting to Catholicism, since I wanted to marry someone who was a Catholic (and um, thank God I didn't (marry him that is!) ;) I'm now gradually coming to accept myself as pagan, but I did enjoy my time in the Unitarian community (none even close to where I live now, alas) and am always interested in what makes people tick. Whether I have anything interesting to say remains to be seen, so it's your call.

[resqgeek]

I've added you.