Feeling Resentment?!?

[Giuseppe Gavino]

Originally Posted by FightForFaith

I am newly Confirmed and so proud of my faith! I have very close friends who are non-denominational Christians. I think it's great that we are Christian sisters. However, as I have recently been exploring more and more about Christ's Church and the beliefs of His Church, I have been feeling more and more tension towards my friends. It is obvious where we disagree on things. For example, my friends have said that we shouldn't have to "report" our sins to a priest. They also have said that Catholics added things to the Bible and the age-old accusation of worshiping Mary.

It has never got outwardly tense, but in my heart I can feel myself becoming resentful. I don't want to feel this way! But it feels like they are trying to lead ME to "the truth" by inviting me to Campus Crusade for Christ meetings, and I feel like I already know the truth because I am part of His Church that HE created. Part of me feels like it's a "I'm right, they're wrong" situation. I know it shouldn't be that way, and I know there are many things that we probably agree on.

How can I stop feeling so resentful towards their difference of beliefs and how can I present my beliefs in a calm, respectful manner? How do I explain certain things to them, such as why we ask Mary to pray for us, or why we believe Maccabees, etc. are sacred scripture? I'm really starting to feel frustrated!

God Bless

Welcome home!

First, I would try to be patient with your friends. Most of the time they're just saying these things because they're concerned and want the best for you. Secondly I would tell them you haven't found any evidence supporting their accusations, but that you're open to any evidence they can find from the Catholic Church which supports their claims.

Lastly rejoice! Christ was persecuted for His faith and so the same must be true for you. Asking Him for the grace to get past this with faith, hope, and charity should be the key thing in your prayers. Nothing brings Christians back home to the true Church like a Catholic that actually lives their faith.