I was ordained in Australia in 1980 and again in the UK in 2002. 

I have ministered internationally for over 40 years, having a Bachelor of Pastoral Counselling and Theology and a Master of Arts in Counselling and Professional Development. BACP Life Coaching Certificate. 

AND NOW.. I am Almost a Catholic!

I have been exploring Catholicism for some years now and have decided to convert after completing the RCIA course. 

In this article, I share some of the difficulties I have encountered as I transition to and convert to the Roman Catholic Church.

Changing one’s faith tradition is a profound and often challenging process that can bring about a range of stresses—emotional, social, and spiritual. Whether transitioning from one religious tradition to another or undergoing a more fundamental shift in one’s beliefs, the journey of changing faith is deeply personal and can be accompanied by complex stressors.

Emotional Turmoil

Changing faith often involves reassessing one’s core beliefs and values. This reflective process can trigger a range of emotions, including doubt, confusion, and grief.

The emotional ties to one’s previous faith and the uncertainty of the new path can create emotional turmoil. Coping with these intense feelings requires self-compassion, patience, and often support from understanding friends, family, or spiritual mentors.

 Social Isolation

Faith is often intertwined with community, and changing one’s faith may result in social isolation. Friends and family members who share the previous religious affiliation may need help understanding or accepting the change. This isolation can be emotionally taxing, requiring individuals to seek new communities or find ways to bridge the gap between their old and new social circles.

Identity Crisis

Faith can be a significant aspect of one’s identity. Changing faith may prompt a reassessment of personal identity, leading to feelings of uncertainty and an identity crisis.

You may grapple with self-discovery questions as you seek to understand who you are beyond the framework of your former faith. Integrating newfound beliefs into a coherent sense of self requires introspection and self-reflection.

Spiritual Uncertainty

Transitioning between faiths often involves navigating periods of spiritual uncertainty. I questioned my relationship with God, the purpose of my spiritual journey, and the meaning of existence. This uncertainty can be disorienting and may require a patient to explore different spiritual practices, philosophies, or seek guidance from spiritual mentors. 

Many years ago, I began reading Church history and learned that the Catholic Church was the very first Church, so, in time, I drew much closer to God, deepening my relationship with him.

Religious Trauma

In some cases, changing faith may be accompanied by experiences of religious trauma, especially if the departure from one’s previous faith was challenging or traumatic. 

Deconstructing and reconciling past religious teachings can be exciting but emotionally and psychologically distressing. Seeking therapeutic support can be crucial in addressing and healing from religious trauma.

Challenges in Relationships

The shift in religious beliefs can strain relationships, particularly with close family members and friends who may have different perspectives. 

Open and honest communication is essential, but it may take time for others to adjust and understand the reasons behind the change. They may resent the change and try to talk you out of it. Navigating these challenges requires patience, empathy, and a commitment to maintaining meaningful connections.

Cultural and Ritual Adjustments

Changing faith may also involve adapting to new cultural and ritual practices. Embracing or reconciling with unfamiliar traditions can be enriching, challenging, and stressful. 

You may, as I have, grapple with a sense of cultural displacement or a loss of familiar rituals, requiring a delicate balance between honouring the past and embracing the new.

Fear of Judgment

The fear of judgment from others, both within and outside the new faith community, can be a significant source of stress. Overcoming this fear involves cultivating self-acceptance and resilience and recognising that each person’s spiritual journey is unique.

I have found, and you may as well, that the stresses of changing faith are intricate and multifaceted, encompassing emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. Navigating this transformative journey requires self-reflection, patience, and a supportive community. 

You may seek guidance from spiritual mentors and engage in open dialogue. Prioritise self-care, which can contribute to a more resilient and fulfilling experience of changing faith.

If you are struggling to find non-judgmental advice or support, please feel free to contact me. If you are grieving and need to talk or seek spiritual help, drop me an email to chat with me.

In the comments section, I would love for you to share your faith stories and comments with this community.

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I’m Paula Rose Parish — a former atheist of 21 years, Protestant pastor for over 40 years, and now a Catholic convert. After a powerful encounter where Jesus audibly called me to follow Him, my life was forever changed. I’ve ministered across Australia, the USA, and the UK, and today, I share my journey of faith, hope, and transformation.

This is a place for seekers, converts, reverts, and the curious. Here, you’ll find honest conversations about Catholicism, personal testimony, theological insight, and encouragement for those walking toward (or wondering about) the Catholic Church.

🕊️ From Atheism to Faith. From Pastor to Catholic.

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Contact by Email: paularoseparish@gmail.com

If you are struggling to find non-judgmental advice or support, please feel free to contact me. If you are grieving and need to talk or seek spiritual help, drop me an email to chat with me.

In the comments section, I would love for you to share your faith stories and comments with this community.

We seek to foster a sense of community. All blog posts are here for your encouragement and to share with others. You will find various topics relevant to faith and wellness in everyday life.

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