Exccomunication - In Need Of Some Serious Advice

[Guest Al UK]

If possible I would like a priest to answer this:

I used to be a strong practicing Roman Catholic, several years ago, from an italian background.
Around 10 years ago I went through a phase of depression and turned away from my friends and family as well as the Catholic faith.

Being rather alone, I was eventually befriended by a group of Muslims, and over time, at my greatest moment of weakness, they encouraged me to 'become a muslim'. I 'converted' to Islam without really knowing why, and what the consequences of carrying out this action would mean in the eyes of the catholic church and its affect on my soul....

I never really felt my self as being a 'muslim' and it felt so wrong at the time. Five years ago, I broke all links with this group
of muslims and have had no dealings with the Muslim faith at all. Since then, I have been in a limbo.... lost....

In all sincerity, I have always, deep inside of me, throughout these 10 years always still thought of my self as being a Catholic.

I really want to be able to come back home into the family, and start being a true Catholic again.

Believe me, I feel so much shame in what I have done, and it has taken a lot out of me in being able to write this here now. I am ashamed as well as 'afraid' to approach my local church, and it's priests to seek help.

I have read, on the internet that what I have done is a serious act of apostacy, which I think has meant that I am automatically excommunicated from the church.

My not being part of the Catholic faith in Jesus Christ really troubles me deeply inside....

I just don't know why I committed this act.... But obviously I must accept full responsibility for it.

To make matters worse, since childhood I have always held an 'inner desire' for either entering the priesthood or joining an order, I have always held Saint Benedict close to my heart.

Have my actions forever barred me from this, if God wills?

Can someone here please advice me in regards exactly where I stand and what I need to do now ??

Most Sincerely In Christ Our Saviour

(AL)

[cappie]

Normally when someone "formally" leaves the Catholic Church what is required at least in Australia is a talk with a priest, Confession and a profession of the Creed.
Just recently I had a similar experience with a young woman who had "converted" to the Mormans. She had discussions with some of our RCIA team and was welcomed back to the Church by a public profession of faith.
Because you were baptised you cannot "unbaptise" yourself so you are always a Christian no one can take that away from you, but as you formally defected from the community you need to be formally reconciled with the community.

I would encourage you to speak with a priest who I would assume would greet you with kindness. You could also write to your local Bishop who would put you in touch with a priest who would help you.

[Pio Nono]

JMJ
6/11 - St. Barnabas

By the way, from those of us in the Peanut Gallery.....





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