From one recovering Catholic to another

Being raised Catholic is a double-edged sword. We're taught to value community, and personal growth, and to appreciate the miracles hidden in the mundane. We also have to face the history of abuse, colonization, and corruption intertwined in the church. I, like many of you, left religion behind. I saw how bigoted and ignorant the people in my congregation were. The internalized Homophobia & misogyny radiated out of my “catholic” brothers and sisters. 

Most of my teenage years, I was a staunch anti-theist, which is a common reaction to being brought up in this environment. I loved the critical lens I developed but still craved something spiritual.

I loved parts of Catholicism: the ritual, the ceremony, the mysticism woven into our traditions all called to me. I knew I had to reclaim them. I worked to deconstruct the catechism, relearning the theology backing the religion from a discerning and academic lens. I placed the faith in context, found the beauty in its messy history, and allowed non-canonical sources to paint a holistic picture.

Not everyone is required to reach that same conclusion. I'm certainly not encouraging you to return to faithful mass attendance. Nor do I think reclaiming catholicism is to be undertaken lightly. 

If this experience sounds familiar, if my journey resonates with you - know there is a way to make your own peace. 

If you're needing help finding your way, our spiritual consultations, a library of resources, and deconstructionist classes can help you! If there's a will, we will damn sure find a way to develop a fulfilling and sustainable spiritual practice for YOU.