To the Converts...

[Loki]

How long would you say it took you to convert?

Do you wish you'd have been "cradle Catholics?"

Would you say that the sentiment that one's adherence to Christianity or Catholicism is "not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, bu the encounter with an event, a person..."?

Did you have problems and doubts when you converted, or did those develop afterwards?

[JasonV]

I'm looking forward to a few replies on this one. Could prove quite interesting.

[Lel]

How long would you say it took you to convert?

Three years at a minimum (because that's about how long I've been seeking in earnest).

Do you wish you'd have been "cradle Catholics?"

I'm not sure. Honestly, I have no idea here.

Would you say that the sentiment that one's adherence to Christianity or Catholicism is "not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, bu the encounter with an event, a person..."?

The more I see, the more I live, the more I agree. It's all about the encounters in life that one adds together that shove me in the direction of Christ.

Did you have problems and doubts when you converted, or did those develop afterwards?

I'd be happy to have anything but doubts and problems! :swoon:

[~Karin~]

How long would you say it took you to convert?

almost three years of questioning.....

Do you wish you'd have been "cradle Catholics?"

Sometimes....especially when I encounter someone who comes from a positive Catholic upbringing...

Would you say that the sentiment that one's adherence to Christianity or Catholicism is "not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person..."?

my adherence has been a choice....a very difficult one that I haven't been able to fulfill

Did you have problems and doubts when you converted, or did those develop afterwards?

I've had problems before, during and after! Living in the South...no Catholics in my family....having been Baptist for 14 years and that doesn't even cover the doubts. I am now non-practicing but suppose I will always consider myself Catholic.

[Michie]

I'll be back later to answer.

[Caedmon]

How long would you say it took you to convert?
About 5 years. I had to wait to get away from anti-Catholic family.
Do you wish you'd have been "cradle Catholics?"
Yes and no. If I had been a cradle Catholic, I would have grown up with my faith, but if I hadn't been a convert, I might not appreciate my faith as much.
Would you say that the sentiment that one's adherence to Christianity or Catholicism is "not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, bu the encounter with an event, a person..."?
For me, it was both. I liked the teachings on family and daily life and such, as well as not wondering "Am I really saved?" every other day, but I also liked being close to a compassionate Christ and His Mother.
Did you have problems and doubts when you converted, or did those develop afterwards?
Before, I struggled with abstract things, like accepting Transubstantiation and the Assumption. Now I struggle with praxis, not giving in to certain sins, serving others in social justice, and whatnot.

[Loki]

Much thanks for the responses; just curious about processes that lead people to conversion.