Frequently Asked Questions Continued
What is a Holy Day of Obligation?
This is a day when Catholics are obliged to go to Mass. This is because it is a special day which often celebrates an important feast. Every Sunday is a Holy Day of Obligation. In addition there is Christmas Day, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (29th June), the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (15th August), and All Saints (1st November).
What is prayer?
Prayer is simply talking and listening to God. We can use set words, such as in a prayer book, or make up our own. We can and should pray both in private and also as part of a worshipping community in a church. As well as asking for things, we should also use prayers of praise for God, and prayers of thanks for all the blessings he has given us.
How do I become Catholic?
Ask for God’s guidance. Make time in your day for private prayer, which is about speaking and listening to God. It doesn't have to be a long time - 5 minutes is fine - but the key thing is to try to do it every day.
Come to Mass. The Mass is the central act of worship for Catholics and is a vital part of our community prayer. You may find it confusing to begin with but over time you will understand better what is going on.
Come along for coffee which is served in the Parish Centre after most weekend Masses at St Mary's. You can take the opportunity to introduce yourself to some of the people there and perhaps ask some of the questions that are puzzling you.
There is a rack at the back of St Mary's church with an assortment of booklets relating to the Catholic Faith. In particular you might find the Simple Prayer Book helpful, both for private prayer and for the prayers in the Mass.
Read the Bible. Concentrate initially on Part Two (the New Testament) and read one of the gospels. The Gospel of St Mark is the shortest. This will help you to get to know more about Jesus. But it is important to remember that the Jesus who walked the roads of Galilee two thousand years ago is a living person now, God the Son, who we can talk to every day in our prayers and who will help us in our lives now, if we want him to.
Come along to a programme such as the Journey in Faith programme described in the Discover More page of this website.
If you have any Catholic friends, discuss your questions with them. If they don't know the answers they may know someone who does.
Have a look at the Catholic Enquiry Office website: www.life4seekers.co.uk
